Readers respond: Higgins to blame for its troubles

I am saddened to hear that Higgins Restaurant may close its doors, (“

Longtime downtown Portland restaurant calls for help — ‘We’re on the brink,

’” July 12). And rather than blame the pandemic and vacancies downtown, I think the owners should acknowledge that they have priced themselves out of the Portland market.

The

cost of dinner at Higgins

can easily run $50-100 per person. I am certain I am not alone in considering that cost to be luxury territory reserved only for very special occasions.

Portland has many fine eateries where a wonderful meal can be had for half that cost (or less) – even with the price increases all of us have seen over the past few years.

Restaurants that survive need to offer both quality and value. Without question Higgins offers quality. On value, however, they are missing the mark.