Georges Pond
Franklin, Maine
Places
to Eat on the
Way and Once You're There
updated 4/21/08
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Here's your chance to tout your favorite restaurant or watering hole. Short reviews welcome. Provide a link if you have one. There are a lot of restaurants in the area and I haven’t been to them all – yet – especially in Bar Harbor so please provide input. For those special occasions, based on personal knowledge, I’d recommend The Kitchen Garden, The Deckhouse & Cabaret, The Burning Tree, The Rose Garden, and The Castine Inn. Also, if you need a first class meal on your way up, see Robinhood Free Meetinghouse and Primo’s below.
General info on Maine
red hot dogs 
On the way up you might consider stopping at:
Bob's Clam Hut in Kittery - for all us folks from away, you can't beat Bob's Clam Hut in Kittery. My motto - eat fried clams, eat fried clams often - so you can start right away as soon as you get to Maine. Great rings, shrimp, everything. Right next door to Kittery Trading Post, a ruggedized LL Beans, and worth a visit. Like Cindy's (see below), also featured (scroll down) at WeLoveClams website. Bob's Clam Hut in Kittery and Kittery Trading Post
Flo's Hot Dogs in
Cape Neddick (about 50
miles south of Portland on Rt 1) - it's the secret sauce! Flo's Steamed
Hot
Dogs Review by Phantom Gourmet
Flo’s Hot Dogs
in York,
Maine ranks among the best roadside wieneries, serving delectable dogs
that can
be downed in three bites. Modest mortals order a minimum of three or
four of
the modest doggies, but Phantom throws back a dozen at a time. This
tight-spaced eatery seats only six and serves nothing but steamed hot
dogs on
silky, steamed buns. At Flo’s the star topping is hot sauce, a
spicy-sweet
onion relish that pairs best with mayo or mustard. (I
haven't eaten there
and got the review from the Boston Globe's Phamtom Gourmet. Flo's won
for Best
Relish. Let me know if you eat there and what you think.) Open year round 11-3 every day
except
Wednesday. 1359 Rt 1, Cape Neddick. Click
here for
another review.
Rapid Ray's Hot Dogs 189
Main St next to Pepperell Sq,
Saco. OK, so Lily Moon is closed but right next to it, if not
gastronomically, is Rapid Ray's Hot Dogs. Go for it!
Fat
Boy's Drive-in on
Rt 24S in Brunswick (111 Bath Rd) is definitely worth a slight
detour. Now
open for the 2008 season. Old fashioned,
lights on for service, car hops, great food, great prices. You can get
off going north at Rt 295 at Exit 28 (Brunswick) and get back on at
Exit 31B (Topsham) (or vice versa going south) with little effort. Cash
or Traveler's Checks only, no credit cards. Check
the map. Try the shakes!
Robinhood Free Meetinghouse in Georgetown on Robinhood Rd approx. 6 miles south of Bath off Rt 127 – is a premier gourmet restaurant. Some of our Massachusetts neighbors make a special journey every fall just for dinner. Reservations a must. Open mid-May through Columbus Day. 207-371-2188
Primo’s in Rockland - Five stars!!! Plan waaay ahead (at least 2 weeks on reservations) or be prepared to beg. If you are in a position to request seating, ask for the upstairs. Seafood is right out of the ocean, bread right out of the oven. Everything is fresh, fresh, fresh!!!! 2 South Main St. (207) 596-0770 July 1st to September 1st Open 7 Days
Waterworks Pub in Rockland - great food, pub atmosphere. Now owned by Rocky Bay Brewing Company. Recommended by Debbie & John Stevens and family. 207-596-7950, 7 Lindsey St., Rockland ME 04841
Red's Eats on Rt 1 in Wiscasset just before you go over the bridge: a "whole lobster on a roll" batter-dipped onion rings, try a Sturdley or a Puff Dog. Red's is a landmark and I ate there April 24. Yep, the whole lobster was in that bun = served with either melted butter or mayo. Parking and traffic are a problem in Wiscasset in the summer so I chose to go in the off-season. Open every day it appears. 207-882-6128
Day's Crabmeat & Lobster at Exit 17, Yarmouth - (Was up for sale - status unknown 4/2007) As reviewed in the Boston Globe, a "whole lobster on a roll", Day's is open until 5 Mon-Sat. Go north on Rt 1 after taking Exit 17 from Rt 95. Day's is about a mile up just before the Muddy Rudder Restaurant. 207-846-3436
Cindy's at Exit 17,
Yarmouth - check this
out: WeLoveClams
features
Cindy's same exit as Day's but keep going north a couple of miles -
it's
just before the Bike & Ski store. As reviewed in the Boston Globe:
"... has the perfect look of a Maine roadside stand. Improvised like
the
best jazz, it has lots of funny signs, picnic tables...and a Downeast
lobsterman atop the driveway sign. A vintage house trailer anchors the
scene.
