Have you ever heard of the famous New England cuisine and wanted to discover its unique flavors right in its “cradle”? Maine, a beautiful state in the New England region, is not only famous for its majestic natural landscapes but also a culinary paradise with countless wonderful restaurants. Let “Du lịch khắp thế gian” (Travel Around the World) take you to explore the New England cuisine restaurants in Maine, where you can fully enjoy the culinary quintessence of this region.
Discovering the Distinctive Flavors of New England Cuisine in Maine
New England cuisine is a delicate blend of fresh seafood, local produce, and traditional recipes. Coming to Maine, you will immerse yourself in a rich culinary world, from creamy and flavorful clam chowder, to delicious and rich lobster rolls, or famous steamed lobster.
Delicious Maine lobster, a key ingredient in New England cuisine.
Maine, with its long coastline and abundant seafood resources, is considered the heart of New England cuisine. Maine lobster is world-renowned for its sweet, firm meat and is an indispensable ingredient in many signature dishes of the region. Besides lobster, Maine is also famous for clams, scallops, cod, and many other fresh seafood.
Top Restaurants Not to Miss When Enjoying New England Cuisine in Maine
To help you have the best culinary experiences in Maine, “Du lịch khắp thế gian” (Travel Around the World) would like to introduce a list of the most loved New England cuisine restaurants, where you can fully discover the distinctive flavors of this region.
Eventide Oyster Co. – A Haven for Fresh Seafood
If you are a fan of fresh seafood, especially oysters, then Eventide Oyster Co. is definitely a must-visit destination. This restaurant is famous for its fresh oysters, carefully selected from the Maine and New England sea regions. Eventide Oyster Co.’s menu is extremely diverse, from raw oysters, grilled oysters to creatively prepared seafood dishes, imbued with modern New England style. The brown butter lobster roll is also one of the most popular dishes, with a unique and irresistible flavor.
- Address: 86 Fore St, Portland, ME 04101
- Website: https://www.eventideoysterco.com/
J’s Oyster – Traditional Flavors in a Cozy Space
J’s Oyster is a long-standing seafood restaurant in Portland, Maine, famous for its cozy, classic atmosphere and menu of traditional New England dishes. Coming to J’s Oyster, you will enjoy clam chowder, steamed lobster, baked scallops, and many other classic seafood dishes, prepared according to family recipes, preserving the original flavors. The restaurant’s raw oyster bar is also a highlight, where you can enjoy fresh oysters with a cool cocktail.
- Address: 5 Portland Pier, Portland, ME 04101
- Website: https://www.jsoyster.com/
The Clam Shack – Experience Casual Seaside Dining
To experience New England cuisine in the most authentic and approachable way, come to The Clam Shack, a famous seaside eatery in Kennebunkport, Maine. The Clam Shack offers a simple, rustic space, with basic wooden tables and chairs and views of the vast blue sea. Here, you can enjoy the famous lobster roll, made with fresh lobster, sandwiched in crispy toasted bread, served with french fries and coleslaw. In addition, the shack also serves fried seafood (fried clams, fried shrimp), clam chowder, and many other fast food dishes, very suitable for a light lunch or dinner.
- Address: 2 Western Ave, Kennebunkport, ME 04046
- Website: https://www.clamshack.net/
Dining area at a top New England restaurant in Maine.
Red’s Eats – Maine’s Lobster Roll Icon
When it comes to the best lobster roll in Maine, Red’s Eats, a small roadside eatery in Wiscasset, is a must-mention. Red’s Eats is famous for its giant lobster roll, filled with fresh, delicious lobster meat, simply prepared but extremely appealing. The eatery is often crowded, especially in the summer, and you may have to queue for a long time to buy this famous lobster roll. However, the wait will definitely be worth it when you enjoy the wonderful flavor of this iconic dish.
- Address: 41 Water St, Wiscasset, ME 04578
- Website: https://www.redseatsmaine.com/
McLoons Lobster Shack – Enjoy Lobster by the Beautiful Coast
McLoons Lobster Shack is a beautiful seaside restaurant on Spruce Point Island, Boothbay Harbor, Maine. This restaurant offers an airy space with views of the clear blue bay and charming small islands. At McLoons Lobster Shack, you can enjoy steamed lobster, lobster roll, clam chowder, and many other fresh seafood dishes while admiring the romantic sea view. This is an ideal place for you to enjoy New England cuisine and enjoy the fresh air and wonderful natural scenery of Maine.
- Address: 315 Island Ave, Spruce Point, Boothbay Harbor, ME 04538
- Website: https://www.mcloonslobster.com/
Fore Street Restaurant – Upscale New England Cuisine
If you want to experience New England cuisine at a higher level, come to Fore Street Restaurant in Portland, Maine. This restaurant is famous for its “farm-to-table” culinary style, using fresh, seasonal ingredients from local farms and suppliers. Fore Street Restaurant’s menu changes seasonally, offering creative, sophisticated dishes that harmoniously combine traditional New England flavors and modern culinary styles. The restaurant’s space is luxurious and cozy, with a large wood-fired oven as a unique highlight.
- Address: 288 Fore St, Portland, ME 04101
- Website: https://www.forestreet.biz/
Street & Co. – Mediterranean Flavors in the Heart of Maine
Street & Co., a sister restaurant of Fore Street Restaurant, offers a unique culinary experience, combining fresh Maine seafood and Mediterranean flavors. This restaurant is famous for its grilled seafood, seafood pasta, and dishes with a strong Italian, French, and Spanish influence. Street & Co.’s space is cozy and romantic, with soft yellow lights and rustic brick walls. This is an ideal place for romantic dates or cozy family dinners.
- Address: 235 Fore St, Portland, ME 04101
- Website: https://www.streetandco.net/
Fresh lobster dish at a New England restaurant.
Gilbert’s Chowder House – Excellent Clam Chowder with Rich Seafood Flavor
Gilbert’s Chowder House is a famous family-run eatery in Portland, Maine, specializing in famous clam chowder. Gilbert’s Chowder House’s clam chowder is prepared according to a family recipe, with fresh clams, potatoes, bacon, and fresh cream, creating a smooth, rich, and unforgettable flavor. This eatery has a simple, cozy space, imbued with local style, and is a favorite destination for both locals and tourists.
- Address: 92 Commercial St, Portland, ME 04101
- Website: https://www.gilbertschowderhouse.com/
Conclusion
Maine is not only an attractive tourist destination with beautiful natural landscapes but also a culinary paradise with wonderful New England cuisine restaurants. From casual seaside eateries to upscale restaurants, Maine can cater to all your preferences and budgets. Plan your culinary trip to Maine today to discover and fully enjoy the distinctive flavors of this beautiful New England region. Surely, the culinary experience in Maine will be an indispensable part of your journey to discover the culture and people here.