6 Best Restaurants in Freeport, Maine
One of the many great things about the Cozy Rock Cabin’s location is its proximity to one of the best “foodie” cities in the country: Portland. Only a 20-minute drive, you could head there for pretty much every meal and not run out of options. But if you feel like sticking closer to your new home-away-from-home or you’re trying to find some great eats while you check out Freeport’s outlets, we’ve rounded up a few of our favorite Freeport restaurants.
*Note: We suggest checking restaurant websites or calling first. Some restaurants operate seasonally or have reduced hours in the off season, and due to COVID-19, there has been a shortage of waitstaff throughout the state affecting restaurants’ abilities to remain open and run at full capacity.
Broad Arrow Tavern
The Broad Arrow Tavern has been the Harraseeket Inn’s on-site restaurant since 1984. It offers both take out and dine-in, specializing in grilled meats, salads, brick-oven pizzas and seafood. Located just two blocks from LL Bean with a casual, friendly atmosphere, nice outdoor seating and gluten free options, The Broad Arrow Tavern makes a great stop for lunch or dinner.
Reservations suggested during high season (June-October)
Happy Hour - 3pm - 6pm, Sunday - Thursday
Top dish: Crab cakes
Dog friendly
Jameson Tavern
The Jameson Tavern has been around...for a long time. Built in 1779 as a family residence and converted to a tavern in 1801 by Captain Samuel Jameson and his wife, the tavern has witnessed a lot of history. This might explain one of its claims to fame: its spooky nature. Many people have claimed encounters with ghosts, including a young girl who’s said to be called “Emily” and an older gentleman in a top hat.
Whether you’re drawn to the tavern by its history, spooky reputation or their happy hour (daily from 2:30 to 5:30), you can expect to enjoy a friendly and cozy atmosphere and a delicious meal. Their speciality is seafood (try their Haddock Sandwich or their Baked Stuffed Lobster), so if you’re looking for something else, we suggest the next restaurant on our list.
Reservations are not accepted. First come, first serve
Happy Hour - 2:30 to 5:30, daily
Top dish: Baked Stuffed Lobster (And their best kept secret? The lobster roll lunch special served with a cup of chowder… see our blog post ‘Best Lobster Rolls in Freeport’ to learn more :)
Dog friendly on the outdoor patio.
Tuscan Brick Oven Bistro
The Tuscan Brick Oven Bistro is a modern Italian restaurant featuring fresh seafood, homemade pastas, wood-grilled steaks, wood-fired pizzas, Maine beers and a curated wine and craft cocktail menu. Enjoy dishes made with ingredients from local vendors in their casual, rustic dining room or under an umbrella on their patio.
People rave about their pizzas (crafted with dough made in-house) and other traditional Italian dishes like the Chicken Parmesan.
Reservations are highly encouraged. Maximum of eight people in one party.
Happy Hour - 3pm - 6pm, Monday - Friday
Top Dish: Fennel Sausage and Burrata Pizza
Dog friendly on the outdoor patio.
Brickyard Hollow
Brickyard Hollow was first established in Yarmouth and now has multiple locations (including one in Portland). Their Freeport location is right in the heart of downtown serving up craft beer and inventive craft pizzas. Snag a Maine blueberries, roasted shallot and lemon zest pie or try the smoked pulled pork, gouda, mac n’ cheese and jalapeño cornbread combo. If you’re not feeling the wacky combos, you can stick with old standbys like pepperoni or opt for one of their four protein bowls. My family swears this is the best pizza in town, and we can’t argue with that!
And don’t forget the beer… they have 12 taps and a rotating menu of beers that include ales, IPAs, browns, lagers and stouts. You can also pick up a four pack or growlers (available in two sizes: 32 oz and 64 oz). They also offer delivery, so if you are feeling reluctant to leave the cabin, you can get pizza and craft beer delivered directly to your door. Doesn’t get much better than that.
Dog friendly on the outdoor back patio.
Maine Beer Company
Maine is home to more than 100 craft breweries, so you could say beer is kind of a way of life here. You could plan your whole trip to Maine around visiting breweries, but whether you’re gung ho for beer or just fancy a pint, there are a couple of breweries right in Freeport worth trying.
You will want to check their website for a current tap list and food menu (they have a limited selection of pizza, salad and snacks). Consider making a reservation (they allow you to make one up to 3 days in advance), especially during the busy summer season. Doggos are welcome! You can also grab bottles to go if all you want to do is crack open a cold one while relaxing in the cabin’s hot tub. No shame. You’re on vacation in vacationland after all.
You can make reservations for outdoor tables, and this is recommended for larger groups.
Dog friendly on the outdoor patio.
Harraseeket Lunch and Lobster Co.
If you’re looking for a good ole lobster shack in the area look no further than Harraseeket Lunch and Lobster Co. Located on the water, this place is about 5 minutes south of downtown Freeport, but definitely worth it. Sit at picnic tables under the awning and watch the boats in the harbor as you eat your meal.
You can’t go wrong here, but the haddock sandwich gets a consistent thumbs up. Parking can be tight, but spots open quickly. BYOB.
Seasonal, and not open year round.
Cash only! They do have an ATM, but it’s definitely cheaper to come prepared.
Dog friendly on the patio.
Other Good Eats
Athena’s Cantina
Athena’s Cantina is a relative newcomer in the Freeport dining scene, but is already getting glowing reviews. This small, family-run restaurant serves Latin fusion cuisine in a cheerful little spot off Route 1 south of Freeport village.
Fresh ingredients, large portions and friendly service makes this restaurant a go-to place if you’re looking for something a bit different from the seafood-heavy, American cuisine predominantly found in Freeport. They also have fresh take and bake meals (available in two sizes -- family portions for four to six people or dinner for two) that can be frozen for up to two weeks. A great option if you want to grab something to have in the freezer during your stay.
Gritty McDuff’s Brew Pub
I will admit, this is Sean’s #1 most requested stop every time we’re in town. It’s definitely a spot where you’ll find the locals, along with a pretty classic bar/pub menu. They brew their own beer, and if you ask Sean you shouldn’t leave without trying their Mac ‘n Cheese (which comes with fried jalapeño peppers on top). I’m partial to their seafood chowder when they have it, and a giant pile of nachos.