Maine isn’t just about stunning coastlines and fresh lobster—it’s also a fantastic place for food lovers who want to explore local flavors. What makes Maine stand out is its tight-knit communities, locally owned eateries, and fresh seafood that tastes like it just came out of the Atlantic. These food tours offer a taste of that authenticity, combining delicious bites with stories about the region’s maritime heritage. Our favorites include a mix of guided culinary explorations, scenic walking tastings, and intimate visits to beloved spots. I especially like the Boothbay Harbor Bites Guided Food Tour, which combines five local gems with a friendly guide and plenty of shopping opportunities, making for a well-rounded experience.
Whether you’re a dedicated foodie, a curious traveler, or someone looking for a fun way to get to know Maine’s small towns, these tours deliver. From lobster chowder by the harbor to artisan cheeses and handmade pastries, each offers something unique that captures Maine’s culinary spirit.
Quick Overview
This list features three top-rated food tours in Maine, each with its own flavor and focus:
– Two tours are walking experiences with tastings at locally owned shops and scenic views (see here)
– One is a guided tour focusing on multiple restaurants and specialty shops, offering a deeper dive into Boothbay Harbor’s food scene (see here)
– The third is a longer, more comprehensive tour that combines history with food in a 3-hour walking experience (see here)
Now, let’s explore each of these tours in detail.
1. Boothbay Harbor Bites Guided Food Tour
At number 1, the Boothbay Harbor Bites Guided Food Tour offers a curated taste of this historic fishing village. For around $95 per person, you’ll spend about two hours exploring five locally owned restaurants and specialty shops, all while hearing stories about Boothbay Harbor’s maritime past. The tour is small and personal, with a friendly guide leading the way, making it easy to ask questions and get personalized recommendations. The stops include Kaler’s Restaurant for lobster chowder—a true Maine classic—Eventide Specialties for cheese and local gifts, Coastal Maine Popcorn Co for handmade popcorn, and Harbor Treats for a mini cannoli made by pastry chef Tuğba.
What sets this tour apart is the quality and variety of food, combined with the chance to shop at each stop. The lobster chowder is a standout, and the handmade cannoli offers a sweet ending. The tour’s reviews highlight how fun and filling it is, with one customer calling it “the best way to spend two hours with Cat and eat too.” If you want an authentic, taste-driven experience that combines food, stories, and shopping, this is a great pick.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a relaxed, social experience with delicious local eats and a good dose of Boothbay Harbor’s charm.
2. Morning Catch Walking Foodie Tour of Boothbay Harbor
Our number 2 choice is the Morning Catch Walking Foodie Tour, also priced at $95. It offers a lively 2-hour stroll through Boothbay Harbor’s favorite spots, focusing on breakfast and coffee. The tour starts at Brisetto’s Second Cup with a mini fruit smoothie and coffee, blending Romanian roots with Italian flair. Then, you’ll visit Woodsong Market for a hot latte and Lox Bagel Bite, exploring Maine-made foods and gifts. Pastry chef Tuğba makes an appearance here too, offering a mini blueberry Danish that pairs perfectly with the scenery.
The highlight is walking along the Harbor Treats footbridge, which provides spectacular views and photo opportunities. The final stop is at Eventide Specialties, where you’ll sample a mini scone and browse local products. Reviewers say this tour is “the best morning food tour,” praising the quality of food and the engaging guide, Cat.
Bottom Line: Ideal for early risers who want a mix of local breakfast favorites, scenic walks, and a taste of Maine’s coffee culture.
3. Boothbay Harbor: 3-Hour Foodie Walking Tour
Coming in at number 3, the Boothbay Harbor: 3-Hour Foodie Walking Tour offers a more comprehensive experience for $164 per person. Over three hours, you’ll explore the harbor on foot, sampling a variety of foods and drinks designed to showcase the region’s best flavors. This tour emphasizes both the culinary scene and the history of Boothbay Harbor, making it perfect for travelers who want a deeper understanding of the town’s roots alongside their tastings.
While reviews are mixed, noting a slightly lower rating (3.8/5), the longer duration allows for more relaxed pacing and a wider variety of food. It’s best suited for those who want a fuller, more immersive experience, possibly combining it with other sightseeing. The tour includes visits to iconic local spots, sampling everything from seafood to sweets, with an emphasis on the town’s rich food culture.
Bottom Line: Designed for those who prefer a longer, more detailed exploration of Boothbay Harbor’s food and history.
$164 per person
How to Choose Your Maine Food Tour
When deciding between these options, consider your priorities. If you want a quick, flavor-packed introduction to Boothbay Harbor’s best eateries, the Boothbay Harbor Bites Guided Food Tour offers a perfect balance of variety and intimacy. For a scenic breakfast-focused walk, the Morning Catch Walking Foodie Tour is ideal, especially if you enjoy coffee and pastries. If you’re looking for a more extensive exploration that includes history and a wider food selection, the Boothbay Harbor: 3-Hour Foodie Walking Tour might be your best bet.
Keep in mind factors like budget, time, and interest in history or shopping. Booking early is recommended, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred date and ensure a smooth experience.
Food tours in Maine are a great way to combine sightseeing with delicious bites. Whether you choose a quick tasting tour, a scenic breakfast walk, or a longer culinary adventure, each offers a chance to see Maine through its food. For a first visit, I’d recommend starting with the Boothbay Harbor Bites Guided Food Tour for its variety and local charm, but if you’re a true foodie, the longer 3-hour tour might be worth the extra time. Whichever you pick, Maine’s fresh seafood, local cheeses, and handmade pastries will leave you eager to come back for more. Book early, bring your appetite, and enjoy the flavors of Maine.