Acadia National Park
Acadia National Park is located on Mount Desert Island in Maine. It is known for its natural beauty. The park has rugged coastlines, serene forests, and stunning mountain views.
After a day of hiking, kayaking, or exploring, you’ll likely feel hungry. Luckily, the area around Acadia has many dining options.
These places not only serve delicious food but also offer beautiful views. Whether you want fresh seafood, comfort food, or something fancy, there’s a spot for you.
Here’s a guide to some of the best places to eat near Acadia National Park. It includes personal insights, what we like, and tips to make your meal even better.
Mount Desert Island Restaurants
Jordan Pond House
Jordan Pond House: A Classic Dining Experience in Acadia
Jordan Pond House is more than a restaurant. It is a special place with a long history. This charming eatery has been welcoming visitors since the late 1800s.
It sits right next to Jordan Pond and offers stunning views of the Bubble Mountains. The beautiful scenery makes dining here an unforgettable experience.
The view is amazing, but the food is just as good. The famous popovers are a must-try. They are light, airy, and served warm.
They come with homemade strawberry jam and butter. This makes them the perfect comfort food. Enjoy them with a hot cup of tea for a relaxing afternoon treat.
Why We Love Jordan Pond House
Dining here feels magical. The green lawn, the sparkling pond, and the mountains in the background create a peaceful setting. It is the perfect place to slow down and enjoy the moment.
We love the calm and cozy atmosphere. It blends beautifully with Acadia’s natural surroundings. The menu has many classic Maine dishes, like lobster stew and fresh salads.
But no matter what you order, the popovers are the highlight. They are light, golden, and simply delicious.
Tips for Visiting
- Make a reservation early, especially in summer and fall. The restaurant is very popular, and tables fill up fast.
- Arrive early if you want to sit on the lawn. Outdoor dining makes the experience even better.
- Take your time to enjoy the food and the view. This is more than a meal—it’s a memory.
Whether you come for a snack or a full meal, Jordan Pond House is a place you will never forget.
The Looking Glass Restaurant
The Looking Glass Restaurant: A Romantic Meal with a View
If you want a special dining experience, The Looking Glass Restaurant is a great choice. It sits at the Atlantic Oceanside Hotel and offers beautiful views of Frenchman Bay.
The restaurant has floor-to-ceiling windows, so every table has an amazing view. Whether you come for breakfast or dinner, the scenery is always stunning.
The menu features fresh, local ingredients. They serve delicious seafood, juicy steaks, and vegetarian dishes. Everything is made with care. If you love Maine flavors, you will enjoy the food here.
Why We Love The Looking Glass Restaurant
Dining here feels peaceful and romantic. The atmosphere is cozy yet elegant, making it perfect for a special occasion or a quiet evening. You can dress up, sip a glass of wine, and watch the sunset over the bay.
One evening, we saw the sky turn pink, orange, and purple. The colors reflected on the water, creating a magical scene. It was a moment to remember.
We also love the friendly service and the attention to detail in every dish. Their lobster meals are full of rich, buttery flavors.
And don’t forget about dessert! The blueberry cobbler is warm, sweet, and packed with Maine’s famous wild blueberries.
Tips for Dining Here
- Make a reservation in peak season. The restaurant is popular, and tables fill up fast.
- Try the lobster dishes. They are fresh and full of flavor.
- Save room for dessert. Their blueberry cobbler is a must-try!
If you are visiting Bar Harbor, this is a wonderful place to enjoy a meal with a view.
Thurston’s Lobster Pound
Thurston’s Lobster Pound: A Classic Maine Lobster Spot
If you love fresh lobster in a casual setting, Thurston’s Lobster Pound is the perfect place. It is located in Bernard, just a short drive from Acadia.
This family-owned restaurant has been serving lobster for decades. The focus here is simple—fresh seafood and stunning coastal views.
The setting is rustic and welcoming. The restaurant is a wooden building with a large deck overlooking the water.
Picnic tables offer the perfect spot to enjoy the salty sea breeze. The best part? The lobster is incredibly fresh and cooked just right.
Why We Love Thurston’s Lobster Pound
Thurston’s is more than just a place to eat. It offers a true Maine lobster experience. The restaurant sits right by the water, so you can watch fishing boats bring in their daily catch.
The sound of gentle waves and the smell of fresh seafood make the experience even better.
One of my favorite afternoons was spent here. I sat on the deck with a steaming hot lobster in front of me. I cracked it open, dipped it in warm butter, and simply enjoyed the moment.
No rush, no noise—just great food and a peaceful view.
