Introduction
Ellsworth, Maine, a charming town nestled in the heart of Down East Maine, often serves as a convenient gateway for adventurers heading to the majestic Acadia National Park. But beyond its prime location, Ellsworth holds a delightful secret: a surprisingly diverse and delicious food scene. Far from being just a pit stop, Ellsworth offers a culinary journey that caters to every palate, from hearty breakfasts to decadent desserts. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or simply looking for a satisfying meal, this guide will take you on a flavorful adventure through the very best food Ellsworth Maine has to offer. Prepare to be amazed at the variety and quality hidden within this unassuming Maine town. This is your ultimate resource for discovering the best places to eat in Ellsworth Maine.
Start Your Day Right: Breakfast & Brunch Delights
No trip is complete without starting your day off right. Thankfully, Ellsworth doesn’t disappoint.
Morning Glory Diner: A Classic American Breakfast
For a truly classic American breakfast experience, look no further than Morning Glory Diner. This beloved local spot exudes a warm, inviting atmosphere, perfect for fueling up before a day of exploring. Imagine sinking into a comfortable booth, surrounded by the comforting aroma of freshly brewed coffee and sizzling bacon. Morning Glory Diner’s menu is a testament to traditional breakfast fare, with generous portions that are sure to satisfy even the heartiest appetite.
Their signature breakfast dishes are a must-try. Fluffy pancakes, golden brown and drizzled with maple syrup, are a perennial favorite. If you’re craving something savory, the eggs Benedict are a decadent indulgence, featuring perfectly poached eggs atop toasted English muffins, smothered in creamy hollandaise sauce. Omelet lovers will be delighted by the endless customization options, allowing you to create your own culinary masterpiece with a variety of fresh vegetables, cheeses, and meats.
What truly sets Morning Glory Diner apart is its commitment to using fresh, local ingredients whenever possible. You can taste the difference in every bite, knowing that you’re supporting local farmers and producers. Plus, with its friendly service and affordable prices, Morning Glory Diner is a true gem in Ellsworth’s breakfast scene.
The Grind House: Coffee, Pastries, and Light Bites
If you prefer a lighter, more casual start to your day, The Grind House is the perfect choice. This cozy cafe and bakery offers a delightful array of freshly baked pastries, aromatic coffee, and satisfying breakfast sandwiches. Stepping into The Grind House is like entering a warm hug, filled with the enticing aroma of freshly ground coffee beans and sweet treats.
Their selection of pastries is a feast for the eyes and the taste buds. From flaky croissants and delicate danishes to decadent muffins and rich brownies, there’s something to satisfy every sweet craving. Pair your pastry with a perfectly brewed cup of coffee, made with locally roasted beans for an extra dose of flavor.
For a more substantial breakfast, The Grind House offers a variety of breakfast sandwiches, made with fresh ingredients and served on toasted bagels or croissants. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic bacon, egg, and cheese or a more adventurous combination, you’re sure to find something to your liking. With its relaxed atmosphere and delicious offerings, The Grind House is the perfect place to start your day in Ellsworth.
Lunchtime Adventures: Satisfying Your Midday Cravings
When lunchtime rolls around, Ellsworth continues to impress with its diverse culinary offerings. From casual sandwich shops to lively pubs, there’s a lunchtime spot to suit every taste and budget.
Riverside Cafe: A Sandwich Lover’s Paradise
For a truly exceptional sandwich experience, look no further than Riverside Cafe. This charming cafe is a haven for sandwich lovers, offering a wide variety of creative and delicious creations. Imagine sinking your teeth into a perfectly crafted sandwich, made with fresh, high-quality ingredients and bursting with flavor.
Riverside Cafe prides itself on using locally sourced ingredients whenever possible, ensuring that every sandwich is made with the freshest and most flavorful components. From classic turkey and cranberry to adventurous roast beef and horseradish, there’s a sandwich to suit every taste. They also offer a selection of homemade soups and salads, perfect for a lighter lunchtime option.
The casual atmosphere of Riverside Cafe makes it the perfect spot for a relaxed lunch with friends or a quick bite on the go. With its friendly service and delicious offerings, Riverside Cafe is a must-visit for any sandwich lover in Ellsworth. You’ll find some of the best food Ellsworth Maine offers right here.
Finn’s Irish Pub: Hearty Fare and Good Times
For a more substantial and lively lunchtime experience, head to Finn’s Irish Pub. This popular pub offers a hearty menu of classic pub fare, along with a wide selection of beers and spirits. Imagine stepping into a bustling pub, filled with the sounds of laughter and friendly conversation.
Finn’s Irish Pub is known for its generous portions and satisfying dishes. Their burgers are a local favorite, made with fresh, locally sourced beef and served on toasted buns with all the fixings. The french fries are crispy and perfectly seasoned, making them the perfect accompaniment to any meal. Seafood rolls are another popular option, filled with fresh, succulent lobster meat and served on a toasted roll.
Finn’s Irish Pub also offers a variety of lunch specials and discounts, making it an affordable option for lunch. With its lively atmosphere, friendly service, and delicious food, Finn’s Irish Pub is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy a satisfying lunchtime meal in Ellsworth.
Dinner Destinations: A Culinary Journey Through Ellsworth
As the sun sets and hunger sets in, Ellsworth’s dinner scene comes alive. From elegant fine dining to casual comfort food, there’s a dinner spot to suit every occasion and craving.
