Skip to Content

15+ Best Restaurants in Bar Harbor Maine: Your Complete Guide!

Disclaimer: This blog post may contain affiliate links. If you click on one and make a purchase, I will make a small commission, at no extra cost to you. These are products I’ve personally used and stand behind, learn more.

Bar Harbor Maine, best restaurants in Bar Harbor Maine, Bar Harbor restaurants

If you’re taking a trip down the New England Coast, chances are you’ll stumble upon Bar Harbor, Maine. A quaint little town located on Mount Desert Island near the Acadia National Park, Bar Harbour feels like a small seaside retreat. With its stunning Acadia views, sandy beaches, and lobster rolls, Bar Harbor is a must-see.

Hidden from corporate influence, Bar Harbor maintains its small-town charm with locally owned businesses lining its streets. It’s a great spot to explore while chowing down on the local catch of the day. 

One of the most important parts of visiting a new town is trying out all of the local restaurants. That’s why we wanted to round up our 15+ best restaurants in Bar Harbor Maine, so you know where to eat on your next visit!

You’ll find everything from lobster shacks to Italian restaurants. We wanted to make sure that no matter what your preference for the night is, you will find something in this guide!

The Best Restaurants in Bar Harbor Maine 

18) The Travelling Lobster 

Bar Harbor Maine, best restaurants in Bar Harbor Maine, Bar Harbor restaurants, the travelling lobster

Image via The Travelling Lobster Facebook Page

One of the most charming parts of Bar Harbor is its lobster shacks. To kick off the best restaurants in Bar Harbor Maine, we have The Travelling Lobster.  This establishment is a family-owned business that’s been operating since the 70s. Hours vary based on the season (they are also open on certain days during winter!). The Travelling Lobster is an amazing place to get the freshest lobster rolls and clam chowder. They also offer a fresh lobster bake for dinner. 

Seating is all outdoors on picnic tables which gives it a relaxed atmosphere and food is first come first serve. If you’re looking for authentic New England seafood (and arguably the best lobster roll in town), The Travelling Lobster is a must!

Location: 1569 ME-102, Bar Harbor, ME 04609

Hours: Varies based on the season – check out their Facebook page for updated hours 

Price $: $6 – $11

Website: https://thetravelinlobster.com

 

17) Side Street Cafe 

Bar Harbor Maine, best restaurants in Bar Harbor Maine, Bar Harbor restaurants, side street cafe

Image via the Side Street Cafe Facebook Page

Located in the heart of Bar Harbor, Side Street Cafe is a local favorite! This charming restaurant prides itself on its award-winning Mac & cheese (comes in a variety of options including seafood), unique margaritas, fish tacos, and specialty burgers. With a lively and entertaining atmosphere, Side Street Cafe is a must-visit when you’re in Bar Harbor! 

Bar Harbor Maine, best restaurants in Bar Harbor Maine, Bar Harbor restaurants, side street cafe

Seafood Mac & Cheese via the Side Street Cafe Facebook Page

Make sure you check out their website for their seasonal happy hour! Their unique margaritas are always changing by the month which gives them a unique and fun flair!

Bar Harbor Maine, best restaurants in Bar Harbor Maine, Bar Harbor restaurants, side street cafe

Image via the Side Street Cafe Facebook Page

Location: 49 Rodick St, Bar Harbor ME, 04609

Hours: Varies based on the season – check out their Facebook page for updated hours 

Price $: Varies however it’s affordable!

Website: https://www.sidestreetbarharbor.com

 

 

16) Geddy’s

Bar Harbor Maine, best restaurants in Bar Harbor Maine, Bar Harbor restaurants, Geddy's 

Geddy’s is a local seafood pub offering everything from the fresh catch to burgers and vegetarian options. There’s something for everyone at Geddy’s which makes it a great spot to eat. Located right in downtown Bar Harbor, Geddy’s has been serving comfort food for over 40 years. 

With water views, Geddy’s prides itself on having the best Maine lobster in town along with their popular yellowfin tuna. You’ll feel right at home at Geddy’s who’s open during the summer season.

