Maine Oven Craft on the Road: Hearthfelt Stories
We were honored to make Fogtown Brewing Company one of the first stops on our 2026 Hearthfelt Stories tour.
Slightly hidden, in the heart of downtown Ellsworth, ME, you’ll find this vibrant community brewery. I recently had the privilege of sitting down with founder, Jon Stein, for a passionate conversation about beer, food, community, and, of course, wood-fired ovens.
Fogtown feels a lot like having dinner at a friend’s house.
The beer garden invites you to gather, linger and enjoy life’s simplest pleasures with friends. Long tables emulate a traditional German Bier Garden and encourage patrons to share their dining experience together. An array of plants bursting with tomatoes, raspberries and fresh herbs punctuate the perimeter.
Jon’s passion for community, and craft, are evident in every detail. Murals by local artists, activities for kids, and a community stage reiterate the thoughtful intention behind every element of the space and business.
Fogtown is a phenomenal example of a third place, [neutral gathering places outside of work or home], creating an inviting environment for people of all ages to gather and share good food, beer and company. Third places are so important to the long-term vibrancy and well-being of communities.
I was thrilled to share in such a thoughtful conversation and to experience Fogtown first hand.
Thank you to Jon and the team for welcoming us into your space— and feeding us so well! If you are ever in the Ellsworth area, or passing through on your way to Acadia, be sure to plan a stop at Fogtown.
Want to learn more about Fogtown?
Check out Jon’s interview to learn more about Fogtown, their dedication to sourcing locally, and how a Maine Oven Craft oven elevated their business and their values simultaneously.