Diners' Choice: Lively restaurants in Northern Coast

OpenTable

Updated 05 November 2026

Looking for restaurants that have the most vibrant bar scenes in Northern Coast? You’re in the right place. Each month, OpenTable analyses nearly 2 million global diner reviews from the past four months. We sort the results by location and category to help you discover new favourite restaurants. It's a great partnership: you book, eat, and review. We listen...and deliver the results for all to benefit. Enjoy!

Islesford Dock Restaurant

4.8

4.8 (393)

$31 to $50

Contemporary American

Bar Harbor

About the restaurant

The Islesford Dock Restaurant & Gallery is just that - a restaurant and gallery on a dock on Islesford, Little Cranberry Island, Maine. We have a large greenhouse right out back that produces a good amount of our produce, source our lobsters from the fisherman's co-op just next door, and use Gulf of Maine seafood almost exclusively. The menu is rounded out with naturally raised meats and chicken and the service is casual but professional, warm and inviting. Make sure you get out to Islesford Dock while you're here in the area by taking the Beal & Bunker mail boat that makes multiple trips back and forth every day or take one of the several other tour boats out.

We are closed Mondays throughout the Summer. Starting in September we will be open for dinner service only, and we are closed Mondays and Tuesdays. Season ends October 1st.

Top review

TomGold

Dined on 23 Sept 2026

It’s always an amazing experience. Such a great night to close out the season…

Havana

4.8

4.8 (3683)

$31 to $50

Latin American

Bar Harbor

About the restaurant

Havana has been committed to serving local and organic meats, produce and seafood since it opened 25 years ago. All of our meats are “naturally raised” meaning no steroids, antibiotics or hormones and “humanely raised” meaning room to roam, proper shelter and gentle handling. We make every effort to buy only sustainably harvested seafood, primarily from the Gulf of Maine. We have consistently searched out New England farmers and fisherfolk to purchase product that is not only great tasting but great for the environment and local economy as well.

Top review

Bill

Dined 1 day ago

Awesome experience. Presentations are beautiful as well as tasty.

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4.8

4.8 (521)

$30 and under

Italian

Brunswick

About the restaurant

Welcome to Pomelia, where we bring the authentic flavors of Sicily to your table with a menu inspired by traditional recipes and rich culinary heritage. From delicious pastas and focaccia-style pizzas to iconic Sicilian street food, every dish is prepared with the freshest ingredients and a passion for flavor and warm hospitality.

We’re passionate about more than just food—we love sharing the stories and traditions that make Sicilian cuisine special. At Pomelia, every meal celebrates flavor, culture, and connection, served with warmth and a smile.

Step into our colorful, retro-modern restaurant and experience a space designed for joy and connection. Whether you’re visiting for a casual lunch, a family dinner, or a special night out, our lively decor and friendly vibe make Pomelia the perfect destination for any occasion.

Top review

Joanne

Dined 1 day ago

Everything was so good! We enjoyed the experience and look forward to going back soon. Thank Audrey:)

Ports of Italy - Rockport

4.7

4.7 (86)

$31 to $50

Italian

Rockport

About the restaurant

Experience authentic Italian dining at Ports of Italy, where Chef Alessandro D’Alessi brings the flavors of Italy to Rockport with handcrafted pastas, fresh seafood, house-made breads, focaccia, ravioli, and desserts prepared daily. Known for signature specialties like the whole imported Branzino roasted with rosemary and garlic, traditional Porchetta, and seasonal Maine lobster ravioli, every dish is rooted in Italian tradition and elevated with exceptional ingredients.

Located near Camden Harbor in the heart of Maine’s scenic Midcoast, the restaurant offers an elegant yet welcoming atmosphere perfect for date nights, celebrations, and memorable dinners with family and friends. Guests also enjoy an extensive wine list and warm, attentive service that keeps locals and visitors coming back year after year.

Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak season. Join us for an unforgettable evening of authentic Italian cuisine, fine wine, and genuine hospitality.

Top review

BradGold

Dined on 21 Oct 2026

Excellent in every way. Great food , incredible blood orange margaritas, fresh pasta, amazing bread You will love this restaurant

Nebo Lodge

4.7

4.7 (24)

$50 and over

American

Rockland

About the restaurant

Nebo Lodge is a small inn and restaurant on the unbridged island of North Haven, Maine.
Dining at Nebo Lodge requires a boat ride to reach North Haven. The Maine State Ferry does not accommodate dinner reservations as the last ferry departs North Haven at 3:45pm. Nebo offers a private dinner cruise to reach the island most Fridays and Saturdays; tickets can be purchased here: http://www.nebolodge.com/round-trip-dinner-cruise. The purchased tickets guarantees you a reservation here for that night at 5:00. Otherwise you need to spend the night on island or come over on your own private boat.

