Archive for April, 2025

Incoming: New JAR Locations, Same Energy by Erika Morrotta

Posted on: April 17th, 2025 by Erika Morotta No Comments

Incoming: New JAR Locations, Same Energy

Berwick and Wiscasset, we’re coming your way.


🌿 Maine-Owned, Maine-Grown

JAR was founded by Mainers—and we’re still owned and operated by the same local team today. We live here, work here, raise families here, and spend every season out in the elements, doing what we love. Snowboarding, skiing, hiking, running, swimming, fishing, and enjoying the kinds of landscapes that make this state so special.

That connection to place is what drives how we grow. Our expansion isn’t about getting wide—it’s about thoughtful growth in towns that reflect what we’re all about: access to the outdoors, a strong sense of community, and a shared belief that cannabis can support overall wellness.

That’s why we’re so excited to bring JAR to Berwick and Wiscasset—two very different regions, but each offering their own kind of quintessential Maine lifestyle.


🌱 The JAR Ethos

At JAR Co., we’re committed to creating the highest-quality cannabis products we can—safe, effective, and responsibly sourced. But what truly sets us apart is the way we show up.

Our ethos is rooted in:

  • Wellness – We believe cannabis can be a tool for rest, recovery, and balance
  • Integrity – From cultivation to customer service, we prioritize honesty, transparency, and consistency
  • Hard Work – Our team puts in the effort to do things the right way, not the fast way
  • Community – Job creation, local partnerships, and meaningful contributions to the places we call home

We’re intentional in how we grow—always asking: Can we bring something of value here? Will this benefit the community? Can we be a good neighbor?


✨ What Makes a JAR Store Feel Like JAR

Whether you’re stepping into our flagship medical store in Windham or one of our newest recreational shops, there’s a familiar feel you’ll notice right away. Our spaces are designed to reflect the regions they’re in, while maintaining a clear throughline of JAR character.

The Look + Feel

Each store blends natural textures with intentional design:

  • Exposed post-and-beam architecture, both inside and out
  • Custom walnut displays and countertops that add warmth and depth
  • An accent wall of white birch trees in every shop
  • Pops of JAR Co. green on surrounding walls
  • Design elements that reflect each store’s surroundings—whether that’s near the coast, close to the mountains, or next to Maine’s beautiful lakes

The result? A space that feels local, calming, and quietly elevated.

The Experience

From the moment you walk in, you’re met with real people who are passionate about the plant—and meeting you where you’re at. Whether you’re a seasoned consumer or just starting to explore, we’ll take the time to make you feel welcome, not overwhelmed.

The Perks

We like to show love to our regulars and community members. Here’s what you’ll find across JAR stores:

  • Daily deals on a rotating selection of products
  • Loyalty rewards every time you shop
  • Discounts for locals, Maine cannabis employees, med card holders, veterans, and first responders
  • Seasonal events, small-batch releases, and pop-ups with our favorite Maine makers

Whether you’re popping in for a quick visit or making it part of your weekend routine, we’re here to make it a little more worthwhile.

The Energy

At every JAR location, you’ll feel the same down-to-earth, welcoming vibe. We keep things approachable and intentional—focusing on real connection, helpful guidance, and a calm, grounded environment. Our team brings warmth and enthusiasm to the space, and we aim to make every customer feel like they belong, no matter their experience level.


📍 Next Stops: Berwick + Wiscasset

We can’t wait to welcome you into our new spaces. Each one brings something fresh to the table, while staying grounded in everything we believe in. Same energy. Same standards. Same JAR. Stay tuned for more details on the openings of these two new JAR locations.

 

Favorite Local Eats Near JAR Eliot by Sam Gadomski

Posted on: April 6th, 2025 by Erika Morotta No Comments

It’s no shock—cannabis enthusiasts and foodies are often one and the same.
 As a daily cannabis user and someone who works in retail cannabis, I need food that checks all the boxes: quality, experience, and top-notch customer service. Whether you’re craving Indian, Chinese, Thai, Vietnamese, South American, Cuban, Italian—or just on the hunt for some of the finest fried seafood and lobster rolls the world has to offer—the greater Eliot / Berwick area delivers.


