Boothbay
harbor
Perched right on the edge of the sea, the charming village of Boothbay Harbor offers the very best of Maine. Where else can you find a quaint seaside village that combines stunning natural beauty with everything you could want in a pedestrian friendly downtown? Check out our great restaurants, shops and galleries, outdoor recreational activities such as boat tours and kayak rentals and our world class live entertainment venues.
When in Maine, you gotta have lobstah, and there's no better place than one of our waterfront lobster shacks. It doesn't get any fresher than the Boothbay Lobster Wharf located directly on a pier on the east side of the harbor. Here you will find all sorts of fried and fresh fish in addition to their specialty, steamed whole lobster (Insider Tip: Ask for a shedder or soft shell, they're a lot easier to deal with. But, order a slightly bigger size because they don't have as much meat as in the hard shells).
From fish markets, where you can bring home live or cooked lobsters, to fine dining at beautiful waterfront restaurants, there is something for every taste.
If you're into lobster rolls, check out Shannon's Unshelled and Dunton"s Dog House. Both are small food shacks with limited outdoor seating, that serve fantastic Maine lobster rolls. Served on a fresh hot dog bun with mayo, these traditional lobster rolls can't be beat. For something a little different, check out the rooftop deck at the Boathouse Bistro. Renowned chef Karin Guerin serves a decadent Lobster Thermador that combines fresh lobster with gruyere cheese and a secret sauce. (along with an eclectic menu of tapas and worldwide culinary delights.
Lobstah
We are more than just lobster though, and have over 25 restaurants in town including Ports of Italy, named one of the top 50 restaurants in Maine. Ports is known for its consistently awesome traditional Italian cuisine and fine service.
Restaurants
Owner Sante Calandri, brings over 30 years of experience, having worked in some of the finest restaurants in Italy and New York City. He, and chef Fabrizio Ventricini, have created what is arguably the area's most popular restaurant, by "focusing on the simplicity of each dish, while surprising guests with all the bold yet perfectly mixed flavors". The atmosphere is casual, in keeping with the tone in Boothbay, yet the excellent service is traditional. Reservations are suggested.
Another new local favorite is Harborside Tavern. Overlooking the water, Harborside offers some of the area's best and most creative seafood and comfort food dishes in a upscale, casual setting. Owner and chef Fiona Dunlap, sources all of her food locally, going so far as to have specific varieties of veggies grown locally just for the restaurant. The food is superb and well-priced. Her fish tacos are stuffed with fresh local haddock, and known as the best anywhere. Other great downtown spots include; The Thistle Inn, Kaler's and Mine Oyster.
The Food Scene
More info coming soon...