What Replaced Starbucks at the Maine Mall in South Portland

About one year ago, post-Holiday shoppers visiting the Maine Mall were greeted with an odd sight. The longtime Starbucks location near Jordan's Furniture had suddenly disappeared and it its place was a single, short note.

"...it has been a great pleasure to connect with you every day. We are very thankful to have played a role in your daily routine and that you have shared these moments of your life with us"

The closure has made more sense over the last year as another Starbucks location has opened just down the street in the Marden's Plaza. Many figured that there would be another coffee purveyor who would simply jump at the opportunity to fill the vacancy at the Maine Mall. A Dunkin'? An Aroma Joe's?

Instead, the old Starbucks sat there empty for the better part of 12 months. But if you've once again visited the Maine Mall post-holiday this year, you've noticed there's a familiar business that has brought life back to the space.

That would be What the Actual Fudge. The brand itself shouldn't be new to Maine Mall shoppers. What the Actual Fudge has been running a center aisle kiosk in the mall for quite some time now.

But the kiosk days are over and a new store is up and running. If you haven't visited before, What the Actual Fudge offers a variety small batch, gourmet fudge that is absolutely mouthwatering.

The inside of the new store will remind a lot of people of the old Starbucks, except with a ton of new offerings. The gourmet fudge is plentiful with the store also offering beverages and an expansive Jelly Belly station as well.