Enjoy the Best Bites in York: Fresh Seafood to Cozy Comfort Food
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Perched on the southern tip of the state, York, Maine, is the kind of place that makes you want to slow down, soak up the salty ocean breeze, and savor everything this coastal town offers. It’s an attractive getaway for anyone looking to enjoy rugged shorelines, sandy beaches, and the iconic Nubble Lighthouse.
And when you’ve worked up an appetite, York’s food scene is as inviting as its views. From fresh-off-the-boat lobster rolls to cozy comfort food and upscale waterfront dining, these top restaurants in York serve meals worth savoring.
Enjoy the Refined Flavors at 1637 & Ship’s Cellar Pub
480 York St., York Harbor
York Harbor Inn’s menu has won awards of all kinds, from Food and Wine Magazine to Country Living Magazine. Country Living Magazine selected York Harbor Inn as Inn of the Month, mentioning its Ship’s Cellar Pub as great for a casual lunch or dinner.
This famous dining room is styled like an old-fashioned ship, so you can dine in style while enjoying gourmet pub fare and a glass of house wine. Weekends also bring the chance to listen to live music by the ocean.
For a fine-dining experience, eat in the 1637 Main Dining Room. In the chic dining room, you can enjoy freshly caught haddock, scallops, lobster, fresh salads, and gourmet cuts of veal and chicken. Make sure to order a cocktail or glass of house wine with your meal.
Executive Chef Bonsey has been recognized as one of the top chefs in Maine and one of only a few hundred Chefs accredited by the American Culinary Federation to the American Academy of Chefs.
Whether you dine in the ocean view 1637 or the Ship’s Cellar Pub, you’re certain to have an enjoyable experience!
Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth at The Goldenrod
2 Railroad Ave, York Beach
The Goldenrod has been serving customers in its gourmet candy shop since 1896! In the decades since, countless customers have enjoyed treats at its soda fountain and delicious meals in its restaurant. It’s a York tradition to stop at The Goldenrod while strolling along the beach.
Cape Neddick Lobster Pound
60 Shore Rd, Cape Neddick, York
Whether you’re looking for hard or soft shell lobster dishes, the Cape Neddick Lobster Pound (aka The Pound) is open year-round with seasonal specialties.
The expansive menu makes this much more than just a seafood shack. Plus, seating is available inside, on the deck, or by the fireplace. Eating at The Pound is more than a meal – It’s a York tradition since 1959.
Get All the Comfort You Need at Inn on the Blues
7 Ocean Ave, York
Inn on the Blues has been serving delicious food, rockin’ music, and a fun dining experience since it opened its doors in the 19th century! The menu includes seasonal items like swordfish sandwiches, signature burgers, and gourmet flatbreads.
The inn staff prides itself on combining tradition and innovation with new tunes and new, amazing dishes.
Nick’s Steakhouse
369 US Route 1 ,York
Perfect for a night to dress up and savor a long meal, Nick’s Steakhouse brings the elegance of a fancy steakhouse with a creative menu that includes items like blueberry bourbon bacon and Wagyu brisket. Be sure to make a reservation for this fine dining experience.
Indulge in Seafood at Foster’s Clambakes and Catering
5 Axholme Rd, York
Foster’s Clambakes and Catering has been providing York with the best in clambakes since 1951! This quaint eatery has served some big guests, including catering at the White House and the Pentagon.
But, everyone is welcome to enjoy a meal at Foster’s, whether you want a classic clambake, seasonal fish entree, or classic barbecue.
Have a Gourmet Meal at The Central Restaurant & Bar
127 Long Sands Rd, York
The Central Restaurant & Bar is a stunning upscale eatery in the heart of York, Maine. Here, you can enjoy gourmet comfort food, such as pork dumplings, Korean barbecue sirloin steak tips, and haddock Milanese.
You might want to finish your meal with a glass of aged port or an espresso martini.
The Bar Next Door
127 Long Sands Rd Ste 8, York
The Bar Next Door is an upscale-casual neighborhood restaurant and bar in the heart of York. Located beside its sister restaurant, The Central, it serves internationally influenced cuisine alongside fun, creative drinks in a laid-back setting.
