Top 10 Most Famous Restaurants in Maine (Currently Open)
Maine is known for breathtaking coastlines, salt-soaked fishing villages, pine-covered mountains, and postcard-worthy lighthouses—but its food scene is just as iconic. From buttery lobster rolls and fresh-from-the-boat seafood to upscale coastal cuisine and rustic farm-to-table gems, Maine delivers flavors that stay with you long after your visit.
Whether you’re a foodie searching for the next unforgettable meal or a traveler eager to taste authentic local culture, these Top 10 Most Famous Restaurants in Maine offer the best of the state’s culinary talent. These restaurants are currently open, celebrated, and beloved by both locals and visitors.
Let’s dive into the restaurants that define Maine’s flavors and tell the story of its culinary heritage through world-class dishes, coastal tradition, and down-to-earth hospitality.
Eventide Oyster Co. – Portland’s Modern Oyster Icon
Portland’s Eventide Oyster Co. is one of Maine’s most celebrated restaurants, known for its fresh seafood and creative takes on coastal classics.
What Makes It Famous
A stunning variety of fresh oysters
The signature brown butter lobster roll
Creative small plates like scallop crudo and tuna tartare
A trendy yet welcoming atmosphere
Eventide blends modern style with Maine tradition, making it a must-visit for seafood lovers.
Fore Street – Portland’s Wood-Fired Culinary Landmark
Fore Street, a central figure in Portland’s rise as a national food destination, focuses on wood-roasted and farm-driven cuisine.
Why Diners Love It
Wood-fired oven, grill, and turnspit cooking
Farm-to-table dishes inspired by Maine’s seasons
Intimate, rustic-industrial ambiance
A consistently impressive menu that changes daily
Fore Street is a landmark in Maine culinary culture and remains one of the most acclaimed restaurants in New England.
Red’s Eats – Wiscasset’s Legendary Lobster Roll Destination
No restaurant in Maine is more famous for lobster rolls than Red’s Eats in Wiscasset. People line up down the block for what many consider the best—and most generous—lobster roll in the state.
Highlights
Overstuffed lobster rolls overflowing with meat
Fresh lobster caught from local waters
Classic roadside shack charm
A must-experience stop on any Maine coastal trip
Red’s Eats is an essential Maine experience for seafood enthusiasts.
The Lost Kitchen – Freedom’s Globally Acclaimed Hidden Gem
Set in a restored mill in the small town of Freedom, The Lost Kitchen has become world-famous for its intimate dining experience and mail-in reservation system.
Why It’s Iconic
Exclusively local, seasonal ingredients
A magical dining experience in a historic mill
A prix-fixe menu showcasing the best of Maine’s farms and waters
One of the most sought-after reservations in the country
The Lost Kitchen offers an unforgettable meal rooted in Maine’s rural beauty and culinary creativity.
Primo – Rockland’s Farm-to-Table Masterpiece
Located in Rockland, Primo is the creation of chef Melissa Kelly, who elevates farm-to-table dining with artistry and heart.
What Sets It Apart
Ingredients grown on-site at their two-acre farm
Mediterranean-inspired dishes with Maine influence
Exquisite seafood, handmade pastas, and creative desserts
A warm, upscale farmhouse setting
Primo is a culinary destination worth planning your whole trip around.
McLoons Lobster Shack – South Thomaston’s Waterfront Treasure
Located right on the water, McLoons Lobster Shack offers some of the freshest, most flavorful lobster in Maine.
Visitors Love
Lobster rolls made from hand-picked meat
A peaceful, scenic setting on a working lobster wharf
Homemade desserts, including blueberry pies
A relaxed, authentic Maine atmosphere
This is lobster shack perfection—simple, beautiful, and unforgettable.
The White Barn Inn Restaurant – Kennebunk’s Fine Dining Icon
Part of the White Barn Inn resort, this restaurant delivers a luxurious dining experience inside a beautifully restored 19th-century barn.
Expect
AAA Five Diamond Award–winning cuisine
Exceptional service and a romantic atmosphere
Exquisite tasting menus
Dishes that celebrate Maine’s seasonal ingredients
It’s one of Maine’s most elegant dining experiences—ideal for special occasions and culinary adventures.
J’s Oyster – Portland’s Classic Waterfront Hangout
A longtime favorite among locals, J’s Oyster in Portland is famous for its casual atmosphere and fresh, no-frills seafood.
What Makes It Special
Affordable, fresh seafood plates
Lobster stew and fried clams
A lively, welcoming waterfront setting
Generous portions and an old-school vibe
J’s is a Portland staple that delivers authenticity with every bite.
Five Islands Lobster Co. – Georgetown’s Ultimate Dockside Meal
If you want a meal with an unforgettable view, Five Islands Lobster Co. offers one of the most scenic lobster experiences in Maine.
Highlights
Lobster caught in deep, cold waters for exceptional flavor
Iconic dockside setting overlooking Sheepscot Bay
Fresh-cooked seafood, burgers, and hand-cut fries
A beautiful, rugged harbor backdrop
This is coastal Maine at its most authentic and photogenic.
Central Provisions – Portland’s Creative Small Plates Hotspot
Located in Portland’s Old Port, Central Provisions is a stylish restaurant known for its inventive small plates and vibrant energy.
Why Diners Return Again & Again
A constantly evolving menu
Unique combination of flavors and global influences
Cozy, rustic-chic interior
Creative cocktails and expertly crafted dishes
It’s a top choice for foodies who love bold flavors and artistic presentation.
Conclusion: Savor the Flavors of Maine
Maine’s culinary scene is rooted in tradition but elevated by creativity, community, and world-class ingredients. These Top 10 Most Famous Restaurants in Maine—all currently open—represent the very best of the state’s food culture, from upscale fine dining to classic lobster shacks.
Whether you’re exploring Portland’s thriving restaurant scene, enjoying a coastal road trip, or seeking out hidden gems in small towns, these restaurants offer unforgettable experiences worth traveling for.