Massimo’s Breads

I have to say something about Massimo, the man is a great baker. I’m glad to see that he’s back to doing what he does best. I had great memories of his place in Montclair. My coffee experience never the same since he left. So those fortunate Maine people, really enjoy the experience.

Wholly underwhelming as a lunch spot. The sandwiches were just «meh» but the crunchy bread was pretty good. I tried the «rustico» panini, which is advertised as having ham, cheese, roasted pepper, and balsamic vinegar. They went so light on the balsamic that I couldn’t taste it so I took it back, and they said they would be happy to add more (noting that their boss had mentioned to go light so as not to burn on the panini press). Well, it returned with an almost indistinguishable amount more (honestly, I couldn’t tell). Definitely annoying. I finished the sandwich and the soda and looked over at my wife, who mentioned that her prosciutto panini was «missing» the balsamic too but was too embarrassed to ask for more since I had already gone through the ordeal. We agreed that we wish we had gone somewhere else… especially since it cost over $ 20 for two sandwiches and two drinks (note: no sides, pickles, chips, nothing). I imagine the draw to Massimo’s Breads is their morning pastries and coffee drinks, but there’s no reason to come here for lunch. Then again, we were the only people there at noon on a weekday, which should say something.

A nice place to stop in for handcrafted cappuccino or café latte in the morning. Their selection of breads and pastries (they have cannoli!) look exquisite, and they offer pizzas later in the day, as well as lovely San Pellegrino sodas, sparkly waters, and other beverages. It wasn’t the quickest place to grab a cup of coffee, as there was only one person working when we came in, but it was very well done.

As a newbie to Bangor, I have been trying to give all local businesses some service. Sadly, this will be my last to Massimo’s Breads. This small bakery hosts two small tables near the window and during the lunch hour (open until 1pm) has only a few sandwich options. While most sandwiches boast being served with balsamic vinaigrette, apparently the owner has informed the staff to «lay off» the dressing. My sandwich had 3 drops at best. While the crunchy bread and fresh arugula/​prosciutto/​cheese on my Al Prosciutto was otherwise tasty, the sandwich as a whole was still «just okay». With other options down the street that offer more to the meal (sides and a drink) for cheaper, I don’t see the appeal to Massimo’s for lunch. I understand why this place thrives as a bakery and a place to buy fresh Italian bread, but maybe adding a lunch option was a little over-​zealous.

The selection of food aside from non-​pastries is fairly limited here.
Had a ginormous slice of russo pizza to go. $ 2.50. It’s half the size of a 13″ macbook pro. Insanely thick. Simple but tasty. You’ll most likely experience a huge food coma after eating one of these.
They do serve coffee, tea and espresso here.
Their tea selection is lackluster (they looked like teabags one can get from a generic grocery store). The coffee/​espresso machines look outdated. I saw the lavazza sign but I think you are better off getting something from Giacomo’s down the street.

al procuitto sandwich– so yummy, tastes just like the sandwiches i used to get in the cafes in Italy. I like to add the pesto to it to give it more flavor. The Pesto is so good– the best i have ever had to be honest, and my grandfather is from italy and its better than his haha.
my parents had the ham and a turkey sandwich. They both like theirs.
The pizza– they gave us a sample of the russo, which is just bread, a light tomato sauce, sea salt and olive oil. very basic and very chewy. they also slice it off of a large slab– it does not come pre sliced.
We brought home a loaf of bread– the olive one, sad to say it wasnt as good as i was expecting. Only had 2 olives in the whole thing and it was very crusty and chewy (which is what i like) but it also was pretty dry: (i would go back and try a different bread next time.
They have LavAzza coffee– i just wish they could also serve it iced and not just hot.
The hours are very small– open early at 7 am they close by 1:30pm on weekdays… bummer especialy if i am at the KahBang office and want to grab a late lunch around 3pm… oh well.
Def worth the trip but plan to eat on the go as there are no seats inside.