10 Best Maine Restaurants

Maine is famous for iconic dishes such as lobster rolls, whoopie pies, blueberries, chowder, baked beans, fiddleheads, fluffernutters, and moxie. Famous food in Maine includes lobster, one of the state's primary foods, with Maine supplying 80% of the world’s lobster, making Maine renowned for roadside lobster shacks and superior lobster rolls. Maine’s cooking techniques focus on simplicity, using methods like steaming, baking, and stewing to highlight fresh flavors. The traditional Maine lobster bake and the use of wild blueberries and fiddleheads showcase the state's unique culinary heritage. Visitors come to experience the best food in Maine, characterized by fresh seafood, local ingredients and sustainable practices.

Maine's state dishes are the whoopie pie and blueberry pie. The whoopie pie is the official state treat since 2011, and the blueberry pie, made with wild Maine blueberries, is designated as the official state dessert. Maine’s state food, the whoopie pie, was invented in 1925 and consists of two chocolate cake-like rounds with a white cream filling. Blueberry pies feature a flaky crust filled with sweet, tangy wild blueberries, harvested from late July to early September. The state berry, wild blueberry, was designated in 1991, the state herb, wintergreen, in 1999, and pure Maine maple syrup is recognized as the state sweetener. These dishes and ingredients offer distinctive flavors and traditions that make up the state food of Maine and are celebrated as Maine state dish staples.

The average cost of a meal in Maine depends on the restaurant type ranging from $4 to over $150. In a budget restaurant, a single meal typically costs between $4 and $20 per person. Mid-range meals usually fall within the $20 to $40 range. Group meals at budget restaurants are generally priced between $30 and $60, while group meals at higher-end restaurants can range from $60 to $150 or more. Expect to pay between $50 and $100 per person at fine dining restaurants in Maine, particularly for multi-course meals featuring premium ingredients such as lobster or fine steaks. Maine fine dining establishments often highlight fresh, local ingredients, including seafood, wild blueberries, and maple syrup, which can contribute to the higher cost. 

The most popular fast-food restaurants in Maine are listed below: 

• Dunkin': Known for coffee, donuts, and breakfast sandwiches, with 163 locations across Maine.
• Subway: Famous for customizable subs and salads, with 135 locations in Maine.
• McDonald's: Renowned for burgers, fries, and iconic Big Macs, with 62 locations in Maine.
• Burger King: Famous for flame-grilled burgers, including the Whopper, with 36 locations in Maine.
• Starbucks: Known for specialty coffee drinks and pastries, with 31 locations across Maine.
• Domino's: Specializes in pizza and quick delivery, with 25 locations in Maine.
• Dairy Queen: Famous for soft-serve ice cream, Blizzards, and fast food, with 24 locations in Maine.
• Taco Bell: Known for Mexican-inspired fast food, including tacos and burritos, with 20 locations in Maine.
• Pizza Hut: Known for pan pizzas, pasta dishes, and wings, with 17 locations in Maine.
• Kentucky Fried Chicken: Famous for fried chicken and comfort food, with 17 locations in Maine.
• Wendy's: Known for square burgers, spicy chicken nuggets, and frosty desserts, with 16 locations in Maine.

The newest restaurants in Maine are listed below: 

