![The 10 Best Places to Eat in Kittery, Maine [2025 Updated]](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5530fb4de4b0856e7e3ef250/1677595704759-B19XKTJAWHZQ82DZN7JP/katherine-chase-SzBZVEryGY4-unsplash.jpg)
Last Updated: August 15, 2025
We have travelled widely and ate avidly as we make the ultimate list of restaurants in Kittery, Maine. While we’d like to see new kitchen opening their doors we would also like to see years of hard work paving in.
While some of the selections have debuted newly this summer, others have been around for decades. The only thing they have in common: Best Places to Eat in Maine.
Are you going to a restaurant to have dinner at your special event? Make sure to pick the best joint to break bread in that can curb your appetite in Kittery, Maine.
While travelling through Kittery, Maine, make sure to stop by some of the best places to eat in Kittery. Known as the food paradise, Southern Maine Cost is not just a hub of lip-smacking seafood, it has some of the best vegetarian, barbecue, vegan, and much more. From Maine lobster to hip cafes, many options ought to serve you deliciousness.
Many trendy and new spots are situated in the neighbourhood of Kittery Foreside, bypassing the Piscataqua River and a short walkable distance from Portsmouth, NH. Here are 15 places not to miss when Kittery calls.
Types of Cuisine You’ll Find in Kittery, Maine
Kittery may be small, but its dining scene is as diverse as a big city’s. Here’s a taste of what’s on the menu:
Fresh Seafood & Lobster Rolls – From buttery lobster rolls to creamy clam chowder, seafood is the star of coastal Maine.
Wood-Fired Pizza & Fresh-Baked Bread – Artisan pies and breads made with locally milled flour.
Texas-Style BBQ – Smoky brisket, tender pulled pork, and all the southern-style fixings.
Mexican & Puerto Rican Flavors – Tacos, fajitas, and island-inspired dishes with bold seasoning.
Italian Classics – Seasonal pastas, rich sauces, and Mediterranean-inspired plates.
Vegetarian & Vegan Options – Plant-based comfort foods and globally inspired veggie dishes.
Global Street Eats – From Vietnamese spring rolls to Cali-Mex burritos, Kittery embraces flavors from around the world.
Whether you’re a seafood purist or a foodie looking for something new, Kittery’s restaurants serve up flavors to satisfy every craving.
Top 10 Best Places to Eat in Kittery, Maine
1. Robert’s Maine Grill
Located in the heart of Kittery Point, Maine, this grill specializes in classic Maine cuisine paired with a modern, warm ambiance that’s perfect for both date nights and family gatherings.
Robert’s Maine Grill delivers the best seafood in Kittery, Maine, serving regional favorites like creamy New England clam chowder, golden fried seafood platters, and lobster rolls overflowing with sweet, buttery Maine lobster. Large picture windows overlook the tidal river, adding a touch of scenic charm to every meal.
Must-Try Dish: Lobster Roll with hand-cut fries and a side of coleslaw.
Location: 326 US-1, Kittery, ME 03904
2. When Pigs Fly Pizzeria
When Pigs Fly Pizzeria is Kittery’s premier spot for authentic wood-fired Neapolitan pizzas, crafted with fresh, high-quality ingredients and house-made mozzarella. This casual, family-friendly restaurant boasts a spacious dining room with 160 seats and a massive oven, perfect for enjoying hearty pizzas topped with juicy meatballs and Italian spicy sausages.
Beyond pizzas, their artisan sandwiches like the Turkey B-L-T on cranberry bread and Meatball Sub with hot cherry peppers are local favorites. When Pigs Fly also bakes the hearty bread you’ll find in Boston supermarkets, showcasing their passion for quality.
Must-Try Dish: Wood-fired Margherita Pizza with fresh basil and mozzarella.
Fun Fact: When Pigs Fly manufactures the hearty bread that you can find in supermarkets in Boston.
Location: 460 U.S. Route 1, Kittery, ME 03904
Did You Know? Kittery is Maine’s oldest incorporated town, founded in 1647. Back then, shipbuilding was the main industry—today, it’s just as famous for its fresh seafood and artisanal bread.