We love the relaxed atmosphere and the authentic Maine feel. The menu is simple but full of flavor. The lobster rolls are packed with sweet, tender meat.
The chowder is rich and comforting. The freshness of the seafood makes every bite special.
Tips for Visiting
- Try the whole lobster or a lobster roll. Both are fresh and delicious.
- Arrive early to avoid long lines, especially in summer.
- Bring cash. They don’t accept credit cards.
- Check their hours before visiting. They are seasonal and may close early.
If you want to enjoy delicious lobster with a beautiful view, Thurston’s Lobster Pound is a must-visit.
Havana
Havana: A Delicious Mix of Latin and Maine Flavors
If you want a unique dining experience, Havana in Bar Harbor is a great choice. This charming restaurant combines fresh Maine seafood with bold Latin flavors.
The result is a creative menu that surprises and delights.
The food here is full of exciting flavors. Their lobster tacos are a must-try. The seared scallops with tropical salsa are fresh and flavorful.
The slow-roasted pork is tender and packed with smoky goodness. Every dish is carefully made and beautifully served.
The atmosphere is warm and stylish. Inside, the dim lighting and cozy decor create a relaxing space. In summer, the outdoor patio is perfect for enjoying a meal under the stars.
Why We Love Havana
Havana is more than just a restaurant—it’s an experience. The mix of Latin and Maine flavors is unexpected but works beautifully. We love how each dish feels fresh and exciting.
One of my favorite meals here was lobster tacos with a mojito. The flavors were fresh, bright, and perfectly balanced. The staff made the night even better.
They were friendly and knowledgeable, taking time to explain the dishes and offer great suggestions.
The cocktails here are also fantastic. Their classic mojito is a favorite, but they also have creative house drinks. Whether you like rum-based cocktails or something with spice, there’s something for you.
Tips for Dining Here
- Make a reservation in peak season. The restaurant is very popular.
- Try their signature cocktails—they go perfectly with the food.
- Ask the staff for recommendations. They know the menu well and are happy to help.
If you’re in Bar Harbor and want a meal that’s delicious, creative, and memorable, Havana is the place to go!
Galyn’s
Galyn’s: Cozy Dining with a Harbor View
If you’re looking for great food in a warm setting, Galyn’s in Bar Harbor is the place to go. This charming restaurant is housed in a beautiful historic building. It feels cozy and elegant.
The menu features fresh seafood, juicy steaks, and flavorful vegetarian dishes. Plus, the harbor view makes it the perfect spot to relax, especially at sunset.
When you walk in, you’ll feel at home. The soft lighting, wooden beams, and tasteful decor make it inviting. Whether you’re celebrating something special or just enjoying a casual dinner, Galyn’s makes every meal feel important.
Why We Love Galyn’s
Dining here always feels comfortable and memorable. The mix of delicious food, friendly service, and a beautiful view makes us return time and again.
We love its cozy yet refined atmosphere. It’s perfect for both romantic dinners and family meals.
I’ve celebrated many special moments here, and every visit is unforgettable. The seafood chowder is a must-try—it’s rich, creamy, and full of ocean flavor.
The baked stuffed lobster is another favorite—tender and buttery, with a flavorful stuffing. Each bite reminds me why Maine is known for its seafood.
One of my favorite memories was sitting by the window at sunset. The sky turned pink and gold, reflecting beautifully on the water. With a warm bowl of chowder and great company, it was truly the perfect evening.
Tips for Dining Here
- Make a reservation during peak season—this place fills up quickly.
- Try the seafood chowder or baked stuffed lobster—they’re the best.
- Ask for a window table for the best harbor view, especially at sunset.
If you’re visiting Bar Harbor and want a delicious, relaxing, and memorable dining experience, Galyn’s is a must!
Side Street Café
Side Street Café: Comfort Food with a Local Twist
If you’re looking for a cozy, family-friendly spot in Bar Harbor, Side Street Café is the place. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, perfect after a day of exploring Acadia.
The menu features comfort food with a local twist, and the portions are generous, making it a great choice for a hearty meal.
The dishes are unique takes on classics. The lobster mac and cheese is creamy, rich, and filled with tender lobster.
The blueberry BBQ ribs have a surprising sweet twist, thanks to the blueberries, which mix perfectly with the smoky flavor.
Why We Love Side Street Café
What makes Side Street Café so special is its relaxed vibe. It’s a place where you can kick back, enjoy your meal, and unwind.
After a busy day of hiking or sightseeing, it feels comforting to walk into a cozy spot like this. The food is always filling and served with a smile.
