Matt Chappell is the owner of Gather in Yarmouth, Maine, and we had a chat with him recently about the food and other offerings at his farm-fresh, locally-focused, neighborhood restaurant.
SG: Could you tell us a little about Gather and the food you serve?
MC: Gather is a neighborhood eatery focusing on reasonably priced, farm-fresh American fare.
SG: What inspired you to start Gather?
MC: Like many things, the idea to start Gather was born out of a personal desire. I felt the area lacked an inviting spot for people to come together and enjoy good, local food. I was equally inspired by the space itself when it came up for lease. Originally a Masonic hall (1860s), it has always served in some capacity as a public gathering spot. I love the 14ft ceilings and stage for the open kitchen.
SG: What is the mission of your restaurant?
MC: We’ve never formally articulated a mission, but what drives me is making local food more accessible – more “everyday”. Not just for special occasions.
SG: Besides delicious food, what other events, programs, offerings, etc. do you have at the restaurant?
MC: We also support local music by featuring area musicians in our Acoustic Wednesday series (6:30-8:30 every wed), and for our Bluegrass Brunch (every Sunday). Also, this past summer we introduced Garden Barter where we take surplus veggies from home gardeners in exchange for credit at the restaurant. Garden Barter was very well receieved and we will offer it again in 2015.
SG: What do you think makes the restaurant unique?
MC: No magic formula here. Just atmosphere, good service, and local food at a fair price.
Gather is a wonderful addition to Yarmouth. The food is fresh and the menu is unique. Well worth the visit, but give yourself plenty of time there. It is not a place to “eat and run.” It’s a comfortable, relaxed, not-in-a-hurry dining experience.