When Amber Nachreiner and her partner, Cameron Rodrigues, set out to purchase Hot Suppa, they weren’t just acquiring a restaurant—they were inheriting a Portland institution. Housed in an 1860s Victorian on Congress Street, Hot Suppa has been a beloved destination for Southern comfort food since 2006, thanks to founders Alec and Moses Sabina.
Both Amber and Cameron brought years of restaurant experience to the table—Amber as a longtime Hot Suppa staff member, and Cameron as a seasoned bartender and kitchen trainee under Moses Sabina. Determined to honor the restaurant’s legacy, they reached out early to Maine SBDC for guidance.
Enter Chris Cole, a senior business advisor with deep roots in the restaurant industry and a reputation for empowering her clients. “Chris was empowering with her words, but also gracious and brilliant,” Amber said. Chris’s expertise proved invaluable as she guided them through LLC formation, licensing, landlord negotiations, and finalizing the purchase.
Financing was a significant challenge in a tough lending climate, but with Chris’s help, Amber and Cameron secured an SBA 7(a) loan through Bangor Savings Bank and additional working capital, ensuring a smooth transition and a strong start for their new venture.
Now operating as Camber Hospitality LLC, Amber and Cameron are committed to preserving Hot Suppa’s scratch-made menu, cozy booths, and welcoming atmosphere. Their thoughtful stewardship and public commitment to keeping the vibe intact have reassured loyal customers and reinforced their respect for the restaurant’s heritage.
With support from the SBA, a dedicated team of local bankers, and the expert guidance of Chris Cole, Amber and Cameron are leading Hot Suppa confidently into its next chapter.