The Story Behind Sur Lie & Gather: Krista Cole’s Path to Culinary Impact

Krista Cole, owner and Director of Operations for Sur Lie in Portland and Gather in Yarmouth, brings Northern Maine grit and hospitality to the heart of the restaurant world. A two-time James Beard semifinalist, Krista’s journey began in healthcare management, where she built a foundation in operations and strategy before stepping full-force into entrepreneurship. Her story is one of dual passions—caring for people and creating meaningful food experiences. From her humble roots in Houlton to balancing two full-time careers, she’s stayed true to her small-town values: honesty, hard work, and community. At Sur Lie, she redefines upscale casual dining, while Gather feels like a welcoming neighborhood table—complete with a team that shares her passion for service. Krista’s love of systems, branding, and culture-building has made her a force in Maine’s culinary scene and a role model for women entrepreneurs. Join our conversation with Krista Cole today on Radio Maine—and don’t forget to subscribe to our channel.