One Of The Best Cafes In Maine Is Tucked Away In A Majestic Castle

Editor's Note: TIQA Cafe & Bakery is permanently closed.

As the weather gets warmer, all we want to do is take a break and enjoy a drink outside. Since we can't do it every day, when we do it's best when it's extra special. To that end, we loved finding this place. It's hiding in plain sight right off a main road in Portland. But, despite its location, we seem to have driven right past it for years! If you feel like royalty and just need the castle to match, head to this little cafe.

TIQA Cafe & Bakery sits inside the small castle in Deering Oaks Park.

The structure, which once housed Portland's visitor's center, was built for a measly $900 by local Portland architect Frederick Thompson.

In 2016, it was converted into a cafe-focused outpost of the popular Mediterranean restaurant, Tiqa.

The Deering Oaks Park location makes it a natural choice for those who have spent a sunny day in the park or have just finished strolling the Saturday farmers' market.

Because all the seating is outside, you can expect them to be closed on cloudy days when rain is expected.

But, catch them on a stunner of a spring day and you'll have the chance to order from an array of fresh salads and sandwiches.

Their cookies and freshly baked treats are a great on-the-go choice.

TIQA's breakfast menu is available throughout the day, plus they have some great small bites like baba ghanoush or hummus.

Driving by, you might never guess that this little castle houses one of the most unique cafe experiences in Portland.

TIQA Cafe & Bakery is officially open on Saturday from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. You'll find them open on warm days during the week, but don't make plans unless you're sure they're there. A good indication is the chairs and umbrellas set up on the patio outside. You can also give them a call on 207-482-6159. For more information, check them out on Facebook or visit their website. Address: 356 State Street, Portland, ME, 04101.

For more ways to feel like royalty, check out these 5 castles in Maine. They're all beautiful and some have some pretty great history and background stories.