Boothbay Harbor offers visitors stunning ocean views and maritime charm, but also a vibrant culinary scene that celebrates the region’s bounty. From casual seaside shacks to upscale dining establishments, Boothbay Harbor Maine restaurants provide something for every palate and occasion. Whether you’re a seafood enthusiast or looking for international flavors with a local twist, this picturesque coastal town delivers memorable dining experiences against a backdrop of working harbors and rocky shores.
Where to Eat in Boothbay Harbor, Maine: A Guide to Local Favorites
The restaurant scene in Boothbay Harbor balances time-honored traditions with innovative approaches to coastal cuisine. Many establishments take pride in serving locally-sourced ingredients, particularly the day’s fresh catch, prepared with both classic techniques and creative flair. There are more than 50 restaurants in the area, so this alphabetical list (all too good to pick favorites) is just a sample to make your taste buds water.
This multi-level establishment offers both tapas-style dining and traditional Maine fare with Spanish and Mediterranean influences. Boathouse Bistro’s rooftop deck provides stunning harbor panoramas, while their extensive wine and cocktail selections complement the creative menu. Their seafood risottos represent a delightful fusion of Maine ingredients with a cheesy flair.
A favorite among locals, Brady’s serves comfort food classics in a welcoming setting. The lunch and dinner menus boast pulled pork options and pizza alongside seafood entrees. Visit on a Saturday for the Prime Rib special. The unpretentious atmosphere and friendly service exemplify the community-oriented spirit of Boothbay Harbor Maine restaurants.
Housed in a charming historic building, Carriage House Restaurant combines New England tradition with contemporary culinary techniques. Their locally-sourced seafood dishes shine and the intimate dining room with exposed beams and nautical accents creates a quirky atmosphere that complements their refined yet unpretentious menu.
Offering a delightful departure from the abundance of seafood establishments, CHINA By The Sea brings Asian flavors to Boothbay Harbor. Their extensive menu features authentic Chinese and Thai cuisine. The restaurant’s longevity in the community speaks to both the quality of their food and their warm, attentive service that keeps diners returning year after year.
Housed at the Boothbay Harbor Oceanside Resort, Coastal Prime delivers upscale dining with breathtaking views of the harbor. The restaurant specializes in prime steaks and fresh seafood prepared with finesse. The elegant yet comfortable setting makes Coastal Prime suitable for both celebratory dinners and casual meals after a day of exploring.
For a casual bite that doesn’t sacrifice quality, Dunton’s Doghouse serves excellent quick-service fare with a focus on hot dogs, burgers, and fried seafood. This unpretentious spot with a walk-up order window and picnic tables is perfect for families or anyone looking for a satisfying meal between harbor activities.
Guests of the inn are treated to a multi-course breakfast made from scratch every morning. On gorgeous Maine summer mornings, breakfast is served on the porch overlooking the bay. Afternoon tea and baked goods are also included in the room rates for the inn making for a lovely snack before heading out for dinner. If a mouthwatering breakfast and beautifully appointed accommodation aren’t enough, the innkeepers also provide an extensive list of activity ideas for the area.
With one of the harbor’s most enviable waterfront locations, HarborSide 1901 combines spectacular views with approachable cuisine. Their spacious deck provides panoramic harbor vistas including a historical footbridge, making it a prime spot for sunset dining. The menu features quintessential Maine seafood favorites alongside sushi and land meat options.
A harbor institution, McSeagull’s recently elevated their dining experience with a full renovation. Their expansive deck offers prime views of harbor activities, while the interior features nautical decor that celebrates Boothbay’s maritime heritage. The menu covers all the Maine classics-lobster, fried seafood, chowders-executed with consistency and care.
As the name suggests, Mine Oyster excels at showcasing the region’s outstanding shellfish, particularly Maine’s world-class oysters. Their raw bar features several local varieties, each with distinct characteristics reflecting the specific waters where they’re grown. Beyond oysters, their menu offers breaded and deep-fried seafood favorites and wood-fired pizza.
The Pier 6 Tavern at Fisherman’s Wharf Inn combines classic pub fare with spectacular harbor views and live music. Their spacious deck sits directly over the water, providing an immersive harbor experience. The relaxed atmosphere makes this a favorite gathering spot for both locals and visitors.
Owner Sante Calandri brings the flavors of his native Italy to Boothbay Harbor, offering handmade pasta, fresh seafood prepared with Mediterranean flair, and an impressive wine selection. The restaurant’s elegant atmosphere makes it perfect for special occasions, while still maintaining the warm hospitality that defines Boothbay’s dining scene.
Just across the swing bridge on Route 27 is a true working waterfront establishment. Robinson’s Wharf is an unpretentious spot serving incredibly fresh seafood in a casual setting. Their lobster rolls-simple, traditional, and perfectly executed-exemplify the “less is more” philosophy that makes Maine seafood so special.
This beloved establishment occupies a beautifully preserved sea captain’s home dating back to 1861. Their menu showcases creative preparations of local seafood alongside excellent meat options. The historic setting, complete with original architectural details, adds a layer of character to the dining experience that connects guests to Boothbay’s maritime heritage while the friendly patio offers a lovely spot for a cocktail.
Savoring the Best of Boothbay Harbor
What makes restaurants in Boothbay so special isn’t just the exceptional seafood or picturesque settings-it’s the connection to place that infuses every dining experience. Many establishments maintain direct relationships with local fishermen, farmers, and producers, ensuring that what reaches your plate truly represents the region’s terroir. Whether you’re enjoying a lobster roll at a casual dockside shack or savoring fine dining with harbor views, Boothbay Harbor’s restaurants invite you to slow down, connect with the coastal environment, and experience Maine’s culinary heritage one delicious bite at a time.
