While the Maine Coast is noted for its fabulous seafood and top restaurants, it seems Portland gets all the culinary accolades. Truth is Kennebunkport and Kennebunk have some stellar dining experiences too!
Kennebunkport’s coastal charm and seafood sophistication “spills” over on its dining plates. Bes time to dig in is off-season by the way. Take advantage of the affordable rates at luxury hotels, inns and BnBs, and off season dining deals and happy hours, and more. Many Kennebunkport restaurants remain open year round, no lines or waiting, walk in and enjoy with the locals. Here, a list of personal favorite restaurants in Kennebunkport.
Best Year-Round Restaurants in Kennebunkport
Alisson’s Restaurant situated at the heart of Dock Square. Pub style atmosphere and big screen TVs attracting sports fans to the bar for games. Clam chowder and lobster rolls.
The Boathouse Bar at the Boathouse Waterfront Hotel has a lovely bar and restaurant overlooking the River. Happy Hours here are great (but sometimes unpredictable). But the view is always spot on from the deck, or the inside window bar. Boathouse boasts a raw bar, seafood and even Asian flair menu items.
Stripers Waterside Restaurant at The Breakwater Inn has a riverfront setting with sea views out towards the breakwater – hence the name. While sunsets here are a highlight, the atmosphere and cuisine are great too. With lobster and seafood specials, plus Sunday brunch and happy hour in the bar or outside in Adirondack chairs by the river – Stripers is picture perfect!
Chez Rosa is a classic bistro with fabulous French-inspired fare from fromage & charcuterie, Flaky French onion soup, to pate, cassoulet, duck, finishing with creme brulee! Maine meets Marseille, the Chef Owner couple Kyle and Yazmin are committed to delicious authentic cuisine.
Old Vines Wine Bar is a classic wine bistro and pub in Lower Village Kennebunk. A cozy interior and friendly barkeeps make this a great go-to for drinks, countless wine selections and craft cocktails, and tapas style fare. Old Vines Wine Bar often has live entertainment in their upstairs venue and in their outdoor patio and tent – yes there are bars there too.
Wandby Landing is a new Italian style pasta and grill restaurant located “on the marsh”, formerly On The Marsh. Beautiful bar as well.
Via Sophia by the Sea offers an osteria experience where classic Italian dishes and fresh-from-the-boat seafood combine in a contemporary setting. Sister restaurants to Via Sophia in D.C. Rabbit Hole is the trendy downstairs bar.
Casa Seventy Seven and Ultramar are the latest from Chef German, of Lost Fire success. This new seaside Osteria is at 77 Pier Road, formerly Pier 77 and The Ramp. Comfort food, only upscale with a Cape Porpoise harbor view will do!
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Best Seasonal Restaurants in Kennebunkport
Admiral’s Table is outdoor poolside dining at the Rhumb Line Resort for lobster bakes or a cheeseburger and coold beer or cocktail in a casual setting.
95 Ocean offers water view dining in private cabanas at the Nonantum Resort and often live entertainment. The menu offers fresh fish, lobster, creative Maine dishes, and BBQ. Heckman’s Pub off the Hotel lobby is more casual for a cocktail and pub fare. Summers Latitudes is fun outdoor river view dining by Nonantum’s pool, often with live music.
Earth at Hidden Pond is a cool, earthy setting with a creative open concept culinary scene. Oyster to octopus, lobster to wood-fired meats and fish, its trendy and a real treat.
There you go… Kennebunkport restaurant recommendations from a local Maine resident. I hope you enjoy these restaurants as me! Be sure to leave a comment and share your experience at one of our restaurants in Kennebunk.
For lodging in The Kennebunks, see our Kennebunkport Lodging Guide and our Kennebunkport Events Page for all the goings on all year long in the Kennebunks.
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