One of my most memorable meals here was the lobster mac and cheese. The cheese sauce was perfectly creamy, and the lobster was so fresh.
I almost couldn’t finish the dish because it was so filling! But I couldn’t leave without trying dessert. Their whoopie pie is a classic Maine treat—moist, rich, and delicious.
Tips for Dining Here
- Try the lobster mac and cheese or BBQ ribs—both are standout dishes.
- Arrive early to beat the crowds, especially in peak season.
- Save room for dessert—their whoopie pie is a must-try!
After a day of adventure, Side Street Café is the perfect place to enjoy a delicious and hearty meal. It’s definitely worth a stop in Bar Harbor!
Asticou Inn Dining Room
The Asticou Inn Dining Room: Elegant Dining with a View
If you’re looking for a sophisticated dining experience in Northeast Harbor, the Asticou Inn Dining Room is a great choice.
This elegant restaurant offers beautiful views of the harbor and serves food made with fresh, local ingredients. The atmosphere is refined but still welcoming, making it perfect for a special night out.
The menu features standout dishes like lobster Newburg, which is rich and flavorful, and seared scallops, perfectly cooked with a delicate texture. Every meal here is delicious, and the service is always excellent.
Why We Love The Asticou Inn Dining Room
What we love most about the Asticou Inn is the combination of great food and stunning views. Dining here feels special, and every meal is memorable.
I especially love the lobster Newburg—it’s creamy, rich, and full of fresh lobster flavor. The seared scallops are also incredible—tender and perfectly seared.
The service here is always friendly and makes the dining experience even better.
Tips for Dining Here
- Make a reservation, especially in peak season.
- Dress slightly up to match the elegant atmosphere.
- Save room for dessert—the blueberry pie is a Maine classic!
If you’re in Northeast Harbor and want delicious food with beautiful views, the Asticou Inn Dining Room is the place to go.
beal’s lobster pier
Mount Desert Island, located in Southeast Harbor. It’s a quintessential Maine lobster shack and a favorite among locals and visitors alike for its fresh seafood and scenic waterfront views.
Highlights of Beal’s Lobster Pier:
- Fresh Lobster: Beal’s is known for its super-fresh lobster served in traditional Maine lobster rolls or as a full lobster dinner. You can often see lobsters being steamed right by the pier, ensuring that everything is as fresh as possible.
- Scenic Views: The restaurant offers great views of the harbor, and you can enjoy your meal while watching the boats come and go. It’s an especially charming spot on a sunny day, with outdoor seating to enjoy the surrounding natural beauty.
- Casual Vibe: The atmosphere is relaxed, and the menu is straightforward, focusing on simple but excellent seafood, like lobster rolls, clams, mussels, and fish.
- Family-Owned: Beal’s has been family-owned for generations, and it maintains a laid-back, no-frills vibe that many visitors appreciate when looking for an authentic Maine lobster experience.
- Other Offerings: In addition to lobster, Beal’s also serves other seafood options like scallops, clams, and shrimp, as well as sides like corn on the cob, cole slaw, and French fries.
Overall Experience:
Beal’s Lobster Pier is perfect for anyone looking for a no-hassle, delicious lobster meal with great views. The charm lies in its simplicity—just fresh seafood in a picturesque setting.
Whether you’re a lobster aficionado or a first-timer, it’s a must-visit spot if you’re in the area!
Conclusion
Dining near Acadia National Park is about more than food. It’s about the experience. Whether you’re enjoying popovers at Jordan Pond House, lobster rolls at Thurston’s, or a sunset dinner at The Looking Glass, each meal is special.
Take your time. Enjoy the flavors and the views. You’re not just eating—you’re making memories.
FAQs
Q1: What are the best restaurants with views near Acadia?
- The Asticou Inn Dining Room offers beautiful harbor views with elegant dining.
- Jordan Pond House serves classic Maine dishes with a stunning view of Jordan Pond and the surrounding mountains.
Q2: Are there casual dining options with a view?
- Yes, Thurston’s Lobster Pound in Bernard offers a relaxed vibe with views of the water.
- Side Street Café in Bar Harbor provides a cozy atmosphere with views of the harbor.
Q3: Can I find seafood with a view near Acadia?
- Yes, The Asticou Inn Dining Room and Thurston’s Lobster Pound both serve fresh Maine seafood with scenic views.
Q4: What is the best spot for sunset views while dining?
- Galyn’s in Bar Harbor offers great sunset views over the harbor, making it a perfect spot for dinner.
Q5: Are reservations needed for dining with a view?
- Yes, it’s recommended to make a reservation, especially during peak seasons, for most restaurants with a view.