As the lupines stretch toward the light and the scent of spring settles once again over Mount Desert Island, we find ourselves reflecting on a year marked by both challenge and deep gratitude.
This past year, our organization faced a particularly difficult moment when our beloved founder and head chef, Mahandeva Singh, needed to step away for cancer treatment. His absence left a palpable gap—not only in our kitchen, but in the very heart of Open Table MDI. And yet, as is so often the case in this incredible community, others stepped up. Chef Isaac Steiner embraced the role with humility, skill, and quiet leadership. We’re also deeply grateful to our Board and volunteers, who offered their time, insight, and hands-on support to keep things moving forward. Thanks to this collective effort, the meals continued, the lights stayed on, and the mission endured. We could not be more thankful for numerous steady hands, and now, with Mahandeva’s return to the kitchen, we find ourselves filled with a renewed sense of energy and purpose.
Spring also brings the reopening of Cottage Street Ramen, our beloved seasonal pop-up where craft and care meet in every bowl. Tucked into our space in downtown Bar Harbor, this ramen shop is more than just a place to eat—it’s a celebration of flavor, community, and purpose. Every dollar spent at Cottage Street Ramen directly supports Open Table MDI’s mission, helping us continue to provide free, nourishing meals to those who need them most. It’s good food, doing good work—and a delicious way to be part of something meaningful.
We are equally excited about a new partnership blossoming just up the road—our collaboration with the Bar Harbor Food Pantry and the College of the Atlantic’s Peggy Rockefeller Farm. Together, we are cultivating a garden that will grow food for our community—fresh, local produce that not only fills bellies but strengthens our sense of connection to this land and to one another. It’s a project rooted in shared care, where every seed planted is a step toward greater food security and collective resilience.
None of this would be possible without you.
Whether you’ve shared a meal, donated time or resources, or simply spoken our name to a friend, you’ve helped keep Open Table MDI rooted and growing. As we look toward the summer season and all the nourishment it brings, we ask for your continued support. Your donation—of any size—helps us keep our doors open, our meals abundant, and our work thriving.
Thank you for believing in this work. Thank you for feeding hope.
