New indoor-outdoor destination offers year-round play and enrichment-focused daycare, with restaurant and bar opening shortly after launch

Woof.Play.Eat. has officially opened its doors at 49 Northport Drive, introducing a first-of-its-kind destination designed for dogs and the people who love them. The initial opening features Woof.Play.Eat.’s expansive indoor-outdoor dog park and enrichment-focused daycare, with the full-service restaurant and bar set to open shortly thereafter.

Built for Maine weather, Woof.Play.Eat. offers a 10,000-square-foot indoor-outdoor play environment where dogs can run, socialize, and burn energy year-round with highly trained staff overseeing safe, supervised play. Humans can stay and enjoy the experience as well, with a designated area designed specifically for ordering food and dining alongside their pups. For drop-off needs, the daycare program operates in a separate, purpose-built space with an enrichment-first approach, limited dogs per staff member, and multiple play areas that support structured activities and appropriately matched groups.

Safety and security are top priorities at Woof.Play.Eat. Play spaces are closely monitored by trained “Wooferees,” and all dogs are required to provide proof of registration and up-to-date vaccinations, as well as complete a temperament assessment prior to admission. In addition to daily play and daycare, Woof.Play.Eat. hosts regular events such as themed playdates and special training sessions, with both indoor and outdoor spaces also available for private parties and community gatherings.

The company was founded by Marissa and Brad Sterl, longtime dog owners who set out to create the kind of place they wished existed — one that prioritized safety, enrichment, and community. Brad, who grew up in southern Maine and has spent decades building and leading businesses across the Northeast, saw Portland as the ideal home for Woof.Play.Eat.’s first location.

“Portland has one of the most vibrant dog communities we’ve ever seen — people here truly treat their dogs as family,” said Marissa Sterl. “Between the walkable neighborhoods, active lifestyle, and long winters that limit outdoor play, it became clear that Portland was the right place to launch something that supports both dogs and their humans year-round.”

Woof.Play.Eat. was built with the belief that great care starts with people. The company offers above-average starting wages, health insurance, retirement options, pet health insurance, and paid volunteer time to support team members both on and off the clock. In addition, employees participate in custom training programs that elevate skills in animal care, enrichment, and hospitality — ensuring dogs are cared for by confident, knowledgeable professionals who are invested in their work and community.

The menu at Woof.Play.Eat. reflects an elevated yet approachable take on comfort dining, combining New England warmth with creative, globally inspired flavors. Guests will be able to indulge in hearty favorites like the “Au Poivre Pooch,” a steak au poivre served with frites, or explore lighter, inventive dishes such as harissa croquettes with minted sweet pea couscous. Dogs aren’t left out either, with a selection of thoughtfully prepared menu items created just for pups.

Community involvement is central to Woof.Play.Eat.’s mission. The company plans to actively support local dog shelters and rescue organizations through on-site adoption events, fundraisers, and special community gatherings. Woof.Play.Eat. also collaborates with local retailers and shelters on seasonal donation drives and events, encouraging the community to participate in initiatives such as sponsoring a KONG toy for dogs in shelters. These efforts create meaningful opportunities for guests to give back while celebrating Portland’s strong and compassionate dog community.

“We hope Woof.Play.Eat. becomes a community hub where local dogs and their owners come to relax and have fun in an environment designed with pets and humans in mind,” said Brad Sterl. “We believe we are addressing a unique niche in the market and look forward to opening future locations throughout New England and beyond.”

For more information, visit www.woofplayeat.com.

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“Between the walkable neighborhoods, active lifestyle, and long winters that limit outdoor play, it became clear that Portland was the right place to launch something that supports both dogs and their humans year-round," said co-owner Marissa Sterl.