The Common Loon - Orono, ME

Date of dining experience: May 16, 2019

Place: The Common Loon Public House

Location: 36 Main St. in Orono, ME

Appetizer 1: Scotch Egg ($4) - A hard-boiled egg wrapped in sausage, then lightly breaded and fried, served with Worcestershire sauce. This was not the worst I have had, but definitely not the best. The egg was a little overdone and the sausage used had no flavor. This was also the first time I have had one with Worcestershire sauce instead of a grainy mustard, which was different. I didn't mind it, it just wasn't what I was expecting.

Appetizer 2: Fried Brussels Sprouts ($8) - Exactly as the name says, served with a spicy maple aioli. I really liked the larger pieces of this dish, but there were not many of them. The Brussels sprouts used were very small, so it was more like eating a crunchy salad. I think if large Brussels sprouts had been used they would have stayed together better in the fryer. The sauce was great.

Entree: Pub Burger ($8) - A grass-fed beef patty with cheddar and pickles, served with fries. This was one of the best burgers I have eaten in a long time, and the bun was awesome. I usually don't get burgers at restaurants because so many people screw up burgers, plus there are usually many different better options. There were not a lot of options at all at this place.

Beers: I had many different local brews, as well as an old standard not regularly available. I started with a delicious Gearhead Ale from Black Bear Brewery, which was sort of a light Scotch ale or darker red ale. Then I went through a series of tastings with more hops: Phoenix IPA (New England-style) from Marsh Island Brewing, Tubular IPA (New England-style) from Orono Brewing Company, and Post Ride Snack (a session IPA) from Maine Beer Company. All of them were very good, and the Phoenix IPA was especially drinkable. I ended the night with an Old Speckled Hen (ESB-style) from Greene King in England.

Had I been alone, I probably would not have chosen this place, mostly because I was in Maine and they did not serve any dishes with lobster. However, I was with a group of people. We had great conversations, watched some hockey, and tasted many different fantastic beers. If I ever make it back here I will be sure to try one of their brick oven pizzas, which is probably what they are most known for. Try this place out for yourself and let me know what you think. Enjoy!