Eat Your Way Through Maine: 30 Incredible Restaurants Not in Portland

There’s been a monumental shift in Portland, Maine, since the turn of the century.

The city has transformed into an East Coast tourism hotspot, with its swanky hotels, popular shopping district, fun activities, and vibrant culture.

However, what really makes Portland stand out is the incredible food scene that seems to keep improving every day.

The city has embraced this foodie culture and done a wonderful job of promoting it to Mainers and tourists alike. As they should — it’s legit.

All of Maine is a Foodie Destination

But 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.

What are Maine's Best Restaurants Outside of Portland?

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.

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: 20 Must-Try Under-the-Radar Spots in Portland, Maine

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

Enjoy.