Since i am lucky enough to live in the West End, I have certain advantages not available to those who reside in less fabulous areas of Portland (or even-- gasp!-- in the wilds of South Portland or environs). These advantages include Caiola's; the convenient proximity of Fresh Approach and Cumberland Farms for last-minute purchases; and most importantly, the OhNo! Cafe.

All of the food at the OhNo! is fresh, delicious, and affordable. Chris, the owner, is a great guy who is always coming up with new recipes to wow our tastebuds. I have to admit, though, since I am a terribly boring creature of habit, especially when it comes to breakfast, that I almost always get the same thing: the Number One!.

This is a sublime combination; the maple syrup and the tabasco balance each other perfectly, and the prosciutto's salty porky goodness brings the two together. The only change that I make is substituting a bialy for the bagel; the onions and poppy seeds are a nice addition (the "default" bagel is plain).

Lunches and dinners at the OhNo! are great too-- I am a devotee of the BBQ pork sandwich, while Otis loves the crab cake sandwich-- and there's always a few yum specials chalked on the board.

However, to my mind, breakfast is where it's at-- at least, if you've never checked out the OhNo! before I'd start with that. Don't worry, non-locals are welcome too. While you're waiting for your meal, check out the rental and real estate listings!

Here's the digits:
87 Brackett Street
Portland, ME 04102
(corner of Gray & Brackett)
(207) 774-0773