Explore the coastal charm and vibrant food scene of Maine with this 4-day culinary itinerary, featuring carefully selected spots for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and bonus stops in iconic towns from Kittery to Portland.
Day 1: Kittery – Shop, Dine, and Explore Coastal Maine
Breakfast: Start your day at The Black Birch with a rustic, cozy breakfast offering farm-to-table favorites like avocado toast with Maine-sourced eggs.
Drive Time to Lunch (York): Approx. 15 minutes
Lunch: The local cafe, The Central Bean & Bakery, York specializes in fresh sandwiches and homemade baked goods. Try the clam chowder for a taste of the local fare.
Drive Time to Dinner (Ogunquit): Approx. 20 minutes
Dinner: Enjoy coastal views and fresh seafood at MC Perkins Cove, Ogunquit, a renowned spot. Order the lobster mac ‘n’ cheese for a decadent Maine experience.
Drive Time to Bonus Stop (Kennebunkport): Approx. 20 minutes
Bonus Stop: End the day at Rococo Ice Cream, Kennebunkport with inventive flavors like goat cheese blackberry Chambord for a unique twist on dessert.
Day 2: Kennebunkport and Beyond – New England Charm and Ocean Flavors
Breakfast: The artisanal bakery, Boulangerie, Kennebunk, offers buttery croissants and fresh coffee for a delightful morning start.
Drive Time to Lunch (Biddeford): Approx. 20 minutes
Lunch: Palace Diner, Biddeford is an iconic spot serving classics like the tuna melt and fried chicken sandwich in a retro setting.
Drive Time to Dinner (Portland): Approx. 25 minutes
Dinner: Known for its fresh oysters and famous brown butter lobster roll, Eventide Oyster Co., Portland is a must-visit for seafood lovers.
Drive Time to Bonus Stop: Walk to next stop
Bonus Stop: Sample one of the famous potato donuts at The Holy Donut, Portland with flavors like maple bacon and dark chocolate sea salt.
Day 3: Portland – Explore Maine’s Culinary Hub
Breakfast: Hot Suppa, a Portland favorite, serves up Southern-style breakfast fare like the fried green tomato Benedict and house-made corned beef hash.
Drive Time to Lunch (Freeport): Approx. 20 minutes
Lunch: After shopping in Freeport, stop at the Tuscan Brick Oven Bistro, Freeport for wood-fired pizzas and fresh salads. Their lobster pizza is a standout.
Drive Time to Dinner (Bath): Approx. 30 minutes
Dinner: Savor modern American dishes at the Salt Pine Social, Bath like locally sourced fish tacos and seasonal risotto at this stylish restaurant.
Drive Time to Bonus Stop: Walk to next stop
Bonus Stop: Sample local craft beers at the Bath Brewing Company, Bath with a selection of IPAs, stouts, and ales that capture the flavors of Maine.
Day 4: Rockland – Artistic Eats and Coastal Delights
Breakfast: Home Kitchen Cafe, Rockland is a cozy spot is known for hearty breakfasts like huevos rancheros and homemade cinnamon buns.
Drive Time to Lunch (Camden): Approx. 15 minutes
Lunch: Overlooking Camden Harbor, enjoy local seafood dishes at The Waterfront, Camden like crab cakes and haddock sandwiches.
Drive Time to Dinner (Belfast): Approx. 30 minutes
Dinner: For a taste of Italy in Maine, Meanwhile in Belfast, Belfast offers handmade pasta, wood-fired pizzas, and an array of antipasti dishes.
Drive Time to Bonus Stop: Walk to next stop
Bonus Stop: Pick up artisanal Maine cheeses and gourmet treats at Eat More Cheese, Belfast, a perfect ending to a culinary road trip.
Tips for Your Maine Culinary Adventure
Book Ahead: Many popular Maine restaurants recommend reservations, especially in the summer season.
Sample Local Specialties: Don’t miss out on Maine’s famous lobster rolls, fresh oysters, and potato donuts—essential dishes for any Maine foodie.
Take Scenic Routes: Opt for coastal roads like Route 1 when possible to enjoy beautiful views and discover hidden gems along the way.
This Maine culinary adventure is designed to give you a true taste of the region’s food culture and coastal charm. Enjoy each meal, explore each town, and experience the best of Maine’s culinary landscape.
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