Is The Public Market House in Portland, Maine, Doomed to Fail?

It wasn't that long ago that people were piling into the Portland Public Market House to grab a bite to eat.

But like so many breakfast and lunch standards in the city, things just haven't been the same for the Public Market House post-pandemic.

Prior to 2020, vacancies inside the Public Market House were somewhat rare. The market was home to well-known spots like Mr. Tuna, Big Sky Bread Company and Kamasouptra amongst others.

Right now, the Public Market House only houses two restaurants. The beloved Yardie Ting and a new spot called Bub's Home Kitchen.

So is the Public Market doomed to fail?

The Portland Public Market House is Available For Lease

According to Portland Food Map, the Public Market House in Monument Square is available for lease. The building owner is hopeful that someone believes in the space and could develop it back into the bustling spot it once was.

But it will be a challenge. The Public Market House was once a lunch destination but diminished lunch crowds and increased dinner interest will leave any developer stuck on how to breathe life into the space.

The Public Market House in Portland, Maine, Has a Rich History

The original Portland Public Market House was built 200 years ago in 1825. Farmers sold their goods on the ground floor while the upstairs was home to the state's first public gym.

That original public market house eventually became Portland's City Hall before eventually being demolished.

Today's Public Market House is located in the Emerson Clapp Building.