Kyle Apel + Wiley’s on Main

Meet Kyle Apel, the heart and soul behind Wiley's Good Food on Main Street in Rockland. Named after his great-grandmother, a talented baker, Wiley’s opened its doors in May 2023 and has been serving up delightful dishes ever since. As Kyle celebrates his first year in business, he reflects on his journey from the bustling kitchens of NYC to the vibrant streets of Rockland.

“I consider myself more of a cook than a chef,” Kyle says, emphasizing his hands-on approach to crafting meals that surprise and satisfy. “I just want to give people a good experience,” he adds, taking pride in the unexpected joy his food brings to patrons. His culinary roots are diverse; trained in classical French cooking and deeply influenced by his extensive travels through Mexico, Kyle blends robust flavors and straightforward presentation in a way that’s uniquely his own.

Kyle is a one-man show, recently hiring a cashier so he could dedicate more time to what he loves most—cooking. His commitment to the community shines through his use of local ingredients sourced from Midcoast farmers, butchers, and fishermen. Wiley’s Good Food is a culmination of Kyle’s rich experiences from fine dining in NYC to rustic venues in Vermont and trendy eateries in Jersey City.

Located at the former site of The Shack at 346 Main Street, Wiley’s offers a cozy spot with outdoor seating, perfect for enjoying the local scenery alongside a meal. For lunch, you can dive into an array of tacos, burritos, burrito bowls, and quesadillas.

Also worth noting: Kyle will be doing Tuesday Taco Nights at The Waldoboro Inn throughout the summer. He also does brunch pop-ups at Lucky Betty's the last Sunday of the month, and sporadically at the Block Saloon in Thomaston.

Next time you’re on Main Street, drop by Wiley's Good Food to enjoy a meal that's a true reflection of Kyle’s passion for cooking and community. “I love being part of the community, and I love meeting people,” Kyle says. So, go say hello and savor the flavors that only Wiley’s can offer.

FAMOUS FOR:
The pork shoulder tacos (each week, they go through 90-100 lbs of pork shoulder). Also, the outdoor seating.

ADDRESS:
346 Main Street in Rockland, Maine

HOURS:
Mon through Fri: 11a-5p

WEBSITE:
wileysonmain.com