The lobster roll was tasty, a generous portion of small pieces and
shredded
meat." OK, I finally made it to Cindy's this
summer
(2004). You gotta go! Bob Pottles, the co-owner with his wife, is worth
the
trip by himself. Both times I went he gave everyone a sample of the
corn
chowder and, maybe it because we were there both times near closing, we
got
free desserts, too. Excellent homemade banana pudding and kermits!
Tasty
battered onion rings. Open 11-7 except Saturday when they are closed
(really).
We got there both nights about 7 and even with the closed sign up he
wouldn't
turn anyone away. Talked with a lot of the customers and many were very
loyal.
Crab cakes reputed to be excellent - I'll try them next time. So, visit
the
Delorme Map Store at Exit 17 and then mosey on up to Cindy's and talk
to Bob!
207-865-1635
A-1 Diner – in Gardiner; You can't miss the A-1 Diner in Gardiner, Maine - it's the place on Bridge Street looking for all the world like a 1946 Wooster dining car. And the A-1 is probably the only place where you can savor a fabulous chicken pot pie or meatloaf dinner while your dining partner tucks into a steaming bowl of Vietnamese Bouillabaise. Leave room for dessert - the Hazelnut Freddo is divine. They even have a wine list. Take either Exit 49 or 51 off Rt 95 - after eating continue on and cross the bridge and take a left to get to Augusta. 3 Bridge St., Gardiner 207-582-4804
All Steak Hamburger
Restaurant and Golf – on Rt 9
(225 Hospital Street) just before the Augusta town line if you're
coming from Gardiner. Great burgers and terrific fries and more. Get
the burger loaded but
it's
messy if you try to drive. Instead, eat it or a couple and then go out
and
drive a few golf balls or discs - there is both a driving range (open 9
to dusk)
and an 18-hole disc disc
course info
here (Frisbee) course (I think they provide the discs) as well as
miniature
golf. Home made french fries. Giffords ice cream. This will be a
featured stop
on my visits especially during golf season. Open 7 days, 11-8 for the
restaurant, seasonal though. 623-0859
Whipper’s Pizza just
after the second rotary going east
in Augusta. Their signature sandwich is a killer – do NOT plan to drive
and eat
at the same time and that’s for the half sandwich – I’d be afraid to
order the
whole one! Takes a few minutes to have them make it but it is a life
experience!
The Landing at the head of China Lake in China. A little bit of a detour off Rt 3 east of Augusta at the corners of Causeway Street and Rts 202 and 9. Fried seafood takeout and picnic tables overlooking the lake. Visit the Lakeside Country Store while there.
Judy’s Eggroll a
little before you get
into Belfast on Edgehill Rd on your right off Rt 3. Korean sit-down or
take
out. Worth the small detour. 207-338-1400
Wasse’s Hot Dog Stand
at the plaza where
Rt 3 meets Rt 1 in Belfast. Only open weekdays and Saturday, I believe.
And
there is a Reny’s in the same plaza!
Maine
Chowder House just
north of Belfast on Rt 1&3 – I’ve only eaten there once but the
scallop
stew was tremendous, Melanie liked everything (she’s our version of
“Mikey”),
and a great harbor view. The Stevens' gave it an "Awesome"
recommendation in 2002! Not sure if they still do it, but you
used to be
able to get a free dinner on your birthday if you make reservations for
your birthdate
- give them a call and see. Route 1, Belfast, ME
04915
207-338-5225
The Sail Inn is no longer, sad to say, as the new bridge being built has resulted in it's closing. Was recently told it will not reopen. 2/15/2005
Crosby's in Bucksport
just off Rt 1&3
on Rt 46 - crab roll and fries and onion rings plus everything else.
