It is hard to recall a time when Rosie’s wasn’t the center of Lovell Village with a steady stream of people coming and going throughout the day. Whether they were there to pick-up a newspaper, a quart of milk, a six-pack of beer, a container of fishing worms or to just sit at the counter for a hearty breakfast, there was always a high level of activity.
Identifying what makes Rosie’s a special place is a difficult task. After all, western Maine is filled with convenience stores in older buildings that serve similar products. Part of the charm might be the uneven wooden floors or the crowded aisles, or perhaps it is the wooden countertop with swivel chairs. Is it the soft-serve ice cream cones in the summer or the Friday night pizza take-out? Perhaps it is the back and forth banter between customers and the sassy but friendly staff.
Rosie’s was always the place to come to catch up on local news which could be delivered by Rosie herself or a customer enjoying one of the lunch specials.
One of my favorite Trip Advisor postings about Rosie’s captures the hometown feel perfectly:
Rosie's - Awesome Breakfast and Awesome People
We were a group of cousins staying at Lake Kezar and heard great things about Rosie's so we gave it a try. Stopped for breakfast and took up the entire front counter. I had Eggs Benedict, my favorite, and it was terrific and the price was very fair. The cousins all raved about the coffee as well. I especially liked the older gentleman sitting near me next to the door. His name was Norm and everyone who walked in or out knew his name, felt like I was at Cheers, LOL
When the lights go out and the doors are locked for the last time on Sunday at 5 pm, it is uncertain if and when a new store will open. Hopefully, it won’t be too long. Rosie did a great job of making the store an integral part of the fabric that makes Lovell a special place. Sure, the store and staff will be missed but we can’t be selfish so I would like to be one of many to offer Rosie a “Happy Retirement”