Naan the go

Tired of pretzels or pizza when you’re out and about shopping in the mall? Try something different next time and pick up some Indian food. About one month ago Taste of India proprietors Rakesh Kumar and Uma Kant opened Chayak Craftf in the Bangor Mall food court, in addition to the downtown spot, a longtime Bangor dining favorite. Chayak Craftf offers a menu featuring old favorites such as Savory Chicken Tikka Masala, Naan Bread and Creamy Chicken and Lamb Curries, as well as occasional specials. With prices ranging from $5.95 to $6.95 for a full meal, it’s a steal. Hours are the same as at the mall – 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday-Saturday, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Sundays.

From the land

Portland restaurant Cinque Terre will hold its first “Eco Appetito – Good Eating for a Good Earth” event 1-4 p.m. Sunday, March 16, at its location on 36 Wharf St. in the Old Port. The event celebrates Maine food and beverages, and benefits the Ferry Beach Ecology School’s “Food for Thought” program, which teaches students about natural and organic foods and sustainable living. Eco Appetito will offer samples from dozens of Maine producers, including venison, veal and lamb; cheeses and breads, seafood, produce, soups and pastas. There are beers and wines, too, from Allagash Brewing, Peak Organic Brewing and Wicked Wines of Orrington. The cost is $50 per person; to purchase tickets, call 671-0643.

In a pickle …

This one has to be tasted to be believed: Texas entrepreneurs John Howard and David Millar have started selling the “PickleSickle,” a frozen treat made from pickles and pickle juice. The PickleSickle folks claim their concoctions have special health perks, such as the fact that studies show that vinegar, the principal ingredient, prevents a blood-sugar spike after a high-carb meal, which is beneficial for diabetics. While the sour treats may have no fat and less than 1 gram of sugar, the sodium levels are through the roof. Still, pregnant women now have an even easier way to sate cravings – and in further weirdness, the pickle pop people plan to introduce cherry and lemon-lime flavors soon as well. Good, or gross? You be the judge. For more, visit www.pickle

sickle.com.

Tidbits is hungry for news about local food products and events. Send your Tidbits by mail to: Bangor Daily News, attn: Tidbits, P.O. Box 1329, Bangor 04402-1329; by fax to 941-9476; or by e-mail to tidbits@bangordailynews.net.