Bar Harbor Maine, best restaurants in Bar Harbor Maine, Bar Harbor restaurants, Geddy's

Location: 19 Main Street, Bar Harbor, Maine 04609

Hours: Varies based on the season – check out their Facebook page for updated hours 

Price $: $7-$45

Website: https://geddys.com

  

 

15) Jordan Pond House 

One of the top things to do near Bar Harbor is taking a trip to Acadian National Park. With its local wildlife, scenic views, rocky beaches, and granite peaks it’s worth spending time exploring!

Bar Harbor Maine, best restaurants in Bar Harbor Maine, Bar Harbor restaurants

Beautiful Acadia National Park via Jordan Pond House 

If you’re in the area stop by Jordan Pond House for a bite. Located on a hill overlooking Jordan Pond, they are known for their tea and popovers (light muffins). They also offer heartier meals like lobster stew, vegan Stew, and Clam Chowder.

They don’t take reservations, and given the popularity of the park, Jordan Pond House can get pretty busy! Make sure you stop there early to secure a table!

Bar Harbor Maine, best restaurants in Bar Harbor Maine, Bar Harbor restaurants, Jordan Pond House

Outdoor seating via Jordan Pond House

Location: 2928 Park Loop Rd, Seal Harbor, ME 04675, USA

Hours: Varies based on the season – open during summer primarily

Price $$: $8-$25

Website: https://jordanpondhouse.com

 

 

14) Reading Room Restaurant

Bar Harbor Maine, best restaurants in Bar Harbor Maine, Bar Harbor restaurants, reading room restaurant

Image via The Reading Room Restaurant

Located in the Bar Harbor Inn, a luxury hotel with stunning views of Frenchman Bay, the Reading Room Restaurant offers great food and a fine dining experience in Bar Harbor. Known for their creamy Maine Lobster Bisque and Frenchman Bay Seafood Cioppino, it’s the perfect place to grab a bite, drink Maine Blueberry Sangria, and watch the fishing boats. 

Bar Harbor Maine, best restaurants in Bar Harbor Maine, Bar Harbor restaurants, reading room restaurant

Fresh Blueberry Pie via The Reading Room Restaurant 

Don’t forget dessert! The Reading Room Restaurant also offers a wide range of seasonal desserts that you need to save room for!

Location: 1 Newport Dr, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, United States

Hours: Varies based on season 

Price $$$: $15- $50

Website: https://barharborinn.com/dining/reading-room/

 

13) La Bella Vita

Bar Harbor Maine, best restaurants in Bar Harbor Maine, Bar Harbor restaurants, la Bella vita

Image via La Bella Vita 

La Bella Vita is the best place to get Italian food in Bar Harbor! Located in the Harborside Hotel Spa & Marina, this restaurant combines authentic Italian cuisine with garden-fresh ingredients to give guests the perfect menu. La Bella Vita transports you to the Italian coast with their earth tones, mosaics, and outdoor patio dining with views of the Harbor. 

Bar Harbor Maine, best restaurants in Bar Harbor Maine, Bar Harbor restaurants, la Bella vita

Image via La Bella Vita 

Open for breakfast and dinner, they are known for their delectable pasta and flatbreads!

Location: 55 West St, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, United States

Hours: Varies based on season 

Price $$: $8- $40

Website: https://www.theharborsidehotel.com/bar-harbor-restaurants/la-bella-vita/

 

12) Paddy’s Irish Pub

Paddy’s Irish Pub, located in the West Street Hotel is a popular spot with a spectacular waterfront setting and great Irish-American cuisine. Located on the northeast side of the harbor, Paddy’s boasts a fun atmosphere with live music and a variety of comfort foods.

Bar Harbor Maine, best restaurants in Bar Harbor Maine, Bar Harbor restaurants, Paddy's Irish Pub

Image via West Street Hotel Facebook Page

Paddy’s offers a diverse menu, so if you have any picky eaters in the family, this is a spot to try. Be sure to order their mussels and the lobster bisque! 

Location: 50 West St, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, United States

Hours: Varies based on season 

Price $$: $8- $40

Website: https://www.theweststreethotel.com/bar-harbor-restaurants/paddys/

 

 

11) Jeannie’s Great Maine Breakfast

If you’re looking for the best breakfast in town then Jeannie’s is the place to go! Located in downtown Bar Harbor, they open right at sunrise, so you can always get a bite before your big day ahead.

