A Maine coast town renowned for its rugged natural beauty, history steeped in maritime culture, and rich arts scene, Rockland has a little something for everyone. One of the most surprising offerings of this small, postcard-perfect town is the robust selection of restaurants in Rockland, ME.
As you might expect, due to its location on the water, incredible seafood is abundant. However, that's just the tip of the foodie iceberg here — the diversity of restaurants and cuisine styles available in Rockland Maine, and the surrounding region might just surprise you!
Just a scenic 20-minute drive from Rockland Harbor in Spruce Head, The Causeway restaurant offers outstanding ocean views and is open year-round (a bit of a rarity among Rockland ME restaurants!). The Causeway is a true standout, distinct for its unique twist on local classics and the high-quality, locally-sourced ingredients it uses in its dishes. For example, the menu features delightfully unexpected haddock empanadas alongside rich, savory Maine Lobster Poutine, which includes cheese curds and lobster gravy. The restaurant also hosts tasting dinners and other special events.
Patrons can choose to dine in one of three beautiful spaces: the main dining room, which has panoramic ocean views; the gallery, which features an intimate fireplace and local artwork; or the deck, which is actually open year-round and stocked with heaters and blankets. The Causeway is open Thursday through Sunday year-round and Thursday to Monday in the summer, and reservations are highly recommended.
What really makes The Causeway one of the most unique and best restaurants near Rockland Maine is the option to turn dinner into an overnight or weekend getaway at the attached inn. Instead of just a date night or a meal with your best friend, why not sneak away for the weekend and enjoy Midcoast Maine's unique combination of amazing scenery, gastronomy, tranquility, and outdoor adventure?
Book a stay at the historic Craignair Inn by the Sea, where you'll enjoy high-end touches, locally- and sustainably-sourced details throughout the property, and personalized attention and service — a Midcoast signature.
Specializing in "delicious comfort pub food," Waterworks has a warm, inviting atmosphere that will bring you back again and again. The intimate, family-friendly restaurant is the perfect spot for a casual birthday celebration or catching up with friends. Come hungry, as the menu focuses on share-able appetizers and the restaurant offers a long list of local draft beers to pair with them. Popular options include jalapeno cheddar poppers, beef skewers marinated in beer (appropriately called "Brewski Skewers"), and the legendary fish and chips. Enjoy the new outdoor seating options on their recently added open-aired deck, too!
An unexpected treasure, The Block Saloon, is a delectable place to find creative craft cocktails, wine, brunch, or dinner. Tucked away in Thomaston, Maine, this place has a wonderful menu that changes weekly, so there is always something new and fresh for your enjoyment. If you are looking for an intimate, cozy spot to connect with friends and family, then this restaurant and bar is a great choice.
Ada’s is one of the best restaurants near Rockland Maine if you love made-from-scratch Italian food...and let's be honest, who doesn't?! Located in the heart of Rockland's downtown, Ada's Kitchen is here to serve Midcoast Maine with affordable, delicious, and authentic Italian food using the finest local and imported Italian ingredients. Truly, every dish is a star, but to make things even better, it's one of the most centrally-located restaurants in Rockland ME. It's in a perfectly walkable location and close to the coast, so you can easily add a visit to any Rockland itinerary.
You're probably expecting to find great seafood and Italian food in coastal Maine, but West African cuisine? Not so much. An absolute gem adored by locals, Mé Lon Togo is warm, casual, and lively, and offers a menu filled with unexpected delights. Think dishes that combine ingredients such as plantain and sweet potato, rich stews, and aromatic sauces made from peanuts and anise. There's also plenty of seafood, a nod to Midcoast Maine. The restaurant is open for dinner Thursday through Sunday.