Here’s something we know to be true about Maine: in the winter we’re all dreaming of going on vacation. Sure, the snow is fun. The first few times. But after a while things get mentally challenging. So much cold, so much rain, so much snow, so much wind. We just want a break. And, strangely, that’s what you’ll get if you head a bit off-the-beaten path to visit this wonder of a restaurant. Or, rather, sporting club! And it’s open year-round so you can take a break any day of the week!
Winter, spring, summer or fall, the Long Lake Sporting Club in Sinclair is there to make things feel a little more festive. This is especially welcome in the winter, when Maine is often at it’s dreariest.
Marty Richard / Google
Just step inside and the vibes change to something a little more vacation-like!
chris whitten / Google
The history of this secret little spot is just as wonderful as the food and drink!
R9267PTwilliamp / TripAdvisor It got its start in 1922 when Maxine Albert and George Gagnon built it. It changed hands some time later, but ultimately shut its doors in 1929 during the depression. It was reopened in 1933, this time with electricity and a liquor license!
But not soon after, in 1938, it burned down. The good news? It was rebuilt and officially given the name it has today!
Today the Long Lake Sporting Club is run by members of the same family who have run things since 1971! Things have changed, but much of the tradition here has stayed the same.
Peter Brini / Google
That includes how hoppin’ it is in the winter time. Folks arrive on their sleds and spend the day. The Sporting Club offers gas and oil for snowmobilers, too.
Rick Dotterer / Google
And with so much land on which to travel, it’s no surprise that this place is a vital part of a day out.
Long Lake Sporting Club / Facebook
Okay, okay, but what about the food? It’s great! Hearty plates ranging from BBQ ribs to lobster, clams and even Alaskan King Crab Legs.
Anissa Levesque / Google
The lobster here is big and juicy, exactly what you’d expect in Maine even though this little spot isn’t on the ocean.
ssaini1 Saini / Google
And lest you worry that you can’t be healthy here, just look at this huge salad.
Alex Gauvin / Google
But, who needs to be healthy all the time? Be sure to make time and room for one of their incredible desserts.
Long Lake Sporting Club / Facebook While the Long Lake Sporting Club might be a trek for those who live in southern Maine, it’s a stalwart of the community for those in The County. And it doesn’t get much more Maine than this!
The Long Lake Sporting Club is open year-round, every day of the week. Monday through Saturday they’re open from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m and on Sunday they’re open from noon to 9 p.m. You can learn more about them on their website or visit them on Facebook. They can be reached on 207-543-7584.
Marty Richard / Google
chris whitten / Google
R9267PTwilliamp / TripAdvisor
It got its start in 1922 when Maxine Albert and George Gagnon built it. It changed hands some time later, but ultimately shut its doors in 1929 during the depression. It was reopened in 1933, this time with electricity and a liquor license!
But not soon after, in 1938, it burned down. The good news? It was rebuilt and officially given the name it has today!
Peter Brini / Google
Rick Dotterer / Google
Long Lake Sporting Club / Facebook
Anissa Levesque / Google
ssaini1 Saini / Google
Alex Gauvin / Google
While the Long Lake Sporting Club might be a trek for those who live in southern Maine, it’s a stalwart of the community for those in The County. And it doesn’t get much more Maine than this!
To spend even more time off-the-beaten-path, check out these 12 small towns in rural Maine that are downright delightful.
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Address: Long Lake Sporting Club, 48 Sinclair Rd #162, Sinclair, ME 04779, USA