3. Loco Coco’s Tacos
Tired of mainstream taco joints? Loco Coco’s Tacos offers a vibrant Cali-Mex experience in a lively, family-friendly cantina just off Route 1. Known for generous portion sizes and authentic flavors, this spot serves big burritos, fresh hand-cut chips, and strong margaritas that make it one of the best places to eat in Kittery for Mexican cuisine.
The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, perfect for a fun night out with friends or family. Don’t miss their signature firey habanero and smoky chilaca sauces that pack a flavorful punch.
Must-Try Dish: Signature Big Burrito with your choice of protein.
Above are some happy customers review that shower praises about the portion sizes, friendly staff, and authentic flavours of this outlet. Grub on hand-cut chips and wide arrays of lip-smacking sauces, from fiery and fruity habanero to smoky chilaca are people, pleasers.
Location: 36 Walker St, Kittery, ME 03904
4. Anneke Jans
Anneke Jans is a cozy, upscale bistro located in Kittery’s bustling square, bringing a slice of Manhattan to Maine’s coast. Its romantic and intimate atmosphere makes it perfect for date nights or special occasions.
The adventurous menu features standout dishes like Crispy Duck L'Orange, Statler Chicken, and a hearty Cassoulet with white bean puree. This spot is renowned for blending local ingredients with international flair, offering one of the best fine dining experiences in Kittery.
Must-Try Dish: Crispy Duck L'Orange paired with a glass of fine wine.
Location: 60 Wallingford Square, Kittery, ME 03904
Did You Know? Wallingford Square, home to several top restaurants, was once a bustling center for naval officers and sailors stationed nearby at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard.
5. TACOCAT
Technically a food truck, TACOCAT punches well above its weight, serving gourmet tacos with an urban, casual vibe that makes it a must-visit for where to eat in Kittery.
Their upgraded take on traditional tacos uses only the freshest ingredients and bold flavors, making this a hotspot for locals and visitors craving quick, delicious street food. The lively food truck atmosphere adds to the fun and laid-back experience.
Must-Try Dish: Gourmet Fish Tacos with fresh slaw and zesty sauce.
Location: 230 State Rd., Kittery, ME 03904
6. Festina Lente
Located in downtown Kittery, Festina Lente is an upscale Italian restaurant celebrated for its intimate setting and focus on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. The cozy dining room offers a pastoral yet refined atmosphere, perfect for romantic dinners or special celebrations.
Their menu rotates throughout the year, featuring fresh dishes inspired by the Maine coast, including handmade pastas and delicate seafood options. This restaurant is a standout choice for authentic Italian dining in Kittery.
Must-Try Dish: House-made Pappardelle with seasonal mushrooms and herbs.
Location: 1 Government St., Kittery, ME 03904
Did You Know? Many Kittery chefs source ingredients directly from nearby farms and fishermen—so that lobster in your pasta could have been caught the same morning.
7. Ore Nell’s BBQ
Located on Badger’s Island, Ore Nell’s brings authentic Texas-style barbecue to the New England coast, making it the go-to spot for BBQ lovers searching for smoky, tender meats in Kittery.
Run by a Texas chef, this casual and family-friendly eatery boasts melt-in-your-mouth brisket with a perfectly pink smoke ring, crispy and juicy pulled pork, and a robust selection of sides and drinks. The lively atmosphere is ideal for lunch or dinner with friends.
Must-Try Dish: Texas Brisket with house-made BBQ sauce.
Location: 2 Badgers Island West, Kittery, ME, 03904
8. La Casita
La Casita offers authentic Puerto Rican border-style cuisine in a warm, inviting setting. Located in Kittery, this vibrant restaurant is known for scratch-made dishes like Sizzling Shrimp Fajitas in jalapeno-garlic butter paired with custom-crafted margaritas.
The lively atmosphere and friendly service make it one of the best places for Latin-inspired food and drinks in Kittery, perfect for casual dinners and group outings.
Must-Try Dish: Shrimp Fajitas with jalapeno-garlic butter.
Location: 181 ME-236, Kittery, ME 03904
Did You Know? Badger’s Island, where Ore Nell’s sits, was once the site of a 1700s shipyard that launched massive wooden vessels into the Piscataqua River.
9. Rudders Public House
Rudders Public House serves classic American fare in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, making it a favorite for locals and visitors alike. Known for generous portions and a varied menu, it’s a great choice for casual dining or a laid-back evening out.
