My Favorite Places to Eat in Kennebunkport, Maine
A local photographer's personal guide to waterfront lunches, relaxed dinners, classic Maine seafood, and special-occasion dining.
Rosella Sushi KPT, Photography by Heidi Kirn
As a longtime Kennebunkport photographer, I'm often asked where to eat while visiting the area. Kennebunkport has everything from classic fried seafood and casual pizza to romantic patios and truly memorable fine dining. These are some of my personal favorites in Kennebunkport, Cape Porpoise, and nearby Kennebunk, whether you're planning a romantic weekend, celebrating something special, or simply looking for a great lunch by the water.
If you're navigating a gluten-free diet while visiting, I've also put together a separate guide to gluten-free dining in Kennebunkport and Southern Maine, with some of my favorite places and helpful suggestions.
Where to Eat
The Boathouse
The Boathouse is one of my favorite places for lunch or drinks in Dock Square, especially when the weather is warm enough to sit outside. Its waterfront deck overlooks the Kennebunk River and has a lively, relaxed atmosphere. It's a great place to stop between exploring the shops in town and taking a drive along Ocean Avenue.
Chez Rosa
Chez Rosa is a welcoming French bistro with exceptional food and an emphasis on local seafood, farms, and seasonal ingredients. The covered patio is especially lovely during the summer and is also dog-friendly. It feels special enough for a date night but still warm and relaxed rather than overly formal.
Wandby Landing
Wandby Landing combines Italian-inspired cooking with fresh Maine ingredients. The menu changes with the seasons and often includes handmade pasta, wood-fired pizza, seafood, and excellent cocktails. The historic farmhouse setting is beautiful, making it a wonderful choice for a relaxed but memorable dinner.
The Lost Fire
For something completely different, The Lost Fire offers Patagonian-inspired cooking centered around wood, smoke, and open-fire grilling. It is best known for its steaks and dramatic live-fire cooking, but the entire experience feels distinctive. This is a great choice when you want a hearty dinner and a lively atmosphere.
Ultramar
Located on the working waterfront in Cape Porpoise, Ultramar pairs locally sourced seafood with Mediterranean flavors and wood-fired cooking. The harbor setting is part of what makes it so special. I would plan some extra time before or after dinner to walk around Cape Porpoise and take in the view of the fishing boats and Goat Island Lighthouse.
The Clam Shack
For a classic Maine experience, it's hard to beat The Clam Shack. Located right beside the bridge in Dock Square, it is known for lobster rolls, fried clams, haddock, onion rings, and other traditional New England favorites. It's casual, seasonal, and perfect for grabbing lunch to enjoy outside.
Pinsa Kennebunk
Pinsa is a great option when you want to pick up an easy dinner after a day at the beach. It specializes in Roman-style pinsa, which has a lighter, airier crust than traditional pizza, along with freshly made focaccia sandwiches. It's particularly convenient for takeout.
Rosella Sushi KPT
Rosella is easily one of my favorite places for sushi in the area. Located inside The Grand Hotel in Kennebunk's Lower Village, it offers thoughtful, sustainably sourced sushi and sashimi, creative seasonal dishes, and wonderful cocktails. The dining room is intimate, so making a reservation is a good idea.
Earth at Hidden Pond
Earth at Hidden Pond is as much an experience as it is a meal. The wooded setting, candlelight, beautiful interiors, garden-inspired cocktails, and seasonal farm-to-table menu make it one of the most romantic restaurants in Kennebunkport. This would be one of my top recommendations for celebrating an engagement, anniversary, or other special occasion.
White Barn Inn and Little Barn
The White Barn Inn Restaurant is an iconic choice for an elegant evening and a true destination dining experience. It is ideal for a milestone celebration or a particularly romantic night out.
Little Barn, located at the inn, offers a more relaxed alternative with approachable dishes inspired by Maine farms and fisheries. It still feels special and beautifully done, but is a little more casual than the main dining room.
A Final Local Tip
Kennebunkport restaurants can fill quickly during the summer, fall weekends, and Christmas Prelude, so I recommend checking seasonal hours and making dinner reservations in advance whenever possible. For casual stops such as The Clam Shack or Pinsa, building a little flexibility into your day makes the experience more relaxed.