Seasonal outdoor seating adds to the appeal during warmer weather, and takeout is available for those who would rather enjoy their meal elsewhere.
Order Maine Inspirations at Shearwater at Stage Neck Inn
8 Stage Neck Rd, York Harbor
Stage Neck Inn is a gorgeous oceanside resort in York Harbor, but it also offers some of the town’s most stellar dining options at Shearwater.
Guests and outside visitors alike are welcome to enjoy fresh, seasonal dishes such as Maine-inspired seafood dishes and gourmet sandwiches. Stage Neck also has an extensive wine and cocktail list.
The Wharf 24
277 Long Beach Ave, York Beach
The Wharf 24 is a York Beach food truck serving made-from-scratch comfort food with creative flavors and a coastal Maine feel.
A mobile sibling of the now-closed Frye Guys, it brings the same family-run standards to the shoreline in a relaxed, casual setting. Stop by for an easygoing meal near the beach, or book the truck to bring its comfort-food menu to a private event.
Dine With an Ocean View at Dockside Restaurant
22 Harris Island Rd, York
The Dockside Restaurant has been a hidden gem of York since it opened in 1952. This family-owned, oceanside venue offers stunning views of lesser-seen parts of the Maine coast, including rocky cliffs and coves.
It’s the perfect entertainment while you enjoy whole lobster, fresh haddock, or sirloin steak.
Deck at Dockside
22 Harris Island Rd, York
The Deck at Dockside offers laid-back, open-air dining with scenic views of York Harbor and a touch of tiki bar flair.
The menu features fresh hand-tossed salads, lobster rolls, crispy fried clams, juicy burgers, and craft cocktails. Its fun, friendly atmosphere makes it an inviting spot to enjoy classic Maine flavors by the water.
Enjoy an Upscale Experience at The York River Landing
150 US-1, York
The York River Landing offers a raw bar, as well as an upscale grill and seafood comfort dishes, such as prime rib poutine, lobster rolls, and pulled pork sandwiches. The craft beer menu is, unsurprisingly, extensive!
The Landing is one of the trendiest York restaurants, offering year-round coastal views, craft beers, and great food on Route 1.
York Street Kitchen
7 York St, York
York Street Kitchen is a casual local spot serving scratch-made soups, sandwiches, salads, and sourdough breads prepared fresh each day.
Choose from hot sandwiches like chicken pesto, Cuban, and meatball, or lighter options – including curried chicken, roasted turkey, hummus veggie, and tuna salad. It’s an easy choice for a fresh, satisfying lunch in York.
Take in Lighthouse Views While Eating at Lobster Cove Restaurant
756 York St, York
Lobster Cove Restaurant makes it possible for diners to eat beside the ocean at any time of the year. In the summer, relax on the bright, open patio. In the winter, cuddle up by the fire while you eat.
The restaurant offers views of Nubble Lighthouse, a gorgeous backdrop while enjoying gourmet burgers or seafood dishes.
Rosalie and Phil’s
4 Main St, York
Rosalie and Phil’s specializes in Italian sweets and sandwiches. It’s a simple stop for anyone craving a savory Italian-style lunch or something sweet to finish it off.
Get Old-Fashioned Maine Favorites at Fox’s Lobster House
8 Sohier Park Rd, York
Fox’s Lobster House has been a York institution since 1966. This might just be the most quintessential “Maine” eatery you’ve ever experienced, serving fresh lobster, Maine blueberry pie, seafood, and ice cream in view of the Atlantic Ocean.
At Fox’s, lobsters are still boiled daily the old-fashioned way, using the same method since the 1930s.
Experience Casual American Classics at Fat Tomato Grill
241 York St #3, York
Fat Tomato Grill in the Village is one of the best places in York for a casual, delicious meal featuring American classics.
Signature burgers and sandwiches are the most popular items here. But, you can also find soup, salad, gyros, fried zucchini, salt and pepper fries, and much more.
Enjoy Fusion Dishes at Green Leaves Chinese-Japanese Restaurant & Lounge
647 US-1, York
Green Leaves is York’s premier Chinese-Japanese fusion restaurant and lounge. Here, you can relax in the beautiful, intimate dining room while enjoying award-winning dishes.
