Month: January 2025

When winter’s chill envelops Portland, Maine, The Press Hotel transforms into a haven of warmth and comfort, offering guests an inviting retreat from the frosty outdoors. Housed in the historic Gannett Building, once the headquarters of the Portland Press Herald, the hotel seamlessly blends its rich journalistic heritage with modern luxury, creating an atmosphere that’s both nostalgic and contemporary.

Cozy Corners to Unwind

Upon entering The Press Hotel, guests are greeted by a lobby that serves as the heart of the establishment. Here, one can find plush seating arrangements perfect for curling up with a good book or engaging in thoughtful conversation. The lobby’s design pays homage to its newspaper past, featuring vintage typewriters and artistic nods to typesetting, providing a unique backdrop for relaxation.

For those seeking a more intimate setting, the hotel’s lower level art gallery offers a tranquil space adorned with works from local Maine artists. This serene environment provides an ideal spot to reflect, read, or simply enjoy the curated art pieces that celebrate the region’s creative spirit.

Fireside Reads and Literary Inspiration

The Press Hotel’s dedication to its literary roots makes it a paradise for book lovers. Throughout the property, guests will discover quotes from Maine writers and typewriter-themed décor, creating an ambiance that inspires reading and reflection. The lobby’s hearth, accompanied by comfortable seating, invites guests to lose themselves in a novel while basking in the warmth of the fire.

Each guestroom is thoughtfully designed to resemble a 1920s writer’s office, complete with a vintage-styled journalist desk and playful newsroom references. This unique design encourages guests to indulge in their literary pursuits, whether it’s penning their own stories or diving into a classic book.

Luxurious Accommodations for Winter Comfort

The rooms and suites at The Press Hotel are meticulously appointed to provide maximum comfort during the colder months. Plush Frette™ bed linens and Cuddledown® comforters ensure a restful night’s sleep, while spacious bathrooms, some featuring deep soaking tubs, offer a sanctuary for relaxation after a day spent exploring Portland’s snowy streets.

For an elevated experience, the Penthouse Suite, boasts ten-foot-tall ceilings and a private rooftop patio with panoramic city views. Authentic touches, such as a Royal typewriter circa 1925, add to the suite’s charm, making it a perfect retreat for those seeking both luxury and inspiration.

Culinary Delights at UNION Restaurant

No winter stay at The Press Hotel is complete without dining at UNION, the hotel’s on-site restaurant. Dedicated to sourcing the finest sustainable and local New England ingredients, UNION offers a menu that reflects the bounty of Maine’s oceans, streams, gardens, and fields. From hearty soups to indulgent seafood dishes, each meal is a celebration of the region’s culinary heritage.

The cozy ambiance of UNION, combined with its mindful culinary offerings, makes it an ideal dining destination during the winter months. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet breakfast to start your day or a sumptuous dinner to conclude it, UNION provides a dining experience that’s both comforting and memorable.

Exploring Portland’s Winter Charms

The Press Hotel’s prime location in the Old Port District allows guests to easily explore Portland’s winter attractions. A brisk walk along the Eastern Promenade offers refreshing ocean views, while nearby boutiques and galleries provide opportunities to discover local crafts and artworks. After a day of exploration, returning to the hotel’s warm and inviting atmosphere feels like coming home.

Plan Your Winter Escape

This winter, embrace the season’s serenity by planning a stay at The Press Hotel. With its cozy corners, fireside settings, and literary-inspired ambiance, it offers a retreat that’s both relaxing and invigorating. Whether you’re seeking a quiet getaway to immerse yourself in books or a luxurious base to explore Portland’s winter wonders, The Press Hotel provides an experience that’s truly beyond words. Book your stay now!

As winter settles over Portland, Maine, there’s no better way to embrace the season than by enjoying a cozy meal at UNION Restaurant, located within the iconic Press Hotel. A cornerstone of the city’s culinary scene, UNION offers a dining experience that blends seasonal ingredients with the warmth and hospitality of New England.

The Press Hotel: A Winter Haven

The Press Hotel, once home to the Portland Press Herald, provides a unique and inviting atmosphere for locals and travelers alike. Its rich history, evident in every corner of the property, adds an extra layer of charm to winter visits. From the artful lobby to the thoughtfully designed rooms, The Press Hotel captures Portland’s creative spirit while offering a cozy refuge from the cold. Within this remarkable setting lies UNION, a restaurant that’s equally inspiring.

Winter at UNION: A Celebration of Maine’s Bounty

Starters: A Warm Welcome

Begin your dining experience with the Heritage Squash Bisque, a velvety soup garnished with pecans, crème fraîche, and a drizzle of olive oil, encapsulating the rich flavors of winter squash.

For a taste of the sea, the 1/2 Dozen Maine Oysters served with crab apple, sea lettuce, and lemon provide a refreshing start, highlighting the freshness of Maine’s coastal offerings.

Entrées: Hearty Winter Fare

The Steelhead Trout is a standout, accompanied by beetroot, horseradish, spigarello, butternut squash, and lentils, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that celebrate the season’s produce.

For pasta enthusiasts, the Mushroom Campanelle features oyster mushrooms, tomato, basil, and grana padano, offering a comforting and earthy dish that warms the soul.

Meat lovers might opt for the Tenderloin, paired with potato, carrot, and béarnaise sauce, delivering a classic and satisfying meal perfect for a chilly evening.

Sides: Complementing the Meal

Enhance your entrée with sides like the Brussels Sprouts tossed in lemon aioli and walnuts, or the Hand-Cut Fries accompanied by UNION’s signature sauce.

Desserts: Sweet Conclusions

Conclude your meal with the Flourless Chocolate Torte, accented by a blueberry coulis, offering a rich and indulgent treat.

Alternatively, the Pumpkin Cheesecake drizzled with pumpkin caramel and topped with roasted hazelnuts provides a seasonal and delightful end to your dining experience.

A Dining Experience Beyond the Plate

What sets UNION apart is more than its dishes—it’s the experience as a whole. The open kitchen invites diners to feel connected to the artistry of the chefs, while the restaurant’s warm and modern design ensures a relaxing ambiance. UNION isn’t just a place to eat; it’s a space where stories are shared, moments are created, and winter becomes a little more magical.

The Perfect Winter Pairing

Winter dining at UNION is elevated by its exceptional beverage offerings. From creative cocktails to locally crafted beers and a thoughtfully curated wine list, there’s something to complement every dish. Sip on a spiced pear martini for a festive touch or savor a bold red wine alongside a hearty meal.

Your Winter Retreat Awaits

UNION at The Press Hotel offers more than just a meal; it provides an experience that embodies the heart of Portland in winter. Whether you’re a guest of the hotel or simply seeking a memorable dining escape, UNION’s combination of seasonal flavors, warm hospitality, and historic surroundings makes it a must-visit destination.

This winter, step inside from Portland’s snow-covered streets and let UNION Restaurant transport you through a culinary journey that’s both comforting and inspiring. Reserve your table now!