The Best Local Restaurants In Bangor, Maine

No surprises for guessing the star of the show at Bagel Central, but guests will find much more than the name would suggest at this quirky little bakery. Firstly, there is a pumpkin patch for visitors to choose their own organic squash or perfectly ripe pumpkin to take home. Secondly, Bagel Central offers an array of desserts and sweet treats to whet the appetite. It is true, however, that the most impressive aspect of the whole operation is the bagel selection. There are as many as 28 different varieties, with gluten-free and vegetarian options on offer. Add to this the comprehensive selection of toppings and it would seem that the capacity for fine tuning is almost limitless, bringing back mealtime fun.

Just outside of Bangor, Brewster’s Fine Food and Drink allows diners to sample terrific American food in a stylish yet informal restaurant environment. The menu boasts classic snacks for excellent value, as well as craft beers and elegant cocktails. A particularly popular local choice are the Buffalo chicken wings paired with a spicy sauce, but the Mexican nachos loaded with chili, the Rooster’s meatball sub and the Brewster’s spinach salad with a warm maple dressing have all become firm favorites. Pop in for brunch to enjoy a true taste of American fare and zealous hospitality. Begin with thick French toast before taking on the ultimate breakfast challenge, the 12oz rib eye steak with eggs, hash browns and toast.

American truck stops, complete with hearty dining spaces, embody the history of America and in so doing have become iconic. Family-run Dysarts is no exception, promising a return to tradition and a broad welcome for the weary traveler. Open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, Dysarts offers a true slice of America, whether in the form of homemade corn beef hash that greets you in the early hours of the morning or more literally, with a slice of ice cream pie alongside your coffee. Stop for lunch to enjoy American comfort food classics given a distinct Maine twist, such as a chicken pot pie with flaky pastry crust or a thick cut of meatloaf smothered in beef gravy.

The famous Maine lobster sits pride of place at McLaughlin Seafood, Inc. Whilst predominantly a take-out institution, the range of sizzling fried clams, delicate scallops, homemade chowders and, of course, the baked, grilled or steamed lobster, is well worth the journey. In addition to the vast range of traditional seafood already available, McLaughlin now offers a unique selection of smoked seafood, crisp wines and complimentary cheeses to provide an all-encompassing, high quality culinary experience. Join McLaughlin’s at the Marina for a special dinner and wine pairing, enjoying the tranquility of the hidden location and allowing the sumptuous seafood or succulent steak to speak for itself.

McLaughlin Seafood, Inc 728 Main St, Bangor, ME, USA, +1 800 222 9107

If you are a fan of beer (as many of us are), visiting Nocturnem Draft Haus should be high on your to-do list. As well as offering a promising selection of American and European dishes, the team at Nocturnem insist you leave plenty of room for a drink or three. The owner, Gene Beck, is inspired by his French and German heritage when assembling the carefully crafted drinks menus. His domestic and imported range of draft and bottled beers is constantly evolving, with recent creations and improved flavors challenging old favorites – only the very best beers find a permanent home on the Draft Haus menu.

Nocturnem Draft Haus, 56 Main St, Bangor, ME, USA, +1 207 907 4380