The restaurant offers a full sushi bar, as well as Chinese-American favorites. Also, there’s a drinks menu that features popular Polynesian cocktails and much more.
Walkers Maine
1273 US Route 1, Cape Neddick
Walkers Maine brings together thoughtfully prepared food, carefully selected wine, and warm hospitality in Cape Neddick.
The restaurant is the culinary vision of chef Justin Walker and sommelier Danielle Johnson Walker, who previously honed their skills at Arrows Restaurant and Earth at Hidden Pond.
Their experience and shared passion shape an inviting dining experience rooted in food, wine, and Maine’s natural surroundings.
Eat Classic Pub Fare at Ruby’s Wood Grill
433 US-1, York
If you want to enjoy a delicious meal while cheering on your favorite New England sports team, Ruby’s Wood Grill is the place you will want to visit in York.
This combination restaurant and sports bar offers coverage of all your favorite sports teams — from Maine to New Hampshire, that is. Relax with a drink while enjoying classic comfort food and pub fare.
Lobster In The Rough
1000 US-1, York
Lobster in the Rough has been a York gathering place since 1977, serving fresh seafood and cold drinks in a laid-back outdoor setting.
Stop by for a lobster roll, then settle in around the fire pits for live music or a game of bocce or horseshoes. It’s an easygoing choice for a classic Maine summer night with family or friends.
Bite Into Chinese-American Favs at Bamboo Garden Restaurant
8 Market Pl Dr, York
Bamboo Garden Restaurant is one of the top dining spots for classic Chinese-American favorites.
There’s something for everyone here, from egg drop soup and General Tso’s chicken to crispy pineapple shrimp, Mongolian beef, chicken in lobster sauce, and vegetarian options galore.
Wild Willy’s Burgers
765 US Route 1, York
Making “Real Burgers for Real Burger Lovers,” Wild Willy’s Burgers is the best place to go for a juicy beef sandwich.
The restaurant focuses on using quality ingredients and preparing each dish with care. You’ll find other sandwiches (including chicken), chili, and various French fry sides on the menu, too.
For drinks, Wild Willy’s has fresh-squeezed fruit drinks, draft root beer, and frappes. Plus, there’s ice cream for dessert.
Order Food & Cocktails at Stones Throw
123 Long Beach Ave, York
Stones Throw is a well-known hotel located on the coast of York. But, it also offers stellar dining options, including a bar that serves signature cocktails.
Guests are welcome to sip on a Breakwater cocktail while eating locally-sourced Maine jerk salmon, chickpea sweet potato burgers, California salads, and more. There are also vegetarian and vegan options!
The Union Bluff Grill
8 Beach St, York Beach
Part of the Union Bluff Hotel, The Union Bluff Grill serves elevated coastal dishes with a front-row view of the ocean. The menu leans on fresh, local ingredients and creative takes on New England favorites.
It’s the kind of place where you can sip a cocktail by the fireplace or enjoy a sunset dinner at the bar – laid-back, a little upscale, and all about good food with a view. Check the schedule of events and specials: There’s something for everyone.
Sun and Surf
264 Long Beach Ave, York Beach
In case the name didn’t give it away, Sun and Surf is one of York’s most popular joints for oceanside dining. Here, you can enjoy views over the Atlantic while dining on fresh seafood items.
The menu changes seasonally to ensure that you get the freshest local ingredients prepared to perfection.
York54
449 US-1, York
York54 is a trendy, artisanal pizzeria offering craft beer, gourmet pizzas, sandwiches, and gelato. In its intimate setting alongside the Atlantic Ocean, you can design your pizza or order one of the signature favorites.
There are daily food and drink specials, including a build-your-own four-pack for local craft beers.
One Visit Isn’t Enough: York’s Restaurants Will Keep You Coming Back
If you’re heading to York, Maine, come hungry because this town knows how to eat! Whether you’re craving a buttery lobster roll, a classic Maine clambake, or just a really good burger, you’ll find something delicious around every corner.
But, it isn’t just about the food! When you’re not indulging, there’s York has plenty to explore – from scenic coastal walks to historic sites and beachside adventures. And, after a day of eating and exploring, you’ll want a cozy place to recharge, so be sure to check out York’s lodging options.