10 Best Waterfront Restaurants in Maine
Whether you’re overlooking Casco Bay or taking in the views of York Harbor, Maine’s restaurants by the water take dining to a whole new level. The beauty of the water adds a special ambience to your experience and these Maine restaurants do it exactly right. Here are our favorites.
DiMillo’s On the Water, Portland, ME
DiMillo’s On the Water is actually on the water. The restaurant is a docked, floating ferry. Here patrons enjoy water views from many vantage points. The food is fresh and local. The seafood often comes straight from Casco Bay and the rest is sourced from farms in Maine. Seafood is the specialty here—along with the views.
Warren’s Lobster House, Kittery, ME
Located on the Piscataqua River that flows into Portsmouth Harbor, Warren’s Lobster House is known both for its fresh seafood and its amazing salad bar. Many come for the salad bar alone. Open year-round, the lobster is the highlight, but the scallops run a close second. The service is exceptional, too.
Dockside Restaurant on York Harbor, York, ME
Whether you want a casual lunch or a fancy dinner, you’ll find it at Dockside Restaurant on York Harbor. The view is, of course, that of beautiful York Harbo, where on a sunny day you can seemingly see for miles. The Drunken Lobster Saute comes highly recommended.
Waterfront, Camden, ME
At Waterfront the view is of stunning Camden Harbor. Whether gazing at it filled with sailboats midsummer or its choppy waters in winter, it’s definitely a sight to behold. The sight on your table will be one to behold, too, as you partake of fresh seafood, beef and more. The hearty lobster stew is delicious no matter the season.
High Tide Restaurant and Bar, Brewer, ME
The High Tide Restaurant and Bar is the perfect place for great local seafood and other casual dining options. Sit outside in the warm weather months, but plan accordingly. If there’s a concert at the Bangor waterfront just across the river, fans flock to get the prime seating, as it affords a free view of well-known musical acts. Everyone at the High Tide is friendly and the service is excellent. The view of the Penobscot River is beautiful, too, no matter the season.
Sea Dog Brewing Co., Bangor, ME
Just opposite the High Tide is Brewer sits the Sea Dog Brewing Co. A popular meeting place for drinks and delicious dining, guests enjoy everything from a hearty bowl of chowder to seafood and steak. Burgers and fries are delicious here—thick and hearty on both accounts. The atmosphere is upbeat, but rustic. The view of the Penobscot River is a nice touch, too.
Saltwater Grille, South Portland, ME
Dining near the docks in South Portland always affords a delightful view. That’s part of the reason people flock to Saltwater Grille. The food is the only thing that rivals the view. Dine on fresh seafood or thick steaks. The Grilled Swordfish Steak is divine. The service here is exceptional and it’s a family-friendly spot, so bring the kids for a special outing.
The Dolphin Marina & Restaurant, Harpswell, ME
The 180-degree view at the Dolphin Marina & Restaurant is in itself worth the visit, but the food is what keeps customers returning time after time. Dine on fresh seafood or landlubbers fare while spotting landmarks like Eagle Island, and enjoying the coming and going of countless boats in season. Open April through November, take a drive to Harpswell and experience this Maine spot. Be sure to walk to the end of the point before or after your meal.
Pier 77, Kennebunkport, ME
For exquisite dining with a stunning water view, visit Pier 77. As with most coastal restaurants, seafood abounds, but that’s no reason to negate the rest of the menu. The spaghetti bolognese is exceptional, with its beef, pork, veal and pancetta sauce. The desserts are simply sublime. Be sure to order the butterscotch crème brulee.
Hobbs Harborside Restaurant, Wells, ME
Open year-round, Hobbs Harborside Restaurant provides guests with gorgeous views of Wells Harbor. Surf and Turf is the menu theme, with entrees including lobster prepared a variety of ways, scallops, New York sirloin and chicken cordon bleu.
