Williams Realty Partners realtor Halley Smith doesn't just know the Kittery Maine real estate market, she also knows the restaurants in Kittery from an inside vantage point.
Halley's husband Jake is the executive chef and co-owner of one of the many outstanding dining choices in the area, The Black Birch, as well as Chapel & Main in nearby Dover, NH.
This dynamic husband-and-wife pair of foodies are both enthusiastic supporters of the Kittery dining scene and their fellow local restaurant owners.
Anticipating a happily busy spring and summer after the severe emotional and financial stress on restaurant owners from last year’s pandemic, we checked in with Halley and Jake for the inside scoop on some of their favorite restaurants in Kittery as they prepare for 2021.
Halley says to make a full day experiencing Kittery, try the abundance of Thrift/Consignment shops and funky little boutiques along Route 1A on the way into Kittery Foreside before or after lunch or dinner.
Another fun thing Halley does with the kids in the summer is go out to eat at "daddy restaurant” (The Black Birch) and then walk or bike across the Memorial Bridge to Portsmouth New Hampshire's beautiful Prescott Park, where there are often concerts and theater programs. The kids (and grown ups too) get a kick out of this adventure - eat in one state, catch a concert in another one later on!
As always, check ahead with each restaurant for a schedule of times/days.
KITTERY FORESIDE
The Black Birch, 2 Government Street, Kittery Maine
Start with the deviled eggs, then move on to the duck poutine and an ever-evolving menu that showcases local farms and seasonal varieties. With an art gallery next door, 24 beers on tap, a modern take on classic cocktails and a curated collection of records that are always spinning, The Black Birch is always a great dinner experience!
Festina Lente, 1 Government Street, Kittery Maine
In Italian, Festina Lente translates loosely to "make haste slowly". Chef/owner Sam Ostrow absolutely embodies Italian cuisine and culture. His rustic Italian menu merges simplicity with elegance in a very special way with an emphasis on making guests feel right at home (if your home includes superbly handcrafted Italian food, delicious Italian wines and skilled servers to wait on you, that is).
Tulsi, 20 Walker Street, Kittery Maine
Chef Rajesh Mandekar showcases his native northern Indian cuisine at Tulsi, which has rightfully earned a reputation for some of the finest Indian cuisine on the Seacoast. You'll find me in line at Tulsi's Sunday buffet just as soon as it's safe for them to begin again!
The Corner Pub, 4 Wallingford Square, Kittery Maine
Recently reimagined, yet still a classic. The Corner Pub offers great pub food, COLD beer, Frito Pie, pool tables and darts. Always a great time!
Lil's Cafe, 7 Wallingford S
quare #106, Kittery MaineLil’s Cafe is a staple among the restaurants in Kittery. Grab something from the bakery and a cup of coffee and sit out on the patio to enjoy the sunshine and breeze off the ocean. Halley takes her kids as a treat after going to the Rice public library just a few steps away; it always makes for a fun family activity. Bonus -- the Maine Squeeze is in located on the same patio with made to order smoothies and fresh juices! Quick, delicious, simple!
Anju Noodle Bar & The Wallingford Dram, 7 Wallingford Square, Kittery Maine
Anju is a delicious noodle bar! Big bowls of ramen, pork buns and all kinds of tasty treats, a great stop for lunch or late night.
The Wallingford Dram
Sister restaurant to Anju Noodle Bar, the Dram is a great place for a pre-dinner cocktail or night-cap. Fancy cocktails and a fun speakeasy atmosphere, combined with a menu of sandwiches and funked up hot dogs.
AJ's Wood Grill Pizza, 68 Wallingford Square, Kittery Maine
According to Halley, AJ's has some of the best buffalo wings around. They are committed to supporting sustainable agriculture, environmental responsibility, and their community as well. With yummy organic pizza dough, gluten-free pizza and toppings, cherry and applewood in the wood-fired grill, and homemade sauces and salad dressings, AJ's offerings are distinctive and tasty!
Rudders Public House, 70 Wallingford Square, Kittery Maine
Any time you're looking to catch a beer, a meal and game on TV when you're in Kittery Foreside, head to Rudders. Football Sundays are very popular during the season, and you can always bring man's best friend with you to Rudders. Woof!
Williams Realty Partners of Keller Williams Coastal and Lakes & Mountains is the #1 KW Team in Maine. We strive to provide an exceptional experience to all our clients, whether they are buying, selling, or investing in real estate. The team can be reached at 1-207-351-8188.