Local Sprouts Cooperative

Reviews 9

A

Anonymous User

September 10th, 2011 - I am ashamed for having previously thought (my assumptions based entirely on their website and not at all on an actual experience or even second-hand information) that Local Sprouts was a pretentious hipster joint. It isn’t at all – it’s actually everything I personally stand for. Locally-sourced foods, thoughtfully crafted, and joyously/graciously served. Our service was impeccable (never have I met a more knowledgeable, patient, and kind cashier at a restaurant before), the food was phenomenal (despite the bizarreness of flavor profiles combined on our plates, they really did go exceptionally well together: I had the "sprouts bowl" which was a third beans,a third rice, a third grilled veggies topped with greens, sprouts, and shredded beets with grilled tempeh and a side of tahini-miso sauce. Chaotic sounding, yes. Delicious, even more so. My partner had the vegan tacos and I had to remind him - like he was a little kid - multiple times to slow down, because he was eating so fast and furiously. Musta been delicious! But I wouldnt know because I wasnt getting my fingers near him for fear of losing one. We also had some of the best dessert of our lives - YOU MUST TRYE THE LOVE COOKIE AND PUMPKIN TOPS. Just lovely.), the atmosphere was comfortable and welcoming (warm tones, intimate setting, filled with friends laughing and loving). I wish I had put my pride aside sooner, because this is a gem of a place and somewhere I think Id like to call a gastronimcal home of sorts. I foresee this becoming one of my new favorite eats. DIRECTIONS: Go here. Support Maines agriculture and arts scene. Eat well. Feel good. Repeat.

---

CA

Cate Jackson

TL;DR: This place is amazing and I cant wait to come back. Im in love with this place. Passed through while visiting Portland on a friends recommendation. I have a ridiculously strict medical diet that doesnt allow me to eat gluten, soy, sugars, grains, fruit, dairy, etc. Basically, I live off of clean meats and vegetables. I cant even have most oils. When I go out to eat, Im the bane of every servers existence, for good reason. Walking into Local Sprouts, I immediately felt at home. The person who waited on me at the counter was lovely and accommodating (and has what reminded me of a Padawan braid, but I didnt want to be that person) and, along with their coworker, made sure that I wouldnt get sick from what was prepared. Not only that, it was one of the best meals Ive had in I honestly cant remember how long. My simple sautéed vegetables with light seasoning and lemon pepper chicken were delicious and satisfying and I dont feel like Im about to die having eaten it. I also have fairly radical politics and I really like dark, vaguely creepy art. The fact that Local Sprouts is worker-owned and goes out of its way to accommodate everyone they can makes me incredibly happy. The paintings for sale on the wall, by Stephen Lavellee, are beautiful and ominous and evocative. If I wasnt traveling, Id be going home with at least one of them. So, go here and eat delicious things and support an awesome community.

---

CH

Christopher Pagli

I went for the first time this past Sunday and had a great time. To my surprise there was a folk band playing and music enthusiasts kicking back enjoying song and a meal. We ordered the Veggie burger which was good but I felt it need more substance. It was a little thin compared to the over-sized English muffin it comes on. I hate to use the "wheres the beef" line but we need a little more. The staff is really welcoming and friendly. If you have little kids youll be happy to know there is a kids corner complete with toys and books (even a changing table in the bathroom)! The perfect place for organic, local, fair-trade, music, and great vibes. Heres my tip, fill your pockets with the Mexcian Chocolate Biscotti (after paying for them of course). They are incredible and have a little bit of a kick to them. The prefect balance of flavored sea salt, spice, and of course, chocolate. In fact, Im walking over there right now to buy a few.

---

TR

Trevor Knott

We went here for lunch with my family (all adults) and I was initially sceptical of the kids area and thinking that there would be a ton of kids running around this restaurant. That was not the case, the kids area is to keep kids occupied but its not like a Portland attraction for kids. With that settled... the restaurant was fantastic. All the foods are local and I mean ALL. The map on the wall shows where all the food and drinks are from. Staff was friendly and wanting to help. I got the pancake with maple syrup, berry compote, earth butter and sausage patty. My food was delicious as was everyone elses. I would recommend this restaurant.

---

JO

Joshua Nagine

Fantastic menu with great vegetarian and vegan options. Everything on the menu comes from Maine. Service is quick and the food is great! The vegan mac & cheese is fantastic!!! A few notes for the unfamiliar. You order at the counter and sit where you want. If its busy, you may have to wait for a seat. Also, its very informal and the seating can be European style (dont expect to take up a whole table if you are alone). Its very close to the Maine College of Art, so you may encounter some starving artists who are not ordering food, but I think it adds to the ambience and authenticity.

---

ME

Megan Bord

This place was terrific! We were looking for something that had local, organic and vegan options in a laid-back atmosphere. Local Sprouts nailed it from start to finish. The ambience was totally "community" and welcoming, and the food was fantastic. They served my Moon Burger with some quinoa-type "salad" on the side that was out of this world. My boyfriend and I kept looking at each other with big eyes, as in, "Can you believe how delicious this is?" Best part: while we were there, a belly dancing troupe performed. So much fun! I cant wait to go back.

---

AS

Ashley Schmid

One of my favorite places in portland to eat. Food is fresh, healthy and local and the ambiance is friendly and cozy. This is a stellar place to meet with friends or have a coffee and get some work done. If you go for dinner there is a good chance there will be music (sometimes good, sometimes not). If you want to have an quiet conversation over dinner this might not be the right place depending on the night. In my opinion always the right choice for breakfast and lunch. Gluten free and vegan options here!

---

MO

Morgyn Danae

Since it opened several years ago, Local Sprouts has been my favorite eating/hangout establishment in Portland, Maine. From its mellow, always welcoming vibe to the delicious, healthy, often locally sourced food and drink and great local live music, I always leave satisfied and impressed. It is founded in heart- based political activism that promotes loving, responsible community. I wish them continued success. Thanks for making Portland and the world a better place!

---

A

Anonymous User

The first time I went in, I ordered a burger and they accidentally added cheese. When I got it back the second time, the bread was moldy. They apologized and gave me a coupon for a free sandwich (since I had already paid). When I finally got my sandwich it was amazing! Great concept and delicious food, but I think they need faster service to really work as a restaurant in portland. You pay the price for local food, but its worth it.

---

---

Other organizations