Here are a few of my personal go-to spots that never disappoint:

Lee Frank’s – South Berwick, ME
www.leefranks.com
Specializing in smash-burgers and hot dogs, this local joint is sure to satisfy your craving for something greasy and delicious. Don’t skip the house sauce, onion rings, and a milkshake to round out your meal. ($)

La Festa Pizzeria – Dover, NH
www.lafestabrickandbrew.com
Looking for the finest brick-oven pizza on the Seacoast? Look no further. Dine-in for the best experience. They serve pizza by the slice, and I highly recommend grabbing a slice of the “White Buffalo” and some garlic knots. ($)

Stoneface Brewing – Newington, NH
www.stonefacebrewing.com
NEIPA lovers, rejoice. This spot often features live music and trivia, plus they offer packs and cases to go. Their full menu is reasonably priced, but the standout item is the confit-then-deep-fried chicken wings (ask for them extra crispy). You won’t be disappointed. ($)

Nikki’s Banh Mi – Portsmouth, NH
www.nikkisbanhmi.com
Fresh, fast, and fairly priced. Outside of Vietnam, this is the best and freshest banh mi I’ve found. The Bulgogi Beef is excellent, but the classic Korean BBQ banh mi is the staple—and my personal favorite. ($)

Bennett’s Sandwich Shop – Portsmouth, NH
www.bennettssandwichshop.com
With four great locations, Bennett’s serves up sandwiches on freshly baked Italian bread. I always go for the house Italian with hots. Don’t sleep on their chicken tenders and fries either—they’re seriously good. ($)

Lil’s Cafe – Kittery, ME
www.lilscafe.com
Need a morning pick-me-up? Look no further. Their coffee is excellent, and their breakfast sandwiches come on house-made biscuits, bagels, or bread. The Maine Maple Crullers are hands down the best donuts in the world. Get there before 9 a.m. to grab a loaf of their homemade sourdough—it might just be the best sourdough you’ve ever had. (Lines can get long!) ($$)

The Black Birch – Kittery, ME
www.theblackbirch.com
Charming and cozy, this spot is worth the wait (they don’t take reservations or call-aheads). Their hand-crafted cocktails are stellar, and the local beer selection is well-curated. I recommend the fish and chips—but do yourself a favor and order every variety of deviled eggs on the menu. Yes, they’re that good—better than the ones your grandma used to bring to Easter. ($$+)

Bob’s Clam Hut – Kittery, ME
www.bobsclamhut.com
In my (totally biased) opinion, this is the best fried seafood spot in all of Maine and New Hampshire. As a local who grew up in the Seacoast area, I’ve tried them all—and Bob’s wins. The lobster roll is packed, and the fried clams with their house-made tartar sauce will have you ordering a second round to-go. Just be warned: the line in summer can get long. ($$+)

Green Leaves Chinese – York, ME
www.greenleavesrestaurant.com
This place is owned by some of the nicest people, and the food consistently hits the mark. Their mixed drinks? Potent. They’re quick and efficient with takeout, and there’s usually plenty of seating. Their sushi is great, but if you’re going out for Chinese and don’t order a poo-poo platter for two… are you even doing it right? ($$+)

Ristorante Massimo – Portsmouth, NH
www.ristorantemassimo.com
Need a spot to impress on date night? This elevated Italian restaurant has three unique dining rooms, but my top pick is the “fireplace table” downstairs—request it when you book! While it can get pricey, the quality is unmatched. Homemade pasta, rich flavors, and generous half-portion options if you’re not ready to commit to a full plate. Reservations are a must. ($$$)


Though this list just scratches the surface of all the incredible food the greater Eliot / Berwick area has to offer, it’s an excellent place to start. There are solid options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner across all price points. Portsmouth, Dover, Kittery, and York in particular are loaded with restaurants that represent flavors from around the world.

So next time you’re in Eliot or Berwick stocking up at your favorite JAR location, take the opportunity to treat yourself—and maybe someone else—to something delicious nearby.

Cheers to full bellies and stoned minds 😎

Written by Sam Gadomski

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