Ellsworth's Oldest Restaurant Building to Host Fundraising Dinner

Heart of Ellsworth partners with Provender Kitchen + Bar for 'Three Courses for Community' event.

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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Heart of Ellsworth, a local nonprofit, is collaborating with Provender Kitchen + Bar to host a fundraising dinner on March 1 in Ellsworth's oldest continuously operating restaurant building. The ticketed event, titled 'Three Courses for Community: An Evening of Food for Fundraising,' will feature a three-course meal prepared by award-winning Chef Daron Goldstein, with proceeds supporting Heart of Ellsworth's efforts to revitalize the downtown district.

Why it matters

The event holds special significance as it takes place in Ellsworth's oldest restaurant building, which has served generations of residents and visitors. By hosting the dinner in this historic space, the organizers aim to honor the legacy of the building and invest in the future of Ellsworth's vibrant downtown.

The details

The evening will begin with a cocktail hour and passed appetizers, followed by a three-course dinner featuring a menu curated by Chef Daron Goldstein. The meal will include bright, charred greens to start, a truffle-accented roasted chicken main course, and a chocolate mousse finale with coffee service. A vegetarian option will also be available. Tickets are $150 per person, and seating is limited.

  • The event will take place on Sunday, March 1, 2026.
  • The evening will begin at 5:30 p.m. with a cocktail hour, followed by dinner at 6:30 p.m.

The players

Heart of Ellsworth

A local nonprofit organization that works to strengthen Ellsworth's downtown through community events, revitalization projects, and strategic partnerships.

Provender Kitchen + Bar

Ellsworth's oldest continuously operating restaurant building, which will host the fundraising dinner.

Daron Goldstein

An award-winning chef who has curated the menu for the fundraising dinner.

Cara Romano

The executive director of Heart of Ellsworth.

VacationLand Coffee Roasters

The coffee service provider for the event.

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What they’re saying

“After spending the past year working toward historic designation for our downtown district, hosting this dinner in Ellsworth's oldest restaurant building feels incredibly meaningful. These walls have witnessed generations of conversation, celebration, and community. Partnering with Chef Daron Goldstein brings that history to life in such a special way.”

— Cara Romano, Executive Director, Heart of Ellsworth (Instagram)

What’s next

Tickets for the event must be purchased in advance at the Heart of Ellsworth website. Seating is limited, and a vegetarian option is available upon request at the time of ticket purchase.

The takeaway

This fundraising dinner not only celebrates the rich history of Ellsworth's oldest restaurant building but also supports the ongoing efforts of Heart of Ellsworth to revitalize the downtown district and ensure it remains a vibrant, welcoming, and thriving community hub for generations to come.