The Restaurant serves up a varied, seasonal menu of island-grown meat, seafood, and of course, bountiful vegetables. Homemade bread, creative cocktails, and decadent desserts serve as delicious accompaniments.

Top review

Adam

Dined on 10 Oct 2026

Whether celebrating a birthday or just enjoying dinner, Nebo always delivers. A special place where the food and experience is intentional, super local, and wonderful.

Brasserie LeBrun

4.6

4.6 (660)

$31 to $50

French

Bar Harbor

About the restaurant

Brasserie Le Brun is all about pairing beloved French classics with locally sourced ingredients. Located in the heart of Bar Harbor, Maine, we are within walking distance of many great hotels and inns. Indulge in exquisite cuisine, including signature dishes like Steak Frites and Escargot, alongside vegetarian delights such as our Mushroom Gnocchi. Whether you're savoring our culinary creations or enjoying a meticulously crafted cocktails at our extensive bar, your experience at Brasserie Le Brun promises to be nothing short of extraordinary.

Top review

Harrison

Dined on 31 Oct 2026

We came for our one year anniversary, the food and service were both excellent. The restaurant is very clean and the ambiance was relaxing. Highly recommend the bone marrow and steak au poivre. A slice of France in Maine. We will be back!

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4.6

4.6 (70)

$31 to $50

Contemporary American

Rockland

About the restaurant

Located on Main Street steps away from The Strand, the Farnsworth Museum, the Center for Maine Contemporary Art, and other Rockland attractions, North Beacon Oyster offers a modern variety of fresh, local selections in a bright, friendly space. From a curated selection of locally cultivated oysters and seafood to Maine-raised beef, from produce grown on local soil to beers produced by award-winning Maine breweries, from internationally lauded wines to carefully crafted cocktails, NBO has something for everyone. Make reservations for a table or walk in and snag a patio seat at this local favorite to enjoy great food and beverages in a boisterous and welcoming space in the heart of Rockland and midcoast Maine.

Top review

Alyse

Dined on 24 Oct 2026

Always a wonderful staff who are very thoughtful and well-versed in the ingredients and their menu. Always feel satisfied when I come away from this amazing restaurant.

Barncastle Hotel and Restaurant

4.4

4.4 (142)

$31 to $50

Italian

Blue Hill

About the restaurant

Chef Owen Royce-Nagel and his wife, both Sommelier- and Cicerone-certified, Lizzie Szczepaniak, have been crafting their skills over the last two+ decades all across the world. The menu is inspired by their European travels and local New England ingredients. Dishes are intended to be shared and bread is meant to be broken in their cozy dining room and pub. The beverage program features a natural and biodynamic wine list, classic cocktails, and craft Maine beer. Located in the heart of the Blue Hill Peninsula, in between Camden and Acadia National Park, it is the perfect place to gather with friends and family.

Top review

Angela

Dined on 24 Oct 2026

Staff was lovely as always and the food was equally delicious!

Testa's Bar & Grill

4.2

4.2 (67)

$30 and under

American

Bar Harbor

About the restaurant

A Bar Harbor Tradition for Over 90 Years

Located in the heart of Bar Harbor, Testa’s Bar & Grill has been serving up delicious food and warm hospitality for over 90 years. A true local staple, we’re known for our highly competitive lobster pricing and our famous lobster tacos, a must-try for visitors and locals alike! Whether you’re stopping in for a casual lunch, a hearty dinner, or drinks with a view, Testa’s offers something for everyone. We welcome large parties and are proudly dog-friendly! Come experience the charm, history, and unbeatable flavors that have made Testa’s a Bar Harbor favorite for nearly a century. Walk ins always welcome!

Top review

Lynn

Dined on 19 Oct 2026

Our server was excellent. This was our first stop Bar Harbor very impressed with the menu and the food.

The Loft Raw Bar & Seafood Grill

4.2

4.2 (42)

$31 to $50

Seafood

Bar Harbor

About the restaurant

Bar Harbor’s Premier Seafood Destination

Elevate your coastal dining experience to the next level, fresh seafood and a vibrant atmosphere come together at The Loft. We’re proud to serve a large selection of hyper-local oysters, handpicked from the pristine waters of Maine, alongside towering seafood towers and creative favorites like our signature sushi burritos. Set in a contemporary upscale casual space, The Loft offers the perfect vibe for everything from relaxed dinners to lively nights out. Join us for late night bites, sip cocktails during the best happy hour in town, and savor seafood done right, every single time. Whether you're an oyster aficionado or just in it for the vibes, The Loft is your go-to spot for fresh, local, and unforgettable.

Top review

LarryGold

Dined on 26 Oct 2026

Enjoyed The Loft both in food and atmosphere. The sushi roll was excellent as was the Lady Lobster dish. Our waitress was attentive and very friendly.

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