 

Jeannie’s has everything from classic breakfast options to vegan meals. They also offer a wide range of locally influenced menu items like their Lobster omelet and Lobster eggs Benedict. No matter what type of food your craving there’s something for you!

Location: 15 Cottage Street, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, United States

Hours: Open every day at sunrise

Price $: $5- $15

Website: https://www.jeanniesbreakfast.com

 

 

10) The Chart Room

The Chart Room is a cute and casual restaurant that serves up classic New England seafood, pasta, and even prime rib! Sitting right on the Harbor, the outdoor patio will give you stunning views as you chow down.

Bar Harbor Maine, best restaurants in Bar Harbor Maine, Bar Harbor restaurants, The Chart Room

Image via The Chart Room Facebook Page

The Chart Room has been in business for over 20 years, serving both local and traveling visitors. Its laid-back atmosphere drives home the classic New England feel. The restaurant owners also run the neighboring Tide Watch Cabins. A perfect place to stay on the edge of Acadia National Park.

Bar Harbor Maine, best restaurants in Bar Harbor Maine, Bar Harbor restaurants, The Chart Room

Image via The Chart Room Facebook Page

Known for their blueberry pie and large seafood dishes, The Chart Room is a must-eat!

Location: 565 Eden St, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, United States

Hours: Daily 11:30 am – 9:00 pm

Price $: $7 – $35

Website: https://chartroombarharbor.com

 

 

9) McKays Public House 

Bar Harbor Maine, best restaurants in Bar Harbor Maine, Bar Harbor restaurants, McKays Irish Pub

Image via McKays Public House Facebook page 

McKays Public House is a favorite local restaurant set in a classic Victorian building on Main Street. Serving organically grown produce and locally caught seafood, McKays offers a wide range of local dishes mixed with comfort foods to warm the soul. 

Bar Harbor Maine, best restaurants in Bar Harbor Maine, Bar Harbor restaurants, Mckays Irish Pub

Image via McKays Public House Facebook page 

If you prefer to eat outside, McKay’s has an outdoor garden you can eat in. It’s a great patio during the summer season. If you stop by, try out their short rib and risotto. 

Location: 231 Main St, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, United States

Hours: Open Tuesday – Friday starting at 4:30 pm

Price $: $8 – $35

Website: https://www.mckayspublichouse.com

 

8) Thirsty Whale Tavern 

The Thirsty Whale Tavern or the “Whale” as the locals love to call it, is a great place in Bar Harbor to grab a bite to eat during the day and a hot spot at night. Serving a wide variety of pub fare with a New England twist, The Whale attracts locals and tourists alike. 

Bar Harbor Maine, best restaurants in Bar Harbor Maine, Bar Harbor restaurants, thirsty whale Tavern

Image via the Thirsty Whale Facebook Page

If you’re looking for a cool beer to cool off with the Thirsty Whale offers fourteen draught lines featuring local and regional craft beer. If it’s a nice day, you can enjoy your drink in their back patio beer garden. 

Bar Harbor Maine, best restaurants in Bar Harbor Maine, Bar Harbor restaurants, thirsty whale tavern

Image via the Thirsty Whale Facebook Page

Location: 40 Cottage St, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, United States

Hours: Open 11 am–1 am year-round

Price $: $9 – $25

Website: https://www.thirstywhaletavern.com

 

 

7) Havana 

Bar Harbor Maine, best restaurants in Bar Harbor Maine, Bar Harbor restaurants, Havana

Image via the Havana Facebook Page

Havana is a restaurant serving fine dining American cuisine with a touch of Latin flare! Havana takes care in serving local and organic meats and seafood, while ensuring all of their local produce and livestock is humanely raised and sustainably sourced.

Bar Harbor Maine, best restaurants in Bar Harbor Maine, Bar Harbor restaurants, Havana

Image via the Havana Facebook Page

Known for their delectable seafood paellas (as featured above) and tapas, they are the perfect place to have a meal.

Location: 318 Main St, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, United States

Hours: Open 5 days a week (closed Monday & Tuesday)

Price $$: $6 – $50

Website: https://www.havanamaine.com

 

 

6) C-Ray Lobster

C-ray Lobster is a local no-frills lobster shack off the beaten path serving the fresh catch of the day! With its outdoor picnics, it’s the perfect place to eat fresh seafood!

