Help Chef Jordan Save Mé Lon Togo

We're reaching out to ask for your support for our dear friend, Jordan Benissan — the heart and soul behind Mé Lon Togo, a beloved West African restaurant in Freeport, Maine.

Chef Jordan is originally from Togo, a vibrant country on the Gulf of Guinea in West Africa. A master drummer and teacher of polyrhythmic music, he came to Maine in the 1990s to teach at Colby College. Though far from home, Jordan found a way to stay connected to his roots: through food.

Longing for the flavors of his childhood and the communal spirit of shared meals, Jordan began cooking for friends and hosting dinner parties. His culinary creations quickly gained a loyal following, thanks to his authentic flavors, generous hospitality, and the unmistakable joy he brings to every meal. With encouragement from his community, he turned his passion into a full-fledged restaurant: Mé Lon Togo — which means "I love Togo."

Mé Lon Togo isn’t just a restaurant. It’s an experience — one filled with the sounds, smells, and warmth of West Africa. Jordan often comes out of the kitchen to chat with guests, tell stories, or even play a few rhythms on the drum. It’s a gathering place, a cultural bridge, and a celebration of community.

But now, Mé Lon Togo is facing a serious challenge.

Jordan recently invested in renovating the Freeport location to better serve his guests. Unfortunately, the contractor he hired performed work that was not up to code and lacked the necessary permits. As if that wasn’t enough, the contractor has now filed a lien on the property, leaving Jordan with unexpected legal fees and repair costs — all while trying to keep his dream alive.

We are raising funds to help Jordan:

Cover legal expenses to fight the lien

Fix the contractor’s mistakes to bring the space up to code

Ensure Mé Lon Togo stays open and thriving for the community that loves it

Jordan has poured his heart and soul into this restaurant. Let’s come together to support someone who has given so much to others — through his food, his music, and his generosity.

Every donation, no matter the size, helps. Thank you for standing with Jordan and helping to preserve a vital piece of Maine’s culinary and cultural landscape.

With gratitude,

Friends of Mé Lon Togo