let us introduce ourselves
At The Downtown Social, we’re more than just a Maine event venue—we’re a place where real connection happens. Designed for gathering, celebrating, and sharing great food and drinks, our venue brings people together through experiences that feel authentic, relaxed, and unforgettable.
Whether you’re hosting a private event or joining one of our community nights, we craft each moment with intention—from our chef-curated menus and licensed bar catering to the cozy, inclusive vibe that makes guests feel right at home.
We believe in events that enrich—not exhaust. Our gatherings are lively, meaningful, and end early enough for you to enjoy both the party and a good night’s rest.
Inside our historic space—featuring two floors of indoor gathering areas and a beautiful outdoor terrace—you’ll find more than just a venue. You’ll find a community hub. A flexible, welcoming atmosphere where every celebration reflects your vibe and invites others in.
Come as you are. Stay as long as you like. Let’s create something memorable—together.
The Team at downtown social
Be Social
Perfect Timing
Perfect Timing
Founder, Event Visionary & Hospitality Maven
Courtney has been creating spaces for celebration since childhood, when she first began hosting beachside gatherings on Peaks Island. That early spark turned into a career: with over 20 years in the industry, she founded The Maine Lobsterbake Co., delivering iconic seaside catering experiences a
Founder, Event Visionary & Hospitality Maven
Courtney has been creating spaces for celebration since childhood, when she first began hosting beachside gatherings on Peaks Island. That early spark turned into a career: with over 20 years in the industry, she founded The Maine Lobsterbake Co., delivering iconic seaside catering experiences across Maine.
Her global travels inspire her fresh, inclusive approach to every event, from backyard lobster bakes to elegant cocktail receptions. Courtney's mission is simple: make every gathering feel like a celebration of life.
Perfect Timing
Perfect Timing
Perfect Timing
Culinary Creators & Catering Power Duo
Culinary Creators & Catering Power Duo
Chef Jordan brings nearly a decade of culinary excellence to Portland, Maine, with roots in classical French cuisine and a passion for local ingredients. His time spent in Portland’s vibrant kitchens has shaped his bold, refined cooking style—one that elevates every dish served at The Downtown Social.
Elise, a Massachusetts native raised on her family’s farm (which also houses a charming wedding venue), brings deep appreciation for hospitality, service, and the magic of food. Her early experiences shaped her commitment to flawless execution and warm, guest-first service.
Together, they lead our in-house catering team, delivering personalized menus and impeccable service to every event—whether it’s a rooftop cocktail hour, a rehearsal dinner, or a private event with full bar service.
A Vision Brought to Life
In the fall of 2024, Courtney MacIsaac and Kevin Casey opened The Downtown Social, a one-of-a-kind event venue. Their vision? A welcoming space with great food, handcrafted cocktails, and big, joyful energy—a place where people could connect, celebrate, and be social.
The concept blended small plates with big vibes, offering not just a meal, but an experience. With both indoor and outdoor event spaces, and a fully licensed bar catering service, Downtown Social quickly became a local favorite for hosting unforgettable moments.
During the early planning stages, Kevin sought out a chef who could bring elevated comfort food to life. That’s when Elise—who had previously worked with Kevin—introduced him to Chef Jordan. Their connection was instant. Conversations flowed, ideas sparked, and soon they were finishing each other's sentences. It was a perfect partnership built on shared passion for food and hospitality.
But in October 2024, tragedy struck. Kevin’s sudden passing shook Portland’s tight-knit restaurant and event community. His absence was deeply felt, yet his dynamic spirit and infectious energy remain at the core of everything we do.
In his honor, Perfect Timing was born—a creative culinary partner led by Elise and Jordan, carrying Kevin’s legacy forward through exceptional food, bar service, and warm hospitality. Together with Courtney and the Downtown Social team, they continue to bring people together through thoughtfully curated events that celebrate life, love, and community.