10 Things Cooks Corner Should Have to Revitalize Brunswick

Brunswick, Maine, wants to turn the nearly empty Cook's Corner shopping area into a place people want to go.

But what will it take? People have many suggestions on what would bring back the magic that was Cook's Corner in the '90s. The Bangor Daily News says that Brunswick's goal is to ease traffic and make it a walkable neighborhood with shops and housing. The Town Council says that this isn't a plan that will sit on the shelf. Here are some suggestions made by Mainers of what they'd like to see.

Bookland

Yes, Barnes and Noble has a store in Brunswick next to Shaw's, but people miss the cafe. People miss Bookland a lot!

Payless Shoe

A mall favorite, Payless Shoes (Payless.com now) went out of business in 2019, but is back! So maybe, just maybe, they will open in the new Cook's Corner!

Friendly's

I think the reason that people want Friendly's to come back (it always makes the 'what do you miss' lists) is because of nostalgia more than amazing food. It was always decent food, but so many of us have happy memories of meals here. It would be a great place to try and make more memories.

Trader Joe's

I'd be all for Trader Joe's opening up in Brunswick. It might open up a couple of parking spots for the only one in Maine in Portland.

Crumbl Cookies

They are giant cookies. We're talking big ol' cookies. It's the kind of cookie that you need a nap after enjoying.

READ MORE: Who Remembers How Awesome Cooks Corner in Brunswick Was in the ’90s?

HomeGoods

This store is the 'it' store for home...stuff. It's T.J. Maxx, The Christmas Tree Shop, and Marden's all rolled into one!

Kohl's

Kohl's is still hanging in there, but they have had some financial hurdles and sales are down. Maybe a new place in Brunswick's new spiffy Cook's Corner would turn things around.

Movie Theater

Movies took a giant hit during Covid four years ago (yes, four years ago). But there is nothing like going to the movies. It can be a great neighborhood experience, and should be brought back!

KB Toys

Part of the magic of Cook's Corner was KB Toys, and getting to play with stuff. This is something that kids these days need more of. Fewer phones and more toys on the floor!

Sonic

Imagine going to the movies, playing with toys, getting that book you've wanted, the lamp for the living room, and ending with a burger from Sonic. This isn't a bad plan for Cook's Corner in Brunswick!