Some of the very best restaurants are the unassuming little hole-in-the-wall spots only locals know about. We're talking about unassuming little places that are off the beaten path -- which, in Maine, is a lot of restaurants! Some of the very best restaurants in Maine have stood the test of time, living out their restaurant glory in the same space for decades. These places are humble and unassuming, but have some of the very best food in the state. So bring your appetite and adventure, and check out these seven of the very best hole-in-the-wall restaurants in Maine.
1. Eagles Nest Restaurant, Brewer
Despite the lovely location on the Penobscot River, you might not think to stop at Eagle's Nest. It's worth a drive from Bar Harbor, or stop in while you're near Bangor. We recommend trying the seafood platter. If you do, you'll be faced with finishing a pile of clams, scallops, shrimp and haddock with a side of slaw, and fries. The only real question here will be where to begin!
To learn more, be sure to visit their Facebook Page.
2. Boynton-McKay Food Co, Camden
A visit to Boynton-McKay means friendly faces and some of the best food you'll find in the midcoast. From blueberry pancakes for breakfast to house made pastrami for lunch, you can't go wrong just anything you choose. The setting, in an old pharmacy building, has character that's worth the stop alone. We especially love their breakfast bowls -- sweet and savory perfection!
For more information and to browse/droll over their menu, be sure to visit their Boynton-McKay Food Co. website.
3. Vientiane Market, Portland
Ignoring the fact that Vientiane is a place in Laos, Portland's Vientiane Market serves up a deliciously authentic Thai meal. We won't bother telling you what to order, because you truly cannot go wrong with anything. It's best when you want to grab something quick to go. And, since we can't resist, we recommend the pad Thai, crab rangoon, fresh spring rolls and Yum Nau, which all get great reviews. Hot, warm, comforting Thai food!
For more information, including hours and menu options, be sure to visit Vientiane Market's Facebook Page.
4. Bob's Clam Hut, Kittery
Bob's is known all over the state of Maine -- and for good reason. Their lobster rolls are absolutely amazing. It's face-sized, bursting with fresh, perfectly seasoned lobster -- and you'll happily finish each and every delicious bite.
For more information on this must-visit hole-in-the-restaurant in Maine, be sure to check out our previous article about Bob's Clam Hut.
5. Grammy's Country Inn, Linneus
This unassuming little spot is famous for its huge portions, great prices, and friendly people. They don't call it "comfort food" for nothing. Order up a one of their epic burgers and finish with their famous GIGANTIC whoopie pie. They're known to be over one pound of Maine goodness! Sugar overload, and totally worth it.
Unfortunately, since the time of publication. Grammy's has officially closed its doors.
6. Hug's Italian Sugarloaf ME
If you thought you couldn't get incredible Italian cuisine in Maine, think again. Hug's is basically like a big, warm embrace from Nonna herself. Hug's is a bit out of the way; in fact, it's located about as close to the mountain as you can get without being ON it. For a small spot, they have an impressive selection of wine and beer, along with some of the best pasta dishes you'll find. The pesto bread gets rave reviews as does the service. We like to keep it classic New England, however, and order the seafood linguine.
For more information on Hug's Italian, be sure to check out their Facebook Page --just be prepared for a major pasta craving! (Don't say we didn't warn you!!)
7. J's Oyster, Portland
With a restaurant that's been around as long at J's Oyster, there's sure to be some disagreement among our readers. But, we think this is another perfect example of a "hole in the wall." Located behind the red brick buildings lining Commercial Street, J's sits unassumingly next to the pier. Inside, you'll find a mix of tourists and locals crammed into a space that feels as authentic as it gets in the Old Port. Go when it's busy and you'll feel like the bar area takes up the entire place, but that just makes for more fun! Everything on the menu here is Insta-worthy; but, most importantly, delicious. Their take on a lobster roll is sublime, and will have you licking your fingers afterwards and contemplating whether or not to order another.
Learn more about this Maine institution at J's Oyster's website, where you can stay up-to-date on hours and menu items!
Do you agree with our list of the very best hole-in-the-wall restaurants in Maine? Let us know YOUR favorite Maine eatery in the comments below! And if you've got lobster rolls on your mind, these 11 Maine restaurants will satisfy your cravings!
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