Here is a list of my favorites—no matter what time of year.
Map Of Kennebunk Restaurants
The map below shows the locations of every restaurant mentioned in this post:
The Tavern at the Kennebunk Inn
Featuring old-world charm with an updated flair, The Tavern’s menus have found the perfect balance of comfort food and culinary creativity. Served in their recently-renovated historic dining room overlooking Kennebunk’s bustling Main Street, unique entrees like Citrus Crab Ravioli or the Salmon Pinwheel are elevated to a nearly sublime experience, as are the more familiar (but no less spectacular) items like the Pan-Roasted Chicken Breast or Half-Pound Burger.
In addition to an impressive wine, craft beer, and signature cocktail list, the Tavern also offers a dessert menu of mouthwatering concoctions even the staunchest dieter will be unable to resist—there is even a Mini-Dessert Sampler, for those of you that can’t decide (like me).
Location: 45 Main St, Kennebunk, ME 04043
Website: The Tavern at the Kennebunk Inn
Old Vines Wine Bar
This delightful find is one of my personal favorites. After moving here from a bedroom town in Massachusetts where you had to travel to somewhere else to get a good meal, the relatively new-to-us concept of “small plates” deterred us at first (my husband and I both have hearty appetites). But after getting used to the “order as you go” concept, we were smitten with Old Vines’ entire experience. The aesthetic (warm and rustic), the menus (almost everything is locally sourced or house-made), the service (knowledgeable and friendly) are all top-notch.
The extensive wine list is nothing if not impressive—and while I’m a big red wine fan, I always go back to my favorite house cocktail, El Fuego (although you really can’t go wrong with any of their craft cocktails). We tend to frequent Old Vines in the off-season in order to get a seat at the bar on the main floor (the friendly bartenders put on a real show with their skillful mixology techniques), although during our first visit, we sat outdoors in front (where we watched George and Barbara Bush arrive for dinner with family—this was one of their favorite spots, as well).
Location: 173 Port Rd, Kennebunk, ME 04043
Website: Old Vines Wine Bar
Garden Street Bowl
While not exactly the place for a quiet, romantic dinner, Garden Street Bowl and Crotux Kitchen is another place we frequent for our weekly date night. This former grocery store now houses one of the most popular spots in town for residents and visitors alike. Why? Chances are you’ll receive a different answer from each happy customer.
Families and large groups love it for the entertainment factor (especially on those rainy summer days)—and GSB isn’t just about bowling. They also have a game room (giant Jenga, arcade games, air hockey) and sports on tv in the bar area, which is where we love to sit (although there is a dining area, as well).
Foodies (like us) adore the crave-worthy menu (the Forest Flatbread and House Salad is our go-to…and the bartender always remembers my tree nut allergy), and the craft cocktails are truly inspired.
Location: 1 Garden St, Kennebunk, ME 04043
Website: Garden Street Bowl
The White Barn Inn Restaurant
In a class all by itself and less than a mile to the waterfront, The White Barn Inn Restaurant is a true five-star (AAA Five Diamond and Forbes Five Star, actually) dining and lodging experience—but don’t wait for a special occasion before booking a table, because trust me when I say: You’re missing out.
Whether you reserve a table in the restaurant proper or the less formal Little Barn (No activewear/shorts and a smart-casual dress code required for the former), either farm-to-table menu is sure to delight and enrapture your taste buds. No matter which you choose, the servers are friendly and helpful, the ambiance is elegantly rustic, and the food is exquisite.
Location: 37 Beach Ave, Kennebunk, ME 04043
Website: The White Barn Inn Restaurant
50 Local
With a cunningly creative menu that changes daily, 50 Local derives its name from its method: Using only ingredients locally sourced, their rotating menu reflects the seasonal culinary abundance found in the surrounding area. Their cozy, warm dining room invites you to settle in and relax: Sit back, gaze out through the wall of windows at downtown Kennebunk’s beautiful Main Street, and sip one of 50 Local’s signature craft cocktails (I love their Angry Cactus) as you eagerly await your nosh (I can’t recommend their Stroganoff enough).
Location: 50 Main St, Kennebunk, ME 04043
Website: 50 Local
Pedro’s
If you’re craving true, south of the border flavor, look for the palm tree and the surfboard fence in Lower Village. With a menu chock full of authentic flair, you literally can’t go wrong, no matter what you choose (although if you’re REALLY hungry, I recommend the Barbacoa plate…with a Skinny Margarita En Fuego). Pedro’s festive indoor dining area is as colorful and fun as their food—and their outdoor seating is just as enticing, especially with its blazing fire pit in the shoulder seasons.
Location: 181 Port Rd, Kennebunk, ME 04043
Website: Pedro’s
The Village Tavern
Removed from the more traveled routes of the other restaurants listed here, The Village Tavern is a local favorite—and for good reason. When you want a fantastic meal during high season but don’t want to deal with long waits, this spot delivers every time…although, this isn’t to say it isn’t a popular spot: Be sure to make a reservation. It is nearly impossible to get a seat at the bar—and when you do, know there’ll be folks taking your spot as soon as you leave.
The Tavern has an upscale vibe without being stuffy or pretentious, and the menu is just the right combination of familiar favorites tweaked with creative flourishes.
Location: 110 Alfred Rd, Kennebunk, ME 04043
Website: The Village Tavern
Federal Jack’s
Located on the river just over the bridge from Kennebunkport, there isn’t a bad seat in the house at this popular establishment—almost every table has a water view. Also home to the Kennebunkport Brewing Company—birthplace of Shipyard Ale—Federal Jack’s (Fed’s, to locals) features an extensive pub-style menu with a seaside flair (Fed’s Seafood Paella or the Tamari-Glazed Brussel Sprout Salad are my top picks).
With both indoor and in-season outdoor seating overlooking the hustle and bustle of the active riverfront, Federal Jack’s is busy year-round and, during peak season, has valet parking only. With their frequent flier “Mug Club,” gift shop, Sunday Bloody Mary bar, family-friendly menu, and oversized U-shaped bar, Fed’s is a big draw for locals and tourists alike.
Location: 8 Western Ave, Kennebunk, ME 04043
Website: Federal Jack’s
The Pilot House
Speaking of locals…the slogans for this establishment are “Where the locals go” or “Respect the locals,” depending who you ask, although they welcome everyone. Look for the pilot whale tale sculpture in Lower Village, and you’ve found The Pilot House—a small, unassuming red structure right on the river.
Enjoy delicious comfort food menu items in a casual, friendly atmosphere—often with live music to accompany your dining experience. Trust me when I say that dinner and a drink on the outdoor patio on a summer evening, listening to live music as the sun sets, is a transportive experience.
Location: State Rte 9, Kennebunk, ME 04043
Website: The Pilot House
While the above establishments are some of my favorites, there are others worthy of mention that cater to specific cravings I couldn’t help mention: Bennett’s Sandwich shop (words can’t describe their Italian sub—especially when enjoyed in a sand chair on Mother’s Beach), Squaretoes (our favorite for breakfast), Mekhong Thai (for when Trader Joe’s Pad Thai just won’t do), and The Blue, for a pour-over coffee and daily handcrafted sandwiches to die for.
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