Top 10 Restaurants in Maine | 1262

Maine’s culinary scene is known for its fresh seafood, especially its world-famous lobster. However, the state offers a wide variety of dining options beyond seafood, from farm-to-table bistros to fine dining establishments. Here are the top 10 restaurants in Maine, each offering a unique and memorable dining experience.

1. Fore Street (Portland)

Fore Street is one of Maine’s most iconic restaurants, offering wood-fired, rustic cuisine that highlights fresh, local ingredients. The open kitchen and industrial-style décor create a warm, inviting atmosphere. Their menu changes seasonally, with a focus on seafood, meats, and vegetables cooked over hardwood coals.

2. Eventide Oyster Co. (Portland)

A must-visit for seafood lovers, Eventide Oyster Co. is renowned for its fresh oysters, lobster rolls, and innovative takes on New England classics. Their famous brown butter lobster roll is a unique twist on a local favorite, and their raw bar offers a variety of oysters from the coast of Maine.

3. Primo (Rockland)

Located on a working farm, Primo in Rockland offers a true farm-to-table dining experience. Chef Melissa Kelly, a James Beard Award winner, focuses on sustainable, organic ingredients sourced from the restaurant’s gardens and farm. The menu is seasonally driven, and the dishes are elegantly plated, combining local flavors with a Mediterranean flair.

4. The Lost Kitchen (Freedom)

The Lost Kitchen is one of the most sought-after dining experiences in Maine. Located in a restored mill, the restaurant’s reservation system is unique—diners must send postcards for a chance to secure a spot. The menu is ever-changing, focusing on fresh, local ingredients sourced from nearby farms and the wild.

5. Central Provisions (Portland)

Central Provisions offers a small-plate dining experience, perfect for sharing with friends. The menu blends global influences with locally sourced ingredients, offering a variety of creative dishes. With a cozy, vintage atmosphere and a well-curated cocktail menu, Central Provisions is a favorite for casual but sophisticated dining.

6. Street & Co. (Portland)

Street & Co. is a Mediterranean-inspired seafood restaurant that’s been a staple in Portland for decades. With a focus on simple yet flavorful preparations, Street & Co. serves up some of the best seafood dishes in town. The casual yet elegant setting, complete with exposed brick walls and dim lighting, adds to the charm.

7. The White Barn Inn (Kennebunk)

The White Barn Inn Restaurant is a fine dining establishment located in a beautifully restored barn. Known for its luxurious atmosphere and exquisite dishes, the restaurant offers a prix-fixe menu that focuses on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. With impeccable service and an elegant setting, it’s perfect for special occasions.

8. Red’s Eats (Wiscasset)

For a quintessential Maine experience, Red’s Eats is the place to go. This small, unassuming shack has gained legendary status for its massive lobster rolls, which are packed with fresh, sweet lobster meat. Red’s is a must-visit for anyone passing through Wiscasset, offering an authentic taste of Maine’s seafood heritage.

9. McLoons Lobster Shack (South Thomaston)

McLoons Lobster Shack offers one of the best lobster rolls in Maine, served in a scenic seaside setting. Located right on the waterfront, diners can enjoy their meal with stunning views of the ocean. The lobster is fresh from the nearby traps, ensuring the highest quality seafood experience.

10. Long Grain (Camden)

For those looking for something different, Long Grain in Camden offers an Asian-inspired menu that blends traditional Thai flavors with local ingredients. This small, cozy restaurant is known for its fresh, flavorful dishes, including house-made noodles and curries, making it a standout in Maine’s culinary scene.

FAQs About Dining in Maine

1. What is Maine’s signature dish?

Maine is best known for its lobster, particularly lobster rolls, which are served in many variations throughout the state. Fresh seafood, including oysters, clams, and scallops, is also a staple.

2. When is the best time to visit Maine for food lovers?

The summer and early fall are the best times to visit Maine for food lovers. This is when lobster season is at its peak, and many farm-to-table restaurants feature fresh, seasonal produce.

3. Are Maine restaurants kid-friendly?

Many casual restaurants in Maine, such as Red’s Eats and McLoons Lobster Shack, are family-friendly and perfect for a laid-back meal with kids. Fine dining establishments may not be as suitable for young children, so it’s best to check ahead.

4. Can I find vegetarian or vegan options in Maine?

Yes, many restaurants in Maine, especially those focused on farm-to-table dining, offer vegetarian and vegan options. Restaurants like Primo and Central Provisions often feature creative plant-based dishes using fresh, local ingredients.

5. Do I need to make reservations at Maine’s top restaurants?

It’s highly recommended to make reservations at fine dining establishments like Fore Street, Primo, and The White Barn Inn, especially during peak tourist season. For casual spots like Red’s Eats, expect long lines during busy times.

6. How much should I expect to spend at a fine dining restaurant in Maine?

Fine dining restaurants in Maine, such as The White Barn Inn or Fore Street, can cost between $75 to $150 per person, depending on the courses and wine selections.

7. What is the tipping culture in Maine restaurants?

Tipping in Maine follows the standard U.S. practice of leaving 15-20% of the total bill for good service in restaurants.

8. What seafood should I try besides lobster in Maine?

Besides lobster, Maine offers a variety of delicious seafood, including scallops, oysters, mussels, and clams. The state’s cold waters make it an ideal environment for fresh, high-quality seafood.

9. Are there any iconic food festivals in Maine?

Yes, Maine hosts several food festivals, including the Maine Lobster Festival in Rockland, where visitors can enjoy lobster and other seafood delicacies, along with live music and cultural events.

10. Can I find international cuisine in Maine?

Yes, Maine has a diverse dining scene that includes international cuisines such as Thai (Long Grain), Italian, French, and Mexican. Many chefs in Maine incorporate local ingredients into global dishes for a unique fusion experience.

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