Maine’s Acadia National Park is famous for its rugged coastline and stunning views, but it’s also home to a surprisingly delightful culinary tradition: the popover.
A Centuries-Old Treat and a Musician’s Last Meal
The savory pastry, served at Jordan Pond House since 1895, is Grammy-nominated musician Neko Case’s ultimate comfort food.
There were a few resolutions I didn’t quite manage in 2025-relearning how to change a tire, scheduling a meeting with a financial planner, or mastering homemade miso, to name a few. But in September 2021, during my first visit to Maine’s acadia National park, I proudly achieved one goal: to eat lobster every single day. from buttery lobster rolls to lobster stew, the experience was a crustacean-lover’s dream.
But beyond lobster and whoopie pies, Maine boasts another culinary gem: the popover. These pastries are crisp on the outside, light and chewy within, and dramatically puff up several inches above the muffin tin when baked.
why Popovers? Neko Case’s ‘Last Meal’ Choice
Why are we talking about Maine and popovers? Because popovers are Neko Case’s last meal! The Grammy-nominated musician, born and raised in Virginia, has a deep connection to the treat. “I’ve loved them as I was a kid,” she told me. “My grandmother used to make them, and then I discovered Jordan Pond House. It’s just… perfect.”
Case spent five years at Jordan Pond House and still loves them. Sisile now bakes popovers at Bailey’s Cafe in Dalton,Pennsylvania,and generously shared her recipe!
Neko Case and I also discussed:
- her time working as a soup cook at Hattie’s Hat,a favorite Seattle diner,and as a bartender at Tacoma’s Bob’s Java Jive.
- Her challenging childhood, where she says she was raised by “Two dogs and a space heater” and often lacked enough to eat.
- Her perspectives on artificial intelligence and the music industry.
- her new record, Neon Gray midnight Green.
Have a food- or drink-related question? (Need a restaurant recommendation? have a culinary mystery?) Send me a note: [email protected]
XO
Rachel Belle
