The Wing King is Back and in Full Swing

I know something about fun places. I have spent most of my life studying where a good time can be had by all. Some would say that I am an expert in the field. That being said, I kid you not when I say that Mike’s Sidetrack Grill is destined to become a dining and entertainment hot spot for locals and visitors alike.

I know this to be true because I had the pleasure of sharing lunch with owner, Shawn O’Connor and my friend Scott Damon. Shawn was engaging, fun spirited, sincere and interactive with everyone in his establishment. No customer went unnoticed and you can be sure that every customer I saw leave, I knew would came back again. According to Shawn, “you’re only a stranger once”.

Mike's Sidetrack Grill owner, Shawn O'Connor, is pictured with his brother Mike in the background (George Tibbetts photo)

At this point in any eatery article, the writer is expected to write about the menu, mentioning something about snacks, burgers, and other fare. No need in this case. Suffice it to say that my Boston style grinder was great and everyone around me seemed very pleased with their selections. As Shawn’s by-line states, he is the “Wing King”, claiming to have perfected his own assorted array of every wing flavor under the sun. Many people would agree.

His many years of experience include owning Jonathan’s Restaurant on Route 27 in Augusta from 1988 to 2005. Other endeavors he has on his resume are the Eastside Pub in Vassalboro and the North Augusta Pie Co., AKA Krispy’s Variety in 2005 -2006.

Shawn said he’s very pleased with his new business and also said that every day he comes to work, “it is just like I’ve been here forever”. What makes it even more special is that Mike’s Sidetrack Grill is a tribute to his brother, Michael, who’s succumbed to pancreatic cancer at the age of 53 – exactly one year prior to the date he officially opened for business.

Shawn is assisted in his business by his daughter Kristine. When I was there the kitchen was being managed by cook Justin Beckwith and our accommodating waitress Cheryl Flanagan (Irish, don’t you know).

And, of course, Mike’s Sidetrack Grill offers entertainment. They have a DJ on Thursday, live acoustic music on Friday and Saturday and an Open Jam on Sunday from 4 ‘til 8pm. They also offer two large screen TVs and a game room.

Their hours are Sun – Wed 11am – 9pm, Thurs – Sat 11am to 1am. Take out service is available by calling 582-wings. Located at 463 Water St. Gardiner Maine 04345

I’ll meet you there!