This church might have the best lunch deal in the area
The Penobscot Cafe fosters friendship and conversation — and battles isolation — with a meal for just $7
Aug. 4, 2026
By Jessi Hardy
Patty Hutchins serves a piece of birthday pie to Lucy Rankin. Photo by Jessi Hardy.
What started as a meals program for senior citizens in Penobscot has evolved into a cafe-style luncheon for anyone who wants to break bread with others – for a suggested donation of just $7.
The Penobscot Cafe, which started in 2024 and hosts a lunch every Monday at the Methodist Church, now regularly draws 30-40 people each week.
Penobscot Cafe volunteer Sylvia Tapley. Photo by Jessi Hardy.
“The Town of Penobscot had no community gathering place where folks can sit, have some coffee and socialize. People, especially those who are lonely, had nowhere in town to gather (other than churches maybe). Something like the cafe has long been needed in our community. It can be very isolating for many, especially the older population,” said Penobscot resident Sylvia Tapley, who helps prepare and serve the meals.
Starting on Sundays “chief cook” Patty Hutchins prepares and coordinates homemade community meals, including gluten-free options. Every week is a different menu. Volunteers chip in by preparing dishes, providing supplies, or making donations.
The cafe works in collaboration with two Penobscot churches, the United Methodist Church and the Baptist Church, also known locally as the Chocolate Church because of its brown paint color.
“Every week I can meet up with a room full of friends,” Hutchins said. “It’s their opportunity to be with friends, too. But sharing good food doesn’t hurt.”
Meals can vary from pulled pork to scallops, homemade chicken tenders to lobster. The cafe recommends a donation of $7 per person.
“Where can you go and get a meal like this for $7?” volunteer Jan McKay said. “You can’t. Not for this quality.”
Doors open for lunch at 11 a.m. and lunch is served at noon after recognitions of birthdays, concerns and prayers for community members.
At a lunch last month, the menu consisted of baked beans, shepherd’s pie, mac and cheese, coleslaw, chop suey, hot dogs and yeast rolls fresh from the oven. The meal was finished with a dessert of blueberry pie – with Maine blueberries, naturally.
“We want pie,” chanted Harold Shaw and Pappy Parker as they were the last to be served.
The cafe is filled with jokes, door prizes, songs and takeout meals for members who are unable to attend.
“It has taken two and a half years to practice,” guest Steve Brown said of the cafe’s success.
All are welcome to attend, but organizers ask that guests call ahead so organizers may plan accordingly. To reserve a spot, call Patty Hutchins at 207-479-3000.