It's
not a trip to camp without one of their crab rolls. Call ahead
and have it waiting. (207)
469-3640
The Kitchen Garden in Steuben - tremendous, elegant, intimate. BUT I STILL DON'T KNOW IF THEY ARE OPEN ANY MORE 3/1/2008 Call for reservations and that day's menu. The Kitchen Garden Restaurant, 335 Village Road (historic Route 1), Steuben 207-546-2708. Chef/owners Jessie King and Alva Lowe feature their local and homegrown foods served in their tiny Cape surrounded by gardens and greenhouses. I need to update the following so check with them before going: bring your own beer and wine; also, the restaurant does not take credit cards--cash/checks only, please! Read this review (scroll down through article)
Franklin Trading Post
in Franklin – The
TP is back, born again from the ashes. Mike Heyden has a nice spread on
the new
TP at www.franklinmaine.net
Great bread and muffins. Great strawberry pancakes. Everything you need
and
more. Tremendous customers! Great waitresses, too - Becky and Karen.
And I love their pizza: for pick up at the
Trading
Post on Friday and Saturday evenings starting at 4:30 PM. Prices vary
with
ingredients. Call 565-3314 to order. Just don't diss those Black Bears
when
Becky is working .
565-3314
Chester Pike's Galley
just past Rt 1N and Rt 186 in Sullivan for the best breakfast and lunch
around. Open for dinner
Friday and Saturday only: including all you can eat fish fry on
Friday night and Saturday night is roast beef night. Sunday
they have a great hash for breakfast - just don't take the last portion
just in case I am coming down late.
Great desserts. Real nice folks. I almost hate to list this as I don't
want to have to wait any longer than necessary to get in on Fridays and
Sundays!
Finelli's Pizza is by far
the best pizza around, maybe in all of New England, maybe in all the
world. The Pesto and Tomato is incredible. Thin crust. Tremendous
selection of brews, too. Usually playing pretty cool music. Desserts
and breads. Eat in or take out. We call ahead from camp and it's
usually coming out of the oven when we arrive. Kind of across from
Rite-aid on Rt 1. 11-8 Mon-Thur; 11-9 Fri & Sat; Now open Sunday noon
to 8 PM starting March 30, 2008.
664-0230
Ruth and Wimpy's in
Hancock– opening
April 10, 2008 for the season! for lobster and
fried seafood and great desserts especially the pies. See Wilbur
the
giant lobster! On Rt 1 just past Rt 182 Open from about
March 1 -
December 1 207-422-3723 Info
on the giant lobster!
Crosby's in Bucksport just off Rt 1&3 on Rt 46 - crab roll and fries and onion rings plus everything else. That crab roll makes the long trip back to Mass a little more bearable - that and knowing I'll be back for another soon. Call ahead and have it waiting. (207) 469-3640
Molasses Pond Grill in Eastbrook - at the head of the pond next to the Molasses Pond House....all kinds of good things to eat, and ice cream, too. Check it out! Open Wednesday through Sunday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Call Steve Zadravecz, 565-2926. (P.S. Georges Pond-ites should know that Macomber Mill Road is very driveable all the way from Georges Pond Road up to Sugar Hill Road here in Eastbrook. Only a couple of minor potholes! So the Grill is geographically pretty close to you. So says Kathleen Molatch who also sent in the suggestion for the Grill - haven't verified this myself for 2008 btw)
The Fishnet in Blue
Hill - my favorite
place for fried clams. Now open for the
2008 season. Everything is great there. Just don't get killed
leaving
the parking lot! 374-5240
Single Serve Kitchen
is on the way to Blue Hill at 572 Ellsworth Road (Route 172) and
provides carry out from soups to full meals. When I stopped in last
year they had the baker from the old Larry's Bakery in Ellsworth
creating those fabulous creme horns and other baked goods - I'll be
checking it out this year (2007) and let you know. Check out the
offerings and make a call 374-2301. Open 8-6 Monday thru Saturday.