Bar Harbor Maine, best restaurants in Bar Harbor Maine, Bar Harbor restaurants, C-Ray Lobster

Image via C-ray Lobster’s Facebook Page 

Serving fresh lobsters, mussels, steamers, and littleneck/cherrystone clams it’s a good place to go to get the fresh catch! If you’re looking for something heartier they also offer lobster rolls, clam chowder, crab rolls, sandwiches, local beer/wine, and homemade blueberry pie!

Bar Harbor Maine, best restaurants in Bar Harbor Maine, Bar Harbor restaurants, C-Ray Lobster

Image via C-ray Lobster’s Facebook Page 

It’s a perfect casual dining spot for a quick bite!

Location: 882 State Highway 3, Bar Harbor, ME

Hours: Open during the summer season

Website: https://www.c-raylobster.com

 

 

5) Route 66 Restaurant

If you want to be transported back to the 50s, Route 66 is a must-see! Jammed packed with 50s inspired diner memorabilia, Route 66 is a memorable place to eat!

Bar Harbor Maine, best restaurants in Bar Harbor Maine, Bar Harbor restaurants, Route 66 Restaurant

Image via Route 66 Facebooks Page 

From handcrafted burgers to fresh main lobster, Route 66 offers one of the biggest menus in Bar Harbor! If you’re stopping by for dinner be sure to try their slow-roasted BBQ ribs and their fresh Maine seafood pasta dishes, like their lobster Mac and cheese.

Bar Harbor Maine, best restaurants in Bar Harbor Maine, Bar Harbor restaurants, Route 66 Restaurant

Image via Route 66 Facebooks Page (Lobster Mac & Cheese)

Don’t forget to wash your meal down with their classic 50’s style milkshakes before you go!

Location: 21 Cottage St, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, United States

Hours: Open every day 11 am | May – October

Website: https://www.barharborroute66.com

 

 

4) Project Social Kitchen & Bar 

Bar Harbor Maine, best restaurants in Bar Harbor Maine, Bar Harbor restaurants, Project Social Kitchen and Bar

Project Social Kitchen & Bar is a modern restaurant and cocktail bar located in downtown Bar Harbor, Maine. Known for its small plates and happy hour, this restaurant is the perfect place to stop by after a hike in Acadia National Park!

Featuring bright and colorful decor, Project Social Kitchen offers its patrons various outdoor dining spaces to enjoy their food!

Bar Harbor Maine, best restaurants in Bar Harbor Maine, Bar Harbor restaurants, Project Social Kitchen and Bar

Their menu features a wide range of craft cocktails that are perfect on a hot summer day along with small bites that are sure to hit the spot!

Location: 278 Main Street, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, United States 

Hours: Varies based on the season (open only in summer)

Website: https://www.socialbarharbor.com

 

 

3) Galyn’s 

The best restaurants in Bar Harbor Maine wouldn’t be completed without Galyn’s! The building dates back to 1890s, where it was a boarding house for local seafarers. During prohibition, an illegal speakeasy occupied the downstairs! A lot of the original architecture has been maintained to give Galyn’s an authentic Maine feel.

Bar Harbor Maine, best restaurants in Bar Harbor Maine, Bar Harbor restaurants, Galyn's

Image via Galyn’s Facebook Page 

Galyn’s menu features a wide range of options from fresh Maine seafood, crab cakes, vegetarian options, and everything in between. They also offer seasonal dishes based on fresh produce (see their lobster enchiladas below!)

Bar Harbor Maine, best restaurants in Bar Harbor Maine, Bar Harbor restaurants

Lobster Enchiladas via Galyn’s Facebook Page 

Location: 17 Main St, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, United States

Hours: Varies based on season, check the website

Price $: $6 – $30

Website: https://www.galynsbarharbor.com

 

 

2) The Terrace Grill

Bar Harbor Maine, best restaurants in Bar Harbor Maine, Bar Harbor restaurants, the terrace grill

Image via the Terrace Grill Facebook page

Located in the Bar Harbor Inn, The Terrace Grill is one of Bar Harbor’s quaint waterfront restaurants. Located right on the water, the Terrace Grill offers views of Frenchman Bay and Porcupine Islands. If you want a laid-back atmosphere with the coveted Maine views this is a place to stop by!

