From the Coast to the Mountains: 30 Incredible Maine Restaurants Outside of Portland

Sure, we all know that Portland has become one of the best food destinations in the nation. Heck, I write about it all the time.

And it’s a legit reputation. Portland has a wonderful food scene, with so many incredible restaurants and bars representing a diverse range of cuisines. But it should be pointed out that Portland isn’t the only food game in Maine.

Is the Entire State of Maine a Foodie Destination?

So, what about the rest of the state? Shouldn't it be garnering similar respect? Of course it should.

We love spending countless hours discussing and dissecting every detail of the Maine restaurant scene. Whether it's Central Maine, Bar Harbor, the Midcoast, the Western Foothills, or the Southern Coast, this state is an absolute gold mine.

With that in mind, I thought it’d be fun to highlight some of Maine’s best restaurants outside of its largest city — spots that not only serve great food but also offer exceptional service and a welcoming ambiance.

Maine’s restaurant scene has become a national powerhouse, and one that people are eager to experience. So, we put out the call for the places Mainers say check all the boxes — just not in Portland.

Now, thanks to our stations' social media, we can finally put some names to those beloved establishments.

What are Some of the Best Restaurants in Maine Outside of Portland?

Below is a list of many of the restaurants that were suggested to us. They vary in size, concept, and location. Some have opened recently, while others have been community staples for years. But they’re all true Maine originals, and each one is located outside of the Forest City.

READ MORE: Iconic Belfast, Maine, Eatery Named One of the Best Vegetarian Restaurants in the Nation

Listen, I’ve got nothing against Portland. Sometimes, we just need to shine a light on the rest of this wonderful state.

Enjoy.