Fans of Maples learned on Monday of its closing when owner Robin Ray posted a heartfelt announcement on Facebook and Instagram:
“This is me doing something I truly love but it’s time to move on from the daily grind of owning Maples. We are closed because it’s what I need to do for myself. Thank you to EVERYONE who has supported me on this journey. I am grateful and full of emotion.”
The accompanying photo showed Ray shaping and readying bagels for the oven.
Community reaction online was swift, reflecting a combination of dismay, appreciation and affection. Commenters listed what they would miss: the scones, bagels, bread, cream cheese, English muffins… the coffee, the music, the vibe, but above all Robin Ray and her staff. Well wishes abounded.
Ray opened the Maples New Gloucester location in 2023, relocating after eight years on Route 1 in Yarmouth. Loyal fans from there made the trek here, including Press Herald food editor Peggy Grodinsky, whose review in October praised the food, coffee and atmosphere, declaring the New Gloucester Maples “Worth the drive!”
On the day of Ray’s closure announcement, Mike from Yarmouth pulled into the parking lot on Lewiston Road, took in the Closed sign and paused to chat with a local. He said he has a friend who’s a professional baker, so he understands the hours and the toll that such a business takes. Still, he said, he’ll miss Maples. — J.C.
