2 Best Restaurants in Harpswell, The Mid-Coast Region

Dolphin Marina and Restaurant

$$$ Fodor's choice

At the end of Harpswell Neck—next to the Dolphin Marina, where diners often arrive by boat—this popular restaurant serves one of the best fish chowders on the coast. Take in the excellent views through a wall of windows or from the outdoor deck as you enjoy your equally excellent chowder—or your lobster stew, crab or lobster roll, or chicken or beef entrée.

515 Basin Point Rd. South, Harpswell, Maine, 04079, USA
207-833–6000
Known For
  • exceptional food and service
  • blueberry muffins come with fish chowder and lobster stew
  • spectacular seaside setting
Restaurants Details
Rate Includes: Closed Nov.–Apr.

Cook's Lobster and Ale House

$$$

What began as a lobster shack in 1955 has grown into a large, well-known, family-style restaurant with a sizable menu that is predictably heavy on local seafood (lobster boats unload their catch at a dock here) but also has plenty of choices for landlubbers. A shore dinner will set you back close to $50, but you won't leave hungry after a 1¼-pound lobster, steamed clams, drawn butter, and corn on the cob. If you want to focus just on the lobster, you can order a bug weighing up to 5 pounds! Whether you choose indoor or deck seating, you can watch as the lobstermen come and go and the boats sail across the bay. Expect this place to be packed at the height of the season. 

68 Garrison Cove Rd., Bailey Island, Maine, 04003, USA
207-833–2818
Known For
  • traditional Maine seafood fare prepared simply
  • great water views
  • live music and a festive atmosphere in the summer
Restaurants Details
Rate Includes: Closed Mon. and Tues.