• Anju: Enjoy Korean-inspired dishes like ramen and pickled tofu at Anju, known for house-made pork bun, located at 7 Wallingford Sq., Kittery.
• Bao Bao Dumpling House: Creative dumplings such as kung pao chicken at Bao Bao Dumpling House, a popular spot for lunch and late-night bites at 133 Spring St., Portland.
• Blue Rooster Food Co.: Gourmet sandwiches and hot dogs with unique condiments, found at 5 Dana St., Portland.
• Bramhall Pub: Hearty pub fare like beer-braised sausage and prosciutto-wrapped salmon, offering great drink specials at 767 Congress St., Portland.
• Central Provisions: Small plates like crab and waffles and roasted bone marrow, an order-as-you-go eatery at 414 Fore St., Portland.
• David’s KPT: Diverse dishes from chowder to Catalan seafood stew with harbor views, located at 21 Ocean Ave., Kennebunkport.
• Dutch’s: Breakfast and lunch favorites like egg sandwiches and the Big D hot dog, situated at 28 Preble St., Portland.
• Ebb & Flow: Mediterranean-inspired seafood dishes like charred octopus and grilled branzino, featuring a crudo bar at 100 Commercial St., Portland.
• Magissa: Opened in May by Nancy Klosteridis and Emily Otero, Magissa offers contemporary Greek dishes with excellent service, delightful desserts, and moderate prices, located in 91 Anderson St, Portland.
• Cantina Calafia: Launched in March at Pine and Brackett Streets, Cantina Calafia stands out with distinctive style and inventive dishes like savory crab churro and goat cheese flan, situated at 46 Pine St, Portland.
• Ocotillo: Initially a brunch-only spot, Ocotillo now serves happy hour and dinner, featuring Mexican and Texan flavors, with a Mushroom Breakfast Taco recognized by The New York Times, found at 211 Danforth St, Portland.
• First Fig: Opened in February by Joana Sparks, First Fig in Camden is a combo cafe, wine bar, and shop, known for natural wines, snacks, espresso, and weekend appearances by Taqueria Max, located at 31 Elm St Camden, Maine. 
• Finestkind: Launched in September in Saco by Victoria and Tom Barthelmes along with Chris and Paige Gould, Finestkind is a popular daytime cafe offering house-made baked goods, sandwiches, and the Maine Grains Bowl, found at 70 Perkins Cove Rd, Ogunquit.
• Circumstance: Opened in May in Swanville near Belfast, Circumstance by Chef Khristopher Hogg serves an inventive seasonal menu that reflects craft, creativity, and a sense of place, situated at 15 Ledge Rd. in Swanville. 

Maine's restaurant scene is popular for the use of fresh, local ingredients, especially seafood like lobster, oysters, and clams, sourced directly from the state's clean waters. The state’s focus on farm-to-table practices ensures dishes reflect Maine's culinary heritage and unique flavors. Visitors can find lobster shacks, fast food, local hangouts, and fine farm-to-table restaurants, with various places to eat in Maine offering many dining options. Bar Harbor’s freshly caught shrimp, scallops, crab, haddock, flounder, clams, and oysters are delivered, cooked, and served straight from the boat, offering endless sea-to-table dining experiences. Luke’s Lobster is considered an institution and one of the must-visit seafood restaurants in Maine. Other places to eat in Maine include The Lost Kitchen, which offers locally sourced ingredients in a cozy, rustic setting, the Eventide Oyster Co., known for fresh oysters and creative seafood dishes in a modern, casual atmosphere, and Chaval, which features Spanish and French-inspired cuisine filled with seasonal, locally sourced ingredients.

The best farm to table restaurants in Maine are listed below: 

• Farm Table: Located in Wake Forest, Farm Table has been a community staple since 2014, known for the dedication to supporting local growers and offering a true farm-to-table experience.
• Eighteen95 at The Portland Regency Hotel & Spa: This Portland gem offers Contemporary American cuisine in an elegant setting, featuring delightful brunch options and creative breakfast cocktails.
• Little Tap House: Also in Portland, Little Tap House is celebrated for exceptional farm-to-table dishes, cozy atmosphere, and commitment to locally sourced ingredients.
• Primo: Celebrating 25 years in 2024, Chef Melissa Kelly’s restaurant in Rockland is at the forefront of the farm-to-table movement. During peak season, 80% of the menu ingredients are grown on-site, and sustainability practices like composting food waste are integral to operations.
• Aragosta: Located on the edge of Stonington Harbor, Chef Devin Finigan’s restaurant is founded on principles of local and fresh ingredients. The ever-changing menu is a testament to close collaboration with local fishermen and farmers.
• The Lost Kitchen: In Freedom, Chef Erin French, a James Beard Foundation Award nominee, creates magic with locally sourced ingredients, with her humble approach belies the culinary excellence.
• Miyake: Offers eclectic creations featuring locally raised proteins and locally grown produce, attracting fans worldwide.
• Sur Lie: This tapas-style restaurant in Portland focuses on the bounty of locally sourced ingredients, offering a social dining experience.
• Nezinscot Farm Café: A James Beard America’s Classics Award winner in 2023, this Turner café prepares breakfast and lunch using the freshest ingredients grown and harvested on-premise or sourced from local farms.
• Pop-Ups at Wolfe’s Neck Farm and Elmcrest Farm: Throughout the year, working farms like Wolfe’s Neck and Elmcrest collaborate with incredible chefs for one-night-only farm-to-table dining experiences.

