ROCKLAND—Locals now have another place to grab lunch or dinner, and "S" marks "The Spot."

The Spot

The Spot, owned and operated by Brian Fickett and Jillian Lary, opened in its second location in the former Oceanside Deli at 131 North Main Street.

Their menu is simple: salads with protein, such as chicken tenders, beef and veggie burgers, and handheld sandwiches, beer, ice cream, fries, and onion rings inspired by their love of American fast food.

"Our hamburgers and cheeseburgers are both double-pattied smash burgers," said Fickett. "Just like in our seasonal Washington Maine location the burgers and sandwiches can be customized with different toppings and sauces, all complimentary as part of the price.

Since their Washington space has to close down every season, Fickett and Lary have been looking for something permanent. They jumped on purchasing the former deli when it went up for sale.

"The building in Washington is not equipped for year-round operations, and closing down in the fall has never felt 'right," said Lary. "The Washington Spot is where it all started, but we knew it was time to begin probing for the perfect year-round Spot. The location on North Main naturally emulated that 'roadside vibe' we had been searching for."

Adding another affordable lunch option to Rockland has been a boon to the locals.

"Branching out to Rockland has opened up our market to cater to the many working professionals, students, our north-end neighbors, tourists, and anyone looking for a simple, non-pretentious meal at a casual hang," said Fickett. "We create our family-friendly spaces with community at the core and prioritize being an easy place to meet up with friends, colleagues, etc. The ease of online ordering has appealed to many and makes for a quick lunch option for those on a tight schedule or an easy way to order takeout for the whole office."

This is the fourth food-centered business Fickett and Lary have opened in recent years, along with Sterlingtown Public House, Sterlingtown Bake House, their Washington location of The Spot, and now, their Rockland location. "We've taken some big swings over the past few years and often remind ourselves and our team that we can figure everything out," said Lary.

"The answer to this is simple: a fearless, cohesive, dedicated team as well as a kind, supportive & hungry community," said Fickett.

The goal was to keep the menu the same. "We wanted to offer the comfort food that everyone knows and loves, made with fresh, recognizable ingredients, skipping the yucky additives," said Lary. "Our beef is fresh, never frozen, and burger patties are hand formed daily. Our french fries are made with Maine-grown potatoes and our Shaker Pond ice cream is made in Alfred, Maine. Many of our alcoholic beverages are brewed right here in Maine as well. 

It doesn't hurt that when the winter months start to close in and the time change makes the afternoons dark, The Spot, deliberately offers a cheerful tropical interior. "We draw inspiration from places we've visited on our travels," said Lary. "When you walk through the door, you'll be greeted with beachy reggae, surf highlights on the TV, tropical plants, mounted surfboards and sunshiney warmth."

The sit-in and takeout restaurant is open seven days a week, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. closing only on major holidays. To learn more visit: www.thespotmaine.com.

Kay Stephens can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com