Provender Kitchen + Bar: Upscale Dining with a Local Focus
For a truly exceptional dining experience, look no further than Provender Kitchen + Bar. This upscale restaurant offers a sophisticated atmosphere, innovative menu, and a commitment to using locally sourced ingredients. Imagine stepping into a beautifully designed dining room, surrounded by elegant décor and the gentle murmur of conversation.
Provender Kitchen + Bar’s menu is a testament to culinary creativity, featuring a variety of dishes that showcase the best of Maine’s seasonal ingredients. From perfectly cooked steaks and fresh seafood to innovative pasta dishes and vegetarian options, there’s something to please every palate. The wine list is extensive and carefully curated, offering a wide selection of wines from around the world.
Provender Kitchen + Bar also offers a variety of special features, such as a seasonal menu and a chef’s tasting menu. With its elegant atmosphere, exceptional food, and impeccable service, Provender Kitchen + Bar is the perfect place for a special occasion or a romantic dinner in Ellsworth.
Mama DiMatteo’s: Authentic Italian Flavors
For a more relaxed and comforting dinner experience, head to Mama DiMatteo’s. This family-owned restaurant offers a menu of classic Italian dishes, made with fresh ingredients and served in a warm, inviting atmosphere. Imagine stepping into a cozy restaurant, filled with the aroma of garlic, herbs, and simmering tomato sauce.
Mama DiMatteo’s is known for its generous portions and satisfying dishes. The pasta dishes are a local favorite, made with homemade pasta and topped with a variety of delicious sauces. The pizzas are crispy and flavorful, made with fresh ingredients and cooked in a traditional wood-fired oven. Mama DiMatteo’s also offers a variety of meat and seafood dishes, all cooked to perfection.
With its family-friendly atmosphere, affordable prices, and delicious food, Mama DiMatteo’s is the perfect place for a casual dinner with family or friends in Ellsworth.
The Lobster Shack: Fresh Seafood, Maine Style
No trip to Maine is complete without indulging in some fresh, local seafood, and The Lobster Shack is the perfect place to do just that in Ellsworth. This casual restaurant specializes in serving the freshest catches of the day, prepared in a variety of delicious ways. Imagine sitting at a table overlooking the water, enjoying the salty breeze and the sound of seagulls overhead.
The Lobster Shack’s menu features a variety of seafood dishes, from classic lobster rolls and fried clams to grilled scallops and baked haddock. The lobster rolls are a must-try, filled with fresh, succulent lobster meat and served on a toasted roll with a touch of mayonnaise. The fried clams are crispy and flavorful, served with tartar sauce and a side of fries.
The Lobster Shack offers a casual and relaxed atmosphere, making it the perfect place to enjoy a seafood feast with family or friends in Ellsworth. This is truly one of the best places for the best food Ellsworth Maine has to offer.
Sweet Endings: Desserts to Delight Your Taste Buds
After a satisfying meal, there’s always room for dessert, and Ellsworth offers a variety of sweet treats to tempt your taste buds.
Morton’s Moo: Ice Cream Heaven
For a classic ice cream experience, head to Morton’s Moo. This popular ice cream shop offers a wide variety of ice cream flavors, from classic vanilla and chocolate to more adventurous creations. Imagine stepping into a colorful ice cream shop, filled with the sweet aroma of waffle cones and frozen treats.
Morton’s Moo makes its ice cream fresh daily, using high-quality ingredients. They also offer a variety of toppings and mix-ins, allowing you to create your own personalized sundae.
Acadia Cakes: Baked Goods for Every Occasion
If you’re craving a cake, pie, or other baked good, Acadia Cakes is the place to go. This charming bakery offers a wide variety of freshly baked treats, from classic cakes and pies to cookies and brownies. Acadia Cakes uses only the finest ingredients. Perfect for a special event or a simple desire for a sweet treat.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
Ellsworth also boasts a few hidden gems that are worth seeking out.
The Bud Connection : Unique Eats
Tucked slightly away from the main drag, The Bud Connection is a surprisingly great place for Asian cuisine. This unassuming place packs a serious punch of flavor and fresh ingredients. This is a place locals love.
Beyond the Plate: Things to Consider
When planning your culinary adventure in Ellsworth, it’s important to consider a few factors. Price ranges vary from affordable to upscale, so be sure to check menus and reviews before making a reservation. Many restaurants offer vegetarian and gluten-free options, so be sure to inquire about dietary restrictions. Family-friendliness is another important consideration, especially if you’re traveling with children. Finally, be sure to check the hours of operation for each restaurant, as some may have limited hours or be closed on certain days. By being prepared, you can ensure that your dining experience in Ellsworth is enjoyable and stress-free. Remember to support local businesses whenever possible, as they are the heart and soul of the community.
Conclusion: A Culinary Journey Awaits
Ellsworth, Maine, is more than just a gateway to Acadia National Park; it’s a culinary destination in its own right. With its diverse range of restaurants, cafes, and bakeries, Ellsworth offers something for every palate and budget. From hearty breakfasts to decadent desserts, you’re sure to find a meal to satisfy your cravings. So, the next time you’re in Ellsworth, take some time to explore the local food scene and discover the hidden culinary gems that this charming town has to offer. The best food Ellsworth Maine offers is waiting for you to discover it!
