TOPSHAM — Topsham has a new, locally owned restaurant and pub — Urban Element.
Located on Route 196, just off Interstate 295, Urban Element is not only a convenient lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch spot for locals, it’s sure to become an easy destination for foodies from away.
It also has a privatte private lot. But it’s not the convenience that will keep customers coming back to Urban Element. It’s the food, atmosphere and service.
Their seasonal menu features locally sourced ingredients, such as burgers and steaks from L.P. Bisson’s Farm and a variety of herbs and veggies from Stone Cipher Farm, Olivia’s Greenhouse and their own ever expanding on-site gardens. And that’s by design. The owners are big believers in supporting other small businesses, which means sourcing as much as possible from local farms.
Owner and entrepreneur Gary Howard said, “Buying from local farms not only gives us access to the freshest and highest quality ingredients, we’re supporting our fellow small business owners, which is good for the local economy and supports our sustainable business model.”
Food that doesn’t travel hundreds or even thousands of miles to get to our plates is better for the environment. And many of the farms Urban Element buys from are either certified organic or use sustainable growing practices, which is also better for our environment.
These fresh ingredients give chefs Randy and Mary Macomber the ability to cook up some seriously amazing dishes. The New American pub-style menu is simple, yet creative. Randy Macomber said “Our goal is to create dishes that are approachable.” Urban Element certainly isn’t alone in their farm-to-table model, but they are one of the few who are doing it pub style.
The brussel sprouts and wings are must-have starters and pair well with one of the draft craft beers or unique organic wines. A buy-one, get-one-free appetizer deal runs through the end of October. Also on the menu are huge salads and homemade flatbreads, perfect choices for a weeknight dinner. Stop in on Wednesday for their Date Night Deal. For just $19.99 you get a house or Caesar salad and flatbread to share, along with two draft beers. Those looking for a more substantial meal may want to try the chicken marsala.
The interior is as unique as the food. The tables and huge bar are made of reclaimed barn boards and were constructed by Maine craftsman at Barn Boards and More.
There is truly nothing else like it in the area, so if you’re looking for Portland style food and atmosphere at mid-coast prices, than look no further than Urban Element. The menu, hours and specials can be found on line at www.urbanelement207.com or Facebook @UrbanElement207.
Winter hours are Tuesday through Saturday, 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m., and 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. for Sunday brunch.