The best coastal Maine restaurants are listed below:

• McLoons Lobster Shack: Located in South Thomaston, McLoons Lobster Shack offers quick bites and American cuisine, including grilled clams, lobster rolls, and blueberry bread pudding. 
• Erica's Seafood: Situated in Harpswell, Erica's Seafood specializes in American and seafood dishes. Popular items include scallop and haddock baskets with regular and sweet potato fries. 
• Dolphin Marina & Restaurant: This Harpswell restaurant offers American and seafood dishes with stunning views. The menu includes exceptional chowder, shrimp, scallop, and salmon dishes. Diners can enjoy their meals on the Maine restaurants on the water or the Blue Moon Deck.
• Blue Moon Café: Located in Boothbay Harbor, Blue Moon Café serves American cuisine and café-style dishes. Popular breakfast items include French toast and bacon, as well as breakfast burritos. The café is known for lobsters and steamers.
• Five Islands Lobster Co: Five Islands Lobster Co in Georgetown is known for quick bites and American cuisine. Diners can enjoy steamed clams, lobster meals, and European cucumber cups with Maine lobster salad.
• Boathouse Bistro Tapas Lounge & Restaurant: This midcoast Maine restaurant offers American cuisine and a variety of tapas. The menu includes substantial lobster tail salad and other seafood items.
• La Bella Vita - Samoset Resort: Located in Rockport, one of the best restaurants midcoast Maine serves Italian and Tuscan cuisine. The restaurant offers dishes like mushrooms with truffle oil and fresh arugula, with a focus on fresh and flavorful ingredients.
• Boothbay Lobster Wharf: Situated in Boothbay Harbor, the restaurant specializes in quick bites and American cuisine. The menu includes blackened haddock tacos and lobster rolls with claws, not chopped up.
• Red's Eats: Located in Wiscasset, Red's Eats is famous for its quick bites and American dishes. The lobster rolls, onion rings, fries, and fried clams are highly recommended.
• Peter Ott's on the Water: This Camden restaurant offers American and seafood dishes with waterfront restaurants Maine views. The halibut and lobster Alfredo are standout dishes. 
• Waterfront: Also in Camden, Waterfront serves bar and seafood dishes. The menu includes lobster rolls, mussels, and gazpacho. Desserts like the Reese’s Peanut Butter Sundae are also popular.
• River Ducks Ice Cream: Located in Camden, this dessert spot offers a variety of American-style ice creams. Wild cherry and other unique flavors are available, making a great spot for a sweet treat.

Restaurants in Maine that serve vegan food include Bagel Central, Fancy Plants, Harvest Moon Deli, Mughal Palace, Bom Dia Café, and Crown Jewel. Bagel Central in Bangor offers vegan baked goods, bagel sandwiches, and soups, with a tofu cream cheese option. Fancy Plants provides a fully vegan experience, where a private chef prepares plant-based meals for up to eight people at clients' homes. Harvest Moon Deli in Newport offers vegan sandwich options and salads that can be customized by omitting cheese. Mughal Palace in Chelsea specializes in Indian cuisine, with a range of vegan dishes like channa masala, samosas, and vegetable curries. Bom Dia Café in Portland serves açai bowls, smoothies, and avocado bagels. Crown Jewel, also in Portland, offers a seasonal menu with vegan options, including Beyond Meat burgers and vegan mushroom ravioli

Restaurants in Maine that serve gluten-free food include Rivalries, Island Lobster Co., Wildflour GF Bakery, Bandaloop, 104 Main Public House, and Yolked Food Truck. Rivalries, with locations in Falmouth and Portland, offers gluten-free meals such as chicken wings, chili, and quesadillas. Island Lobster Co. on Peaks Island serves gluten-free fried calamari. Wildflour GF Bakery in Brunswick specializes in gluten-free baked goods, including cupcakes, cakes, cookies, and pies. Bandaloop in Arundel offers gluten-free dishes like Wilted Fall Spinach Salad and Skillet Steamed Marshall Cove Mussels. 104 Main Public House in Topsham features gluten-free options such as crispy fried wings, Irish nachos, and deviled eggs. Yolked Food Truck in Windham offers a full gluten-free menu, including the popular Yolked Burger.

