Snack, Sip, or Sit & Stay A While - The Kittery Foreside

If you’re not a true Mainer then you’re ‘from away’. As part of our identity as ‘Vacationland’, Mainers know why visitors from all around the world come to see what Maine is all about. The  best way to find out for yourself is to get in on the local action, for that we encourage you to check out the buzzing Kittery Foreside food scene.

If you’re looking for the perfect foodie pit stop on your day trip, a place to sit and unwind after a long adventure, or somewhere to grab a beverage to chat up with friends and locals alike, consider stopping in the Kittery Foreside to see what’s on the menu.

Black Birch

Back when the Black Birch first opened doors, the intimate, hip little dining room was exactly what the Kittery Foreside needed. A beautiful pine bar and communal table welcomes diners to enjoy lively American comfort food in a setting where you’ll get to know your neighbor as well as the team plating up your meal. An excellent rotating menu means something new and exciting each time. Warm your soul and your belly with some good company.

Anju

We weren’t too sure what exactly ‘Freestyle Asian’ cuisine was going to bring to the downtown Kittery area, but we do know that Anju is absolutely nailing it. The menu boasts big bowls of bold, savory ramen combinations, slow roasted pork, decadent Korean wings, creative and thoughtful vegan options as well. The food is even more delicious than it is aesthetically pleasing, step into this eclectic little noodle bar and stay a while. 

Wallingford Dram

When we’re craving food, we seek out those restaurants that claim to be the best at their craft. When we’re craving a refreshing beverage, why wouldn’t we do the same and seek out the best of the best? Skip the pub crowd and heavy beers and let the experts behind the Wallingford Dram bar wow you with 6 pages worth of unique cocktails. As someone who opts for a gin-drink when it comes to cocktails, I confidently recommend the East By Gimlet with tangy, burnt-sugar notes, made with house lime cordial, lemongrass, curry leaf, and fenugreek - a summer favorite.

Festina Lente

Festina Lente translates loosely to ‘make haste slowly’. The team at Festina Lente pays homage to true Italian culture and cuisine with fresh, handmade pastas each day at their cozy yet simple dining room. As masters of the Italian craft for anything from gnocchi to raviolis, the small menu packs in carefully curated, authentic recipes for the closest thing you can get to actually dining on the Italian coast. Grab a reservation, slow it down and enjoy every bite of this Italian dining experience.