4 Best Restaurants in Down East Coast, Maine

The coffee isn't the only thing that's wicked good at this local café; homemade pastries, rich soups, and tasty sandwiches are all prepared daily, and the hot chocolate and chai are worth writing home about. There are nice murals on the walls, too.

In business for many years, the look here is updated and fresh, as the family-run establishment was rebuilt after a fire in 2014; it serves lunch and dinner, with entrées as well as burgers, sandwiches, salads, and the like. While the menu is big on seafood, don't expect only fried: try choices like charbroiled salmon topped with a maple glaze made with mustard, maple syrup, and blueberry jam, all Maine-made. Even before it was a foodie thing, Helen's was sourcing from local farms and waters. House-based goodies include a huge selection of pies and traditional New England hermit bars.

Don't let this no-frills convenience shop’s appearance deter you: lobster and crab rolls are among the homemade grab-and-go offerings in the summer, which also include sandwiches like pulled pork and fish burgers. If you're an early riser, don't miss the breakfast starting at 4 am (6 am Sunday) to join the fishermen. There's a community table near the entrance, and more tables tucked out of view: that's where the lobstermen gather before heading out.

Perched on the water in a shingled building downtown, this popular restaurant serves some of the sweetest scallops you'll ever eat; moqueca (a Brazilian seafood stew); and filet mignon for those so inclined. It's also a great place to grab a glass of wine or a beer at the bar or a cup of coffee while gazing out at the water. If you want the lowdown on where to go or what to see in Lubec, this is the place to ask.