It’s here where folks are waiting to greet you with jokes, share a dose of gossip, and talk about current events. Here you can find advice and directions to anything that’s worth doing, as well as the how, what, where and when to do it.

Need hunting or fishing advice? You’ve come to the right place. These are places where “everybody knows your name,” and expect you to order the “usual, please.” I know I love it when they have my coffee and paper ready before I’ve even asked for it.

These are the places where people of different ages, genders and interests casually gather, talk, laugh and get to know one another. It’s hard to beat the feeling of walking into a neighborhood diner, market or shop and feel recognized and special.

If you do visit one of these places give yourself some extra time. It’s not a quick trip as you’ll inevitably connect with someone. Speak up! People are pretty engaging around here.

It’s easy to become a “regular” at the following fine establishments in the Sebago Lake area:

Beth’s Kitchen Café, Main Street, Bridgton

Main Street Variety, Main Street, Bridgton

Ricky’s Diner, Main Street, Bridgton

Quinn’s Jockey Cap Store and Motel, Bridgton Road, Fryeburg

Lovell Village Store, Route 5, Lovell

Center Lovell Store, Route 5, Center Lovell

Wicked Good Store, Route 5, Center Lovell

Springer’s General Store, Waterford Road, Rte. 37, East Waterford

Melby’s Store and Restaurant, Rte. 35, North Waterford

Market Basket, Main Street, Harrison

Village Tie-Up Market and Deli, Main Street, Harrison

Webbs Mills Variety, Poland Spring Road, Casco

Jordan’s Store, Route 114, Sebago

Gemmes Variety, Route 114, Sebago