The sparsely populated, North Eastern state of Maine boasts a selection of small yet beautifully scenic cities, of which Bangor is one. As the largest market town in the region, Bangor has grown into a cultural hub and is a fantastic foodie hotspot. Its restaurant scene is now buzzing, with nearly every global cuisine represented. For the best places to dine whilst in town, check out our guide featuring 10 of the best.
When is a restaurant not a restaurant? When it is on wheels. Cielos Mexican Grill Truck is a first for Bangor; a premier Mexican restaurant condensed into the back of a truck. The truck itself – which relocates daily to different sites within Bangor and is affectionately known as Mathilda – prepares Mexican food so authentically fresh that it has voracious Tex-Mex devotees queuing for miles. Diners choose their ‘shell’ – either a burrito, taco or salad bowl – and fill it accordingly with combinations of meat, beans and rice. A relatively new addition to the Bangor dining scene, Cielos has tapped into the desire to enjoy great food at the drop of a hat and is swiftly growing in popularity.
Moves Frequently Cielos Truck, Kmart, 688 Hogan Rd, Bangor, ME, USA, +1 207 249 4042
This tiny bakery is operated by two Franciscan monks and regarded as a favourite local Bangor institution. Due to the traditional lifestyle of its owners, the Friar’s Bakehouse is both sparse and simply decorated, contributing to the unusual charm of the space and allowing the food to take centre stage. Every morning, the two friars prepare freshly baked goods in time for breakfast, before making and serving sandwiches and soup for lunch. Local favourites include the whoopee pies and soft blueberry muffins, both of which are perfect for a quick, indulgent sugar fix. This truly fantastic and eccentric bakery offers both quirkiness and quality in equal measure, ensuring it is not one to be missed.
Friar’s Bakehouse, 21 Central St, Bangor, ME, USA, +1 207 947 3770
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