Where to Eat in Bar Harbor Maine

The entire state of Maine is known for it’s fresh and tasty seafood. But I bet you’re wondering, Where are the best places to eat in Bar Harbor, Maine? Whenever I’m traveling to a region, I try to find out what delicacy they are famous for. If they are known for it – it’s because they do it right.

I had the pleasure of trying out some delicious local cuisine! Eating can be the best part of traveling to a location. Want to know where to eat in Bar Harbor , Maine? Let me share with you the best places that I found while visiting there!

• The Looking Glass
• The Fish House
• Coffee Hound Coffee Bar
• Paddy’s
• Rosalies Pizza

First of all, all foodies need to get this book. It’s a travel foodie bible!

Eat at “The Fish House” in Bar Harbor

This restaurant has outdoor seating on a beautiful dock that hangs over the Harbor.  The view is so instagram worthy! Dan was our server and recommended some typical coastal classics. The atmosphere is a very casual space overlooking Bar Island. I ordered Two Maine crab cakes served with a spicy roasted red pepper & garlic remoulade. Wow, this homemade sauce does not disappoint! It’s on the spicier side, but perfectly compliments the crispy crab cakes. I did not share this dish. It was too delicious.

Because I was still hungry and it was my first time eating in Maine, I ALSO ordered the Spicy Shrimp Po’ Boy. It was fried shrimp on a grilled hoagie roll with coleslaw & tomatoes topped with that same famous spicy remoulade. I kind of regret not asking for some of that spicy sauce to take home! Tip: order more sauce!

Bar Harbors, Coffee Hound Coffee Bar

This shop is located directly on Main street. This was my personal favorite little spot in Bar Harbor. These people really understand coffee culture without the slightest hint of pretentious atmosphere. You feel welcome as soon a you walk in and smell the fresh coffee. They also serve a few artisan pastries that really elevate the coffee experience.

Order your coffee in a ceramic local mug and don’t pass up the blueberry pie! It was like a delightful maine style empanada! I could spend hours here sipping coffee and “people watching” as everyone walk up and down main street.

Paddy’s in Bar Harbor, Maine

Here you will get a tiny taste of Maine’s seafood without stuffing your face. Our waitress Kinsey, was so friendly and helpful in adding to our culinary experience. I had a chilled Maine lobster with a  jumbo prawn cocktail, and squeezed that grilled lemon all over it. Mmmmmm. It tasted so much better, sitting across the street from the Bay. You feel the salty breeze swirl around you and listen to the gawking seagulls in the background.

This place is legit. After we finished eating, a gentle rainstorm moved across the bay. That moment so beautiful, I had a full belly and a full content heart. Paddy’s is a little treasure of a place – be sure to sit outside!

Rosalies Pizza in downtown Bar Harbor, Maine

Do you need a place to get scrumptious quick food? Try out this cute location named “Best Pizza” by Bar Harbor Times. Take the food to go and have a picnic in the park, just down the street. The summer weather in Maine just begs for a picnic! I ordered a simple cheese pizza and a giant classic Lobster Roll. You can’t go wrong by ordering pizza and the local delicacy.

The pizza was alright (I mean, it’s pizza, you can’t go wrong.) but the lobster roll was very good. It tasted like I got the freshest catch of the day!

The Looking Glass of Bar Harbor

I saved the best for last! The Looking Glass is (in my humble opinion) THE BEST restaurant in Bar Harbor, Maine. It is a classy upscale breakfast with a view that will take your breath away. There is a quick breakfast sandwich that looks plain but is packed with freshness and flavor! With spiced pork sausage links and melty gouda cheese over a lightly toasted and buttered fresh baked english muffin, you’ll devour it!

Now the best item on the menu (in my humble foodie opinion) was the Grilled Maine Blueberry Muffins. The blueberries from Maine are incredible! They are in season in the summer and more sweet than tart. And who slices and grills a muffin? A genius, that’s who. Go try it out and dine outside in the Looking Glass Patio!

Bonus Advice

Something I really like to do when traveling is find a local supermarket and check out the deli. Local supermarkets will have prepared food that the locals eat – it helps you understand the culture you are visiting. In Maine we stopped by a local supermarket called “Hannaford”. They had Bar Harbor style Pasta salad. It was nothing like my local pasta salad and I loved it! I took some to go and ate it on the sailboat.

Shopping local is also a great alternative to those big restaurant meals (which also come with a big restaurant bill!) Save money, eat healthier and enhance your travel experience by shopping local.

More Bar Harbor

Eating well can enhance your trip experience. Remember to always try the local delicacy. Stay hungry for more adventure. I also have a great post on What To Do In Bar Harbor Maine (The best activities & attractions) and Where to Stay In Bar Harbor (which tell you the best hotel in Maine!)

Don’t forget to follow my travel photos on Instagram!

xo