Our Favorite Eats on Mount Desert Island and Bar Harbor
From pre-ride coffee to post-ride lobster rolls, these are our favorite local spots to refuel, relax, and savor the best of Bar Harbor.
🍽️ Our Favorite Places to Eat on Mount Desert Island
A Local’s Guide to the Best Bites Around Acadia
Exploring Mount Desert Island is an adventure for all the senses—and that includes your taste buds! From buttery lobster rolls on the dock to popovers with a mountain view, here are our top picks for where to eat around MDI.
💡 Tips for Dining on Mount Desert Island
- Make dinner reservations as early as possible—most restaurants book up quickly.
- If dining without a reservation, plan to eat before 7 PM to avoid long wait times and catch the sunset.
- Expect up to a one-hour wait at many restaurants during peak season.
- Some lobster pounds allow online ordering—order ahead when available to skip the line.
🍳 Breakfast & Brunch Gems
Café This Way – Bar Harbor
Colorful and cozy. Try the blueberry pancakes, huevos rancheros, or homemade granola. Go early—it gets busy.
The Looking Glass Restaurant – Bar Harbor
One of the best-kept breakfast secrets on the island—with panoramic views of Frenchman Bay and a menu full of fresh takes on classic breakfast dishes.
Clark Point Cafe – Southwest Harbor
A cozy, modern café offering inventive breakfast dishes and harbor views. A local favorite.
🥪 Best Place for Lunch on the Go
Opens at 6am! Deli sandwiches, fresh baked goods, and a strong local following.
Mount Desert Island Bakery – Bar Harbor
Tiny but top-notch. Sticky buns, croissants, and berry scones made fresh daily.
Mother's Kitchen – Town Hill
A cozy roadside stop for breakfast burritos, baked goods, and fresh coffee. A favorite among locals for early morning fuel.
🍔 Local Flavor, Casual Vibes
Parrilla Tapas Bar & Grill – Bar Harbor
Outdoor tapas bar offering grilled seafood, meats, and vegetarian dishes over an open flame. Casual setting with a large bar and plenty of seating.
The Chart Room – Hulls Cove
A beloved waterfront staple just a few minutes from Hulls Cove Visitor Center. Known for lobster, fried clams, and water views.
Can’t-Miss Lobster Shacks
The Travelin’ Lobster – Bar Harbor
A true working harbor experience. Watch the lobster boats pull in as you crack into a fresh catch on the dock. Order the lobster dinner with corn and coleslaw, or grab a lobster BLT for a twist on the classic.
Beal’s Lobster Pier – Southwest Harbor
Pick your lobster fresh from the tank and enjoy casual waterfront dining. Known for their generous lobster rolls and iconic blueberry soda.
C-Ray’s Lobster – Hulls Cove
Low-key, local, and one of the best-kept secrets. Fresh lobster dinners, clams, corn, and a perfect spot after an Acadia ride. Picnic tables only—no frills, all flavor.
🍷 Date Night & Dinner Reservations
Havana – Bar Harbor
Upscale, chef-driven, and Caribbean-inspired. Try the scallops with coconut risotto or duck with mango glaze. (Yes—President Obama really ate here!)
Project Social – Bar Harbor
Tapas-style plates, craft cocktails, and a warm, modern space. Great for couples or a night out with friends.
La Bella Vita – Bar Harbor
An elegant waterfront option with a Mediterranean flair. Great for celebrating a special occasion over pasta, wine, and harbor views.
🌄 Sunset Dining with a View
Abel's Lobster – Mount Desert
Classic Maine lobster and seafood on Somes Sound, with peaceful views and picnic-style tables—perfect for golden hour.
Batson River Fish Camp – Southwest Harbor
Casual dockside dining at The Claremont Hotel. Small plates, lobster rolls, and sunset cocktails with a view.
Terrace Grille – Bar Harbor Inn
Outdoor dining on the waterfront with sweeping views of Frenchman Bay. Seafood, salads, and Downeast lobster bakes.
🍦 Ice cream and Sweet Treats
Mount Desert Island Ice Cream – Bar Harbor
Nationally acclaimed for bold, small-batch flavors. Try the sea salt caramel or blueberry basil.
Udder Heaven – Bar Harbor (Route 3)
Family-friendly with big portions and fun flavors. Located next to mini golf—open late in summer!
Hungry Yet?
From the moment you arrive on MDI, you’ll find that great meals are just as much a part of the adventure as scenic hikes and coastal views. Whether you’re grabbing a lobster roll to go or sitting down for a five-course meal, we hope this guide helps you eat like a local.
Let us know your favorite—and don’t forget to tag us @acadiaebikeadventure when you share your foodie finds!