Order their lobster bake which includes steamed mussels and clams, 1 ¼ pound freshly caught Maine Lobster with roasted red potatoes, corn on the cob, blueberry cornbread and finished with a slice of fresh blueberry pie! 

Location: 1 Newport Dr, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, United States

Hours: Varies based on season

Price $$: $13 – $45

Website: https://barharborinn.com/dining/terrace-grille/ 

 

 

1) The Barnacle 

Bar Harbor Maine, best restaurants in Bar Harbor Maine, Bar Harbor restaurants, the barnacle

Image via The Barnacle Facebook page

Since we’re rounding up the best restaurants in Bar Harbor Maine, we had to include an Oyster bar! The Barnacle is a popular oyster and cocktail bar located right downtown Bar Harbor! Known for their freshly shucked oysters and Oysters Rockefeller, The Barnacle is a place to stop after a long day of sightseeing.

Bar Harbor Maine, best restaurants in Bar Harbor Maine, Bar Harbor restaurants, the barnacle

Image via the Barnacle Facebook page

Location: 112 Main St, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, United States

Hours: Varies based on season, open during the summer season

Website: https://thebarnaclebarharbor.com

 

The Top Cafes in Bar Harbor

One of the most important meals of the day is breakfast, and sometimes it needs to be quick and on the go! If you’re looking for a great place to get a coffee and a bite check out these cafes!

1) Cafe This Way 

Cafe this Way is a cute cafe tucked into a quiet side street. With retro furnishings and books lining their walls, it’s the perfect spot for a quiet break from the excitement in downtown Bar Harbor. They offer eclectic options for breakfast and dinner seven days a week, like Kit’s Breakfast Burrito.

Bar Harbor Maine, best restaurants in Bar Harbor Maine, Bar Harbor restaurants, cafe this way

Image via Cafe This Way Facebook page

Cafe This Way has an amazing outdoor patio space where you can enjoy good eats and amazing coffee. They offer everything from an espresso blend to a roasted Maine bean. If you decide to opt for hair of the dog, they also offer a wide range of breakfast cocktails. 

Bar Harbor Maine, best restaurants in Bar Harbor Maine, Bar Harbor restaurants, cafe this way

Image via Cafe This Way Facebook page

Their dinner menu also offers a wide range of international dishes and classic New England fair!

Location: 14 1/2 Mt Desert St, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, United States

Hours: 

Breakfast: Mon-Sat 7-11:30 and Sunday 8-1 pm

Dinner: Tuesday – Saturday 5:30 – 9 pm

Website: https://www.cafethisway.com

 

2) Choco-Latte

Bar Harbor Maine, best restaurants in Bar Harbor Maine, Bar Harbor restaurants, chocolate-latte

Image via Choco-latte Facebook page

Choco-latte is the perfect place to stop if you’re on the go and need your coffee fix! They offer gourmet chocolates, house-made bagels, breakfast sandwiches & paninis, espresso, and of course the freshest organic coffee (roasted in Acadia)! If you’re up early and ready for a jammed-packed day, stop by Choco-latte for a quick bit! 

Location: 240 Maine Street, Bar Harbor, Maine

Hours: 7 am – 6 pm daily

Website: https://www.choco-lattecafe.com

 

 

Best Places To Get Ice Cream!

We couldn’t round up the best restaurants in Bar Harbor Maine and leave out Ice Cream!

1) Mount Dessert Ice Cream

Bar Harbor Maine, best restaurants in Bar Harbor Maine, Bar Harbor restaurants, mount dessert ice cream

Image via Mount Dessert Ice Cream Facebook page 

Mount Dessert Ice Cream is the best place to go for a cool treat on a hot summer’s day! All of their ice creams are hand-made on-site and made with real fresh ingredients. Named the best ice cream in New England in 2016 by Yankee Magazine, they offer a wide range of classic and unique flavors! 

Location: 7 Firefly Ln, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, United States

Hours: Varies, open in spring and summer 

Website: https://www.mdiic.com

We hope you enjoyed all of these recommendations on the best restaurants in Bar Harbor Maine. If you’re heading down the New England coast, make sure to stop by and try out some of these good eats!

Stopping by Portland, Maine? If so check out our 15+ Best Restaurants in Portland Maine: Your Complete Guide!