Two Renowned Diners in Maine Get National Recognition

While we know that our restaurants and diners up here in Maine are spectacular, these two diners have been recognized as some of the best in the country!

And really, this is just the tip of the iceberg—Maine’s food scene as a whole is super underrated. Sure, our seafood is world-renowned (and rightfully so), but we’re way more than just lobster rolls and clam chowder.

So, with that in mind, who’s giving this national recognition to these iconic Maine spots? What kind of recognition are they receiving, and what criteria is being used?

LoveFood compiled their list of America’s best classic diners by considering authentic user reviews, industry awards, and their own team’s firsthand experiences. The goal was to highlight beloved retro spots that capture the charm, comfort, and cultural significance of the classic American diner.

Read More: Maine's Best 'Hole-In-The-Wall' Restaurant Has a Cult Following

Alright, now that we’ve covered that— which two classic Maine diners were recently named among the best in the country?

According to LoveFood and their recent list, ‘These Are America’s Best Classic Diners,’ two Maine diners made the cut: coming in at 22nd place is the A1 Diner in Gardiner, and taking the 2nd spot is Palace Diner in Biddeford.

As highlighted in this list, Gardiner’s A1 Diner—built in 1946—is a standout for its charm, history, and eclectic menu.

LoveFood continues by highlighting its pastel yellow exterior, blue vinyl booths, weekly-changing Sunday brunch, and standout dishes like fish tacos and a scallop BLT.

The Palace Diner in Biddeford may be small—just 15 seats inside a vintage 1927 red trolley car—but its limited menu packs a serious punch.

As said by LoveFood, every dish is a hit, with the tuna melt hailed as ‘life-changing’ and the Palace Potatoes earning a devoted following.

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And there you have it! Maine is home to two of the best classic diners in America: A1 Diner in Gardiner and Palace Diner in Biddeford.

What are your thoughts on these picks from LoveFood? What’s your favorite diner in our state? We’d love to hear from you—feel free to join the conversation by messaging us on the app!

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