Restaurants in Belfast, ME

Anchoring the Belfast waterfront, the locals’ favorite pub is the taproom of Marshall Wharf Brewing Company (2 Pinchy Lane; tel. 207/338-1707), known for “big” beers not subtle on flavor or low on ABV (if you’re there in fall, try the oyster stout, a meal of a beer brewed with ten dozen live oysters in every batch). The brewery built out a massive, partially enclosed outdoor space during the pandemic, so there are tons of open-air bar tables with views of the harbor and roof for when it’s drizzly. Local restaurants take turns manning food trucks and stands, so you can expect pizza one night and burritos the next. Check the website for a schedule.

Packing a Picnic in Belfast and Searsport

Searsport has an outstanding little pocket park, Mosman Park, just off the hustle of busy Route 1; look for the post office in the center of the village, then walk downhill one block along Water Street to the water. It makes for a great quick picnic, and there’s a pretty good playground—plus bay views—and it’s free. Pick up rudimentary snacking foods and beverages at Tozier’s Market (tel. 207/548-6220), a convenience store on Route 1 just south of the Maritime Museum. Or if you’re in Belfast, one of Maine’s oldest, biggest, and best natural-foods stores, the Belfast Co-op (tel. 207/338-2532), is at 123 High St. The selection of imported beers and the cuts of organic beef are excellent; the co-op also features a deli. It’s open from 7:30am to 8pm daily.