Both people and pets are taking advantage of the warm weather.
BANGOR, Maine — Spring has sprung in Bangor, and so has outdoor dining. People and their pets come to enjoy the fresh air and support local businesses.
On Friday afternoon, Darby St. George and a 28-year-old macaw named Fat Chicken dined downtown.
“If I have a chance to go out, I can and I'll take him with me,” St. George said.
Since most restaurants have animal restrictions, outdoor dining is the only way they can eat out together.
“If he's not going, I'm not going,” St. George said.
Dining options are limited, but now that the outdoor patio is open, St. George is relishing the chance to get Fat Chicken to-go.
“It's so much better than being at home, right? You meet new people. It's always an adventure with Fat Chicken. Everyone wants to meet him, take pictures and talk to him,” St. George said. Told.
The change of seasons brings more people like St. George out to eat, which boosts business for local restaurants.
“Here in Maine, we all have cabin fever, but as soon as it gets a little colder and clearer, we're out and about,” said John Dobbs, owner of Paddy Murphy's.
That's why Dobbs decided to open a patio at Paddy Murphy's this season.
“It's going to bring in more people. I also think it's going to bring in more people throughout downtown, so I think it's great to have outdoor patios in every possible location,” Dobbs said. said.
Dobbs said outdoor dining is great for his business. Outdoor dining also benefits the city as a whole, according to Anne Krieg, Bangor's development director.
“I think it's really good for people driving by and walking by to see the activity outside,” Krieg said. “I think this will help all businesses because it shows that this is a place that people want to be.”
Krieg also talked about how outdoor dining brings people together.
“People want to get out and enjoy being with friends and family, and just being able to sit outside in this great space and eat a good meal and hang out.” she said.
As the weather warms up in Bangor, businesses say they expect more foot traffic.