Yes, restaurants in Maine are healthy, with many emphasizing farm-to-table dining, where fresh, locally sourced ingredients are the foundation of their menus. Establishments like Vinland on Congress Street focus on serving organic, local food that supports sustainability and wellness. Luke's Lobster, Eventide Oyster Co., and The Lost Kitchen also prioritize fresh, nutritious ingredients, often featuring seafood, seasonal produce, and healthy cooking methods. Other spots, such as Wild Oats Bakery & Cafe, Fresh & Co., and Chase's Daily, offer health-conscious options that highlight plant-based meals and locally sourced seafood, making Maine a great destination for those seeking healthy dining experiences.

Yes, Maine is a great destination for food, particularly known for fresh seafood like lobster, and local produce. Portland, often called a "foodie town" in New England, stands at the heart of the state's culinary scene. Maine has many innovative restaurants, craft breweries, and a growing number of award-winning chefs particularly in Portland, living up to its reputation as a "restaurant city." The city features a variety of dining options, with Inner Washington Avenue housing more than 20 eateries. These spots are all within a five-minute walk of each other, which makes exploring easy and sample the best of Maine has to offer in one visit.

The famous Maine cuisines are listed below:

• New England Cuisine: Known for seafood, especially lobster, clam chowder, and other shellfish.
• American Cuisine: Featuring comfort foods like meat pies, fried chicken, and hearty stews, often with a focus on locally sourced ingredients.
• Seafood Cuisine: With the coastline, Maine is famous for seafood dishes, including lobster rolls, fried clams, and mussels.
• Farm-to-Table Cuisine: Many Maine restaurants emphasize locally grown vegetables, meats, and dairy products, creating seasonal dishes based on what’s fresh.
• French Cuisine: Influenced by Maine’s Acadian heritage, including dishes like poutine and French-inspired seafood offerings.
• Italian Cuisine: Italian-American dishes such as pasta, pizza, and seafood, often with a Maine twist.
• European Cuisine: Various European cooking styles can be observed, especially French and Mediterranean, with a focus on fresh ingredients from Maine's land and sea.
• American Regional Cuisine: Maine has its own regional flavors with dishes influenced by its maritime heritage, such as Maine-style baked beans and blueberry-based dishes.
• Fusion Cuisine: Many chefs in Maine blend traditional flavors with modern techniques, combining seafood with other global influences like Asian or Latin American flavors.

The type of food that Maine usually offers are seafood, farm-fresh produce, and local specialties. Seafood is the star of Maine’s culinary offerings, with lobster being the most commonly used seafood. Popular food in Maine such as lobster dishes include the lobster roll, where lobster meat is served cold with mayonnaise in a toasted bun; lobster pie, a baked dish featuring lobster meat with a buttery Ritz cracker topping; and lobster bakes, in which lobster is steamed over seaweed along with other shellfish like clams and mussels. These dishes are prepared using techniques such as steaming, baking, and grilling. 

Farm-fresh produce also plays a vital role in Maine’s food culture, and the state is known for wild blueberries, which are used in various baked goods like blueberry pancakes. Local specialties include Maine Italian sandwiches, a sub-style sandwich made with ham, cheese, pickles, and other vegetables; whoopie pies, a dessert made of two cake-like cookies filled with a sweet, marshmallow-like filling; and Indian pudding, a cornmeal and molasses-based dessert, round out the diverse offerings of the state. These dishes reflect the New England and Colonial culinary influences in the state.

Yes, Maine has several unique restaurants like the Cabbage Island Clambakes, Calzolio Pasta Co., Chaval, Dimillo's on the Water, Earth at Hidden Pond, Ebeneezer's Pub, and Young's Lobster Pound. These unique places to eat in Maine offer unforgettable experiences. The Cabbage Island Clambakes offers an authentic Maine clambake experience on a ferry ride; Calzolio Pasta Co. in Wilton blends authentic Italian cuisine with Maine favorites by Wilson Pond; Chaval, is a European-inspired restaurant in Portland, led by Chef Damian Sansosonetti.

Dimillo's on the Water is one of the popular unique restaurants in Maine, which provides a meal aboard a converted boat. Earth at Hidden Pond in Kennebunkport offers a breathtaking dining experience in one of the country's most picturesque settings. Ebeneezer's Pub in western Maine is a world-renowned beer bar, the perfect spot for a meal and camping adventure. Young's Lobster Pound in Belfast provides a unique food experience, allowing guests to enjoy Maine lobster meal in a relaxed, picnic-style setting surrounded by beautiful views.