Try their signature bacon-wrapped meatloaf served with mashed potatoes, gravy, and seasonal vegetables—comfort food at its finest. Free Wi-Fi makes it popular with remote workers looking for a cozy spot to dine and work.
Must-Try Dish: Bacon-Wrapped Meatloaf with mashed potatoes and gravy.
Location: 70 Wallingford Square, Kittery, ME 03904
10. Rose’s Spring Rolls
Operated by Vietnamese chef Rose, Rose’s Spring Rolls food truck delivers authentic Vietnamese flavors in Kittery, Maine. This casual eatery is famed for its fresh ingredients and bold flavors, making it a top choice for where to eat in Kittery for Vietnamese cuisine.
From classic spring rolls to flavorful pho, each dish highlights traditional recipes passed down from Rose’s hometown of Da Nang. A perfect spot for a quick bite or casual lunch.
Must-Try Dish: Fresh Spring Rolls with peanut dipping sauce.
Location: 230 US-1 BYP, Kittery, ME 03904
Did You Know? Kittery’s food scene isn’t just about seafood—its mix of Mexican, Puerto Rican, Vietnamese, and Italian spots makes it one of the most globally diverse dining hubs in coastal Maine.
Where to Eat in Kittery: Summary Table
| Restaurant Name | Cuisine Type | Address |
|---|---|---|
| Robert’s Maine Grill | Seafood / American | 326 US-1, Kittery, ME 03904 |
| When Pigs Fly Pizzeria | Pizza / Italian | 460 US-1, Kittery, ME 03904 |
| Loco Coco’s Tacos | Mexican / Cali-Mex | S36 Walker St, Kittery, ME 03904 |
| Anneke Jans | American / Bistro | 60 Wallingford Square, Kittery, ME 03904 |
| TACOCAT (Food Truck) | Gourmet Tacos | 230 State Rd., Kittery, ME 03904 |
| Festina Lente | Italian | 1 Government St., Kittery, ME 03904 |
| Ore Nell’s BBQ | GBBQ / Texan | 2 Badgers Island West, Kittery, ME 03904 |
| La Casita | Puerto Rican | 181 ME-236, Kittery, ME 03904 |
| TRudders Public House | American / Pub | 70 Wallingford Square, Kittery, ME 03904 |
| Rose’s Spring Rolls | Vietnamese | 230 US-1 BYP, Kittery, ME 03904 |
Practical Tips for Dining in Kittery
To make the most of your culinary adventure in Kittery, here are some practical tips to keep in mind:
Best Time to Visit: For a more relaxed dining experience with fewer crowds, consider visiting Kittery’s restaurants during weekday afternoons or early evenings, especially outside of the busy summer months. Summer (June to August) brings in many tourists eager to savor fresh lobster and seafood, so expect lively atmospheres then.
Reservations vs. Walk-Ins: Popular spots like Robert’s Maine Grill and When Pigs Fly Pizzeria often fill up quickly, especially on weekends and holidays. It’s a good idea to make reservations in advance when possible. However, some casual eateries and food trucks welcome walk-ins and offer quicker seating options.
Parking Advice: Many restaurants in Kittery’s downtown and Foreside areas offer public parking lots or street parking, but spaces can fill fast during peak seasons. Plan ahead by arriving a bit earlier or use nearby parking facilities and enjoy a short walk to your dining destination.
Seasonal Specialties to Try: Kittery’s menu offerings shift with the seasons—savor succulent Maine lobster, clams, and fresh seafood in summer, while warm chowders, hearty stews, and baked dishes are perfect for cozy winter dining. Don’t miss out on local specialties that celebrate the flavors of each season!
With these tips, you’ll be ready to enjoy everything Kittery’s vibrant dining scene has to offer with ease and confidence.
Eating at the Best Restaurants in Kittery Maine
Whether you’re craving seafood by the water or a quick bite on the go, Kittery offers a diverse culinary scene that guarantees an unforgettable meal. From waterfront views to cozy cafes and lively food trucks, you’ll find exactly what you’re looking for here. With locations included, it’s easy to explore and enjoy the best restaurants in Kittery, Maine. Bon appétit!