Kittery is a quaint small town located on the border of Maine and New Hampshire. Situated on the ocean, Kittery is a sought-after travel destination for many. Visitors and locals can enjoy miles of exquisite coastline, sprawling woodlands, and a vibrant shopping scene. Kittery blends the best of the Maine wilderness with access to lively town centers.

In addition to its selection of unique, locally-owned specialty shops, Kittery offers a stellar dining scene accented by the region's distinctive culinary culture. Filled with options for fresh seafood, waterfront views, and luxury dining, Kittery is home to classic eateries that keep guests returning for more. Check out these top-rated local restaurants if you want a bite to eat in town.

7 Wallingford Square, Kittery, ME

Asian fusion cuisine finds new levels at Anju Noodle Bar. Wallingford Square brims with history, and Anju, set in a former mill, is a fresh way to experience the neighborhood’s charm. The excellent food belies the restaurant’s unique decor. The noodle dishes are hearty and satisfying, while the rice dishes are light and flavorful. The menu has vegan and vegetarian options, including ramen and kimchi. You can choose from several garnishes, including house-made hot sauce, and you can see your food being prepared from the bar.

2 Government St, Kittery, ME

As the go-to gastropub in Kittery, The Black Birch occupies a prime spot on this list, and for good reason. You can find it in Wallingford Square, a site of recent growth, culinary and otherwise. It’s set in a former post office, though you wouldn’t know it from the inside. The seating arrangement comprises a communal table in the center and smaller tables along the perimeter. The bar is made from reclaimed wood and is perfect for after-work drinks. Weekends bring high energy to the bar, whose patrons spill into an outdoor courtyard. Order from a menu apportioned into small, medium, and large sections. Many items are conducive to sharing — try the roasted cauliflower hummus, empanadas, or steamed Maine mussels.

3 Badgers Island W, Kittery, ME

Buoy Shack is perhaps the best reason to cross Memorial Bridge into Badger’s Island. The restaurant bills itself as a lobster shack and seafood restaurant with Maine’s freshest lobster roll. Its lobster is caught in York, Maine, whereas the oysters come from Durham, N.H. Its island location yields scenic waterfront views across the Piscataqua River into New Hampshire. Besides the delicious lobster rolls, a few local favorites include fried fish sandwiches, the Buoy salad, New England street corn, mussels, and chilled lobster dip. As is typical in Kittery, Buoy Shack serves local craft beers, wines, and specialty cocktails that pair well with its savory menu offerings.

1 Government St, Kittery, ME

At Festina Lente, the dishes are as tasty as the kitchen is small. The restaurant sources ingredients from local farmers, fishermen, and other purveyors. The menu reflects the seasonality of each dish, making for a refined dining experience all year round. The Italian “Festina Lente” translates loosely to “make haste slowly.” In keeping with that sentiment, this intimate restaurant exudes comfort and relaxation. With some of the best service in New England, Festina Lente comes highly recommended, whether you’re planning a date or taking the family out to dinner.

88 Pepperrell Rd, Kittery Point, ME

Pepperell Cove at Kittery Point has expanded to three restaurants — Bistro 1828, Ski Club, and Frisbee’s Wharf.

Bistro 1828 and Ski Club are jointly operated by the same co-owners and executive chefs. The latter is on the third floor and features an expansive deck with incredible views of the cove. The Ski Club includes a full bar; its name commemorates the Pepperell Cove water skiing club of yore.

Bistro 1828 at Pepperell Cove is arguably the go-to restaurant for fine dining in Kittery. The menu features such gems as encrusted scallops, a Formaggio (cheese) board, and classic lobster rolls. The specialty cocktails round out the offerings at this spectacular eatery.

Frisbee’s Wharf is an exclusively outdoor dining experience with signature panoramic views and fresh air from the cove. Diners enjoy fresh seafood and burgers. Though Frisbee’s has a large tent, the venue is weather dependent and may close for lightning or other inclement weather.

326 US-1, Kittery, ME

Maine is known for its world-renowned seafood, giving those living in Kittery the chance to experience the best. Robert’s Maine Grill brings high-quality, local seafood right into the heart of Kittery. After opening in 2006, this eatery has become a staple in the community.

Robert’s Maine Grill is located on the banks of Spruce Creek, giving guests a waterfront view as they dine. This restaurant is famous in the area for its lobster, fried seafood, and modern American dishes. Robert’s Maine Grill sources ingredients as close to Kittery as possible, including seafood, lending its menu a freshness.

460 US-1, Kittery, ME

Located up the road from the town center, When Pigs Fly is as popular for its name as for its savory wood-fired pizzas and sandwiches. The high-ceilinged industrial space seats 160; you can take your party to the screened-in porch, outdoor seating area, or bar. Patrons feel embraced by the smoky scents of the wood-burning ovens. The blackened salmon sandwich is a local favorite, and you can’t go wrong with the famous pizzas, which are handcrafted Neapolitan style and feature the freshest possible ingredients — all the way down to the mozzarella, which is made fresh daily.

Be appraised that seating fills up quickly during peak times (and the restaurant only accepts reservations for large parties). While you wait, order an appetizer and sample the craft beers on tap. The bar sources its brews nationally and internationally, including specials from Belgium and Denmark. Adjacent to the pizzeria is the restaurant’s Company Store, which sells classic and artisan bread, among other goods.

If you are looking to call Kittery home and put all these world-class eateries in your backyard, having a local Real Estate Agent on your side can make all the difference. Crystal + Carr Team has the expertise in the local area to help match you with the perfect piece of Kittery real estate. Reach out today to get all your questions answered and begin your home-buying journey.