Maine Restaurant Week

Why Maine Restaurant Week 2021 is More Important Than Ever

February 26, 2021

Hard to believe that it’s almost March, but it is. Every day feels the same, and if you’re starting to wonder if 2021 and 2020 are identical, same here. But one thing remains the same: Maine Restaurant Week is happening this year from March 1-March 12th!

And now, more than ever, your favorite restaurants really need you. I know, I may sound like a broken record, but it’s true. Being part of the restaurant industry right now is tough, and it’s been heartbreaking watching Portland restaurants and establishments close and struggle for the past year.

If you can afford it, please go out and support them during Maine Restaurant Week 2021. It’s a little different this year (what isn’t different this year?) but many places are offering curbside takeout options in addition to indoor dining, as well as some outdoor dining.

Keep reading below to get an idea of some of the places I’m hoping to check out, as well as a list of all the places you can go for outdoor dining in the state of Maine that are participating in MRW as of publication on February 26th.

Where You Can Find Me

Okay, there’s no guarantee I’ll make it to all of these places, and who knows, maybe I’ll make it to more this year. Here’s my Maine Restaurant Week 2021 wishlist:

  • Pine Point Grill, Scarborough
  • Stroudwater Distillery, Portland
  • Boone’s, Portland
  • TIQA, Portland
  • David’s, Portland

I am trying to stick to places that you can eat outside, since it’s seemed like a good strategy throughout the pandemic so far. Granted, eating outside in February and March can get a little chilly, so it’s all about those layers, blankets, and hats, gloves, and warm boots to make sure you don’t freeze.

Oh and of course, a hot alcoholic beverage to warm you from the inside out. Always order anything that remotely resembles mulled wine if you’re dining outside. It’s probably one of the best tips I’ve picked up from dining outdoors in the winter this year!

Where Can I Dine Outdoors During Maine Restaurant Week 2021?

So glad you asked! Here’s a list of all the places that you can dine outdoors during Maine Restaurant Week 2021:

  • The Boathouse, Kennebunkport
  • Boone’s, Portland 
  • Bruno’s Wood Fired Pizzeria, Bath
  • David’s, Portland 
  • Doolin’s Pub, Litchfield
  • Little Giant, Portland 
  • Local 188, Portland 
  • Maine Craft Distilling, Portland 
  • Natalie’s Restaurant, Camden 
  • Nonesuch River Brewing, Scarborough 
  • Nubb’s Lobster Shack, Cape Neddick
  • Pine Point Grill, Scarborough 
  • Sebago Brewing Company, Gorham 
  • Sebago Brewing Company, Kennebunk
  • Sebago Brewing Company, Portland
  • Sebago Brewing Company, Scarborough 
  • Sebago Brewing Tasting Room, Gorham
  • Stroudwater Distillery, Portland
  • TIQA, Portland 
  • Wilson County Barbecue, Portland

Now you may be wondering if there’s a list of only the places in Portland that offer outdoor dining. Of course!

Participating Restaurants in Portland Offering Outdoor Dining During MRW 2021:

  • Boone’s, Portland
  • David’s, Portland
  • Little Giant, Portland 
  • Local 188, Portland 
  • Maine Craft Distilling, Portland
  • Sebago Brewing Company, Portland
  • Stroudwater Distillery, Portland
  • TIQA, Portland 
  • Wilson County Barbecue, Portland

Whether you’re eating outdoors or inside, remember to follow all COVID guidelines and please, tip your servers. That should go without saying, but it never hurts to overemphasize it.

And if you want to see the full list of restaurants that are participating in Maine Restaurant Week 2021, you can just click here! On the Maine Restaurant Week website, you’ll find menus, information about if a restaurant is offering curbside takeout options, and more!