After our article featuring west-coasters eating Maine foods for the first time, we felt it was only proper to give some attention to the foods included. The reactions of the participants may have been dramatic (our chowder isn’t THAT strange), but it really highlighted how unique Maine cuisine can be. So, in honor of our great state’s culinary traditions, here are 10 iconic foods in Maine that we know you’ll love. Or, at least tolerate. After all, some of the most popular foods in Maine could be considered, well…weird. Read on to see if you agree...
1. Maine Corn Chowder
Maine's corn chowder is primarily for summer days, but it's thick and comforting enough to keep you warm in the winter. Except, you're going to need fresh corn for this so make sure you're cooking it up while it's in season.
2. Whoopie Pies
Because, when you're in the only state that has an "official state treat," you better try and love that official state treat!
3. Moxie
Perhaps the most debated of all Maine delicacies, you either love the medicinal drink or hate it. If you grew up in Maine it was never far from your childhood, though it's been made significantly sweeter in modern times. We're not sure if that's an improvement or a detriment.
4. Blueberry Pie
The best Maine blueberry pie is made with wild blueberries, which means it's only really in season for a portion of the year. But, if you happen to visit during the off-season, go for it anyway. Frozen authentic Maine blueberries are better than no blueberries!
5. Fiddleheads
As a side or sauteed and served up on their own, these wild-growing plants are the quintessential Maine find. In the summer, you'll be tempted to pull over to the side of the road to get some fresh ones for dinner. Go with the urge! It's worth it.
6. Maine Baked Beans
Yes, they're different than what you eat in Boston. For one thing, you'll find Maine baked beans to be much less sweet than what you're used to.
7. Brown Bread
Ideally, it should be steamed in a can and served with some Maine baked beans. Then, and only then, will you be eating like a real Mainer.
8. Lobstah
You knew we couldn't leave this off the list. No matter how you choose to serve it up, Maine lobster is as Vacationland as you can get! We're partial to this method - lay them out on the beach, get a pot and boil those suckers over an open fire. Then, watch the sunset.
9. Lobstah Rolls
Even though lobster is already on the list, no article promising iconic Maine foods would be complete without a photo of a lobster roll. So, here you go!
10. ...ANY seafood, really.
It's not all lobster and laughter here in Maine. Don't forget that Maine is a great place to eat your weight in fried scallops, clams, and haddock!
Some of these weird Maine foods may seem odd to outsiders but they are perfect for us, and we are proud of them. What do you consider to be the most iconic Maine food? Is there anything you absolutely will NOT try? Let us know in the comments below.
Check out this fun YouTube video by George and Cris eating the most popular foods in Maine:
https://youtu.be/j8go1nTq0Gc
If you’re searching for great places to eat while in town, take a look at this site listing some of the best restaurants in Maine.
Subscribe to our newsletter
Get the latest updates and news
Thank you for subscribing!