Maine: The Way Life Used To Be

Scarborough (and the old spelling “Scarboro”) is my favorite Maine town and I love to share my collection of old images.  Here is a vintage photo postcard of Valle’s Inn, postmarked 1953. On the back: “Valle’s Inn on route 1 at Scarboro, is Maine’s most popular dining spot. Known throughout New England for its fine food and pleasing atmosphere. Typically New England in design and menu, with a background of talented entertainment for your dining pleasure.”

Let’s take a closer look at the offerings! Modern rooms, $1.50! The Three Suns were playing that Friday. Steaks and chops, mm!

I lament the death of the “cocktail lounges,” not because of the drinking but it’s a throwback to when people would show up for a drink dressed up in something spiffier than jeans.

For your pleasure, I present a video of The Three Suns!

Today my husband and I had lunch at Anjon’s in Scarborough. I honestly have driven past it hundreds of times over the years on my way to someplace and thought “I should go sometime” but never did. 2009 is about following through on those quiet wishes for “one day.”

I like the marsh view (and my husband is always calling it “the swamp”) and it was very clean inside. I always check for cleanliness once I’m seated and I didn’t see a hint of any crumbs, grease, food, nothing. Honestly it was sparkling. I had the Fettuccine Alfredo and my husband had baked haddock. Both were great, but the best part is the tomato sauce, or so I hear and will soon find out.

Anjon’s has been in Scarborough since 1957 which gives it retro cred to me. I hope to check out all of the local places to eat that originated prior to 1970. On our way out we bought a jar of their award-winning sauce (it won best of something in a nationwide challenge.) A man ahead of us had purchased a dozen jars and raved about how good it is. What I like is that they are low sodium and have NO added sugar! Try and find a no sugar sauce at the supermarket! 99% are loaded with it. Also, when I asked if an old Italian lady made the sauce I was told that it’s actually an older man, “Rocco” who makes the sauce from the 75 year old recipe “upstairs.” All  can picture is a happy fellow standing over a large pot of sauce, stirring and making a kissing gesture with his hand on his mouth when he tastes it. I can’t wait to try it!

I like that there are still businesses doing things the way they did back in the day while still keeping with the times- they do sell their sauces online!

1/23 Update: I had the sauce last night over pasta for dinner and it is fabulous! It’s very flavorful and the texture is just right.