Red Barn in Milbridge – where to go for dinner before the movie at the Milbridge Theater. In April (2004), former waitress Elaine Mathiason took over operation to the delight of the staff and customers. Look for more daily specials and (yes, even in Maine) more health-concious foods (my vote would be for lo-carb Pina Coladas or Margaritas!). Always good for fried seafood and a decent salad bar – I’ve never had room for dessert!. 207-546-7721 (not sure if this is for the restaurant or the motel)
Deckhouse Restaurant and Cabaret at Hinckley Great Harbor Marina in Southwest Harbor, 11 Apple Lane - good food and cabaret entertainment on the dock. A great evening out! Reservations suggested and a little pricey but worth it. 207-244-5044 (P.S. website a little outdated)
Crosby's in Bucksport just off Rt 1&3 on Rt 46 - crab roll and fries and onion rings plus everything else. That crab roll makes the long trip back to Mass a little more bearable - that and knowing I'll be back for another soon. Call ahead and have it waiting. (207) 469-3640
Fisherman's Friend in Stonington - good, plenty, and friendly. The place to eat in Stonington. Now down by the docks. Ask a local. 367-2442
The Rose Garden at
the Bluenose Inn
in Bar Harbor – very upscale but very good. You don’t want to wear
jeans to
this place. Reservations a must.
288-3348
Cleonice Mediterranean Bistro
near the Grasshopper Shop on Main Street in Ellsworth. It looks very
intriguing but I have yet to eat there. Any reviews, anyone?
Tidal Falls Lobster Pound (click for menu - I think it's this year's) at Sullivan Falls in Hancock - lobster and a few other items served outdoors while overlooking the reversing falls or bring a picnic. Watch seals, eagles, and kayakers. Recently purchased by conservation group so free access for on-lookers and kayakers. Great place to spend a few hours relaxing. There is a screened-in area. Best time for watching the water seems to be 1-2 hours before low tide. Tide Chart - choose Bar Harbor Call ahead for best tide times and restaurant opening. 422-6818
Riverside Cafe on Main St next to The Grand in Ellsworth – great place for breakfast and lunch. Freshly squeezed juices – get the apple juice!
CZY Gil’s on Rt 3 north of Ellsworth at the White Birches Motel and Golf Course - all you can eat breakfast buffet (but coffee is extra!!!) and Friday fish fry and lunch/dinner specials but hated to see that real golf course go 667-3621
Union River Lobster Pot 8 South St in Ellsworth just across the Main St bridge. Recently got this review from a frequent diner: Union River is an excellent place to eat. Great food, nice view and excellent waitstaff. Prices are not out of sight either. Try the lobster roll or the fish chowder. 667-5077Union River Lobster Pot website
Oak Point Lobster Pound Restaurant on Oak Point Rd in Trenton – no longer in business but cook is now owner of Union River Lobster Pot - see above. 2/15/2005
Jordan’s Restaurant at 80 Cottage St in Bar Harbor - for breakfast and lunch only. Family business, great food. 288-3586
Ellsworth Giant Sub - can't beat it for a grinder/sub/hoagie 667-5585
Pat's Pizza - good pizza, friendly and it's sane compared to Pizza Hut. Plus they have satellite TV in the bar so you can watch those sports we don't get on the local channels out to camp! Check out the new 2007 expansion. On Route 3 about 1/2 mile past McDonald's. 667-6011
Maidee’s International Restaurant & Lounge 156 Main St., Ellsworth, Under new name and management and I have to update 3/1/2008
Burning Tree on Rt 3
between Bar Harbor
& Otter Creek - upscale, great food based on local fare, excellent,
reservations a must 288-9331 another
review
Castine Inn in Castine – Not sure if the restaurant is still open or if they just do special events. Give them a call. Have not eaten there so going by word of mouth and a review I read which sounded great. 326-4570
The Mex at
185 Main St in Ellsworth – usually crowded, the usual Mexican fare,
good nachos
and drinks, fun place. I do miss the Dirty Mexican, a casualty of the
PC
wars. 667-4494
The
Mex website
Bar Harbor and vicinity
- http://www.acadiamagic.com/dining.html
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