According to Matt Meltzer’s article, The Best Steakhouse in Every State, the bourbon-marinated steak tips at Timber Steakhouse in Portland are “the best meat you’ll find in Maine.” Do you agree?
I haven’t eaten there yet, but I’m skeptical because several other restaurants rank higher on Yelp for steak in Portland. At the moment, Timber Steakhouse has only 3.5 stars, whereas Back Bay Grill and Sur Lei have 4.5. Five others currently have 4-star reviews, including Congress Bar & Grill, Fore Street, The Front Room, The Great Lost Bear, and Five Fifty-Five.
Fore Street is one of my all-time favorite restaurants, and I’ve ordered the steak there more than once. It was mouthwatering. I find it hard to believe another restaurant could do better. I’d love to hear from someone who has eaten steak at both places.
But, does Portland have the corner on the market for the best steak in Maine? What if you don’t want to make the trek from Kennebunkport, Ogunquit or Wells? Where do you go?
Beyond Portland – Where else can you eat great steak in Maine?
The Steakhouse ranks #1 on Yelp for Wells for good reason. In addition almost every cut of beef imaginable, they offer several seafood and chicken dishes — all served in New England barn that was converted into a 3-story dining room. However, prepare for long wait times. They do not accept reservations nor offer call-ahead seating, and it’s a very popular restaurant among locals and vacationers.
When we spend time at our Wells beach cottage, we go to Stutseys Pub & Grille in Moody. Their steak tips are tender, tasty and always cooked perfectly. Plus, the portions are very generous and the service is excellent. I’ve gushed about this local favorite before in my Stutesy’s Pub & Grille restaurant review.
I’ve also eaten great steak at Bandaloop in Kennebunkport, which is another one of my all-time favorite restaurants. But let me be clear. Bandaloop is not a steakhouse. They’ve built a reputation for serving globally inspired dishes made with organic and locally sourced ingredients. Everything on Bandaloop’s menu is delicious, including the vegetarian options, and especially the soup.
And, while the short ribs at Village Tavern in West Kennebunk don’t technically count as steak, they deserve a meaty mention. Two phrases sum it up – OMG, YUM! Not only are the short ribs to-die-for, but the portion is HUGE. Expect to wait awhile for a table, but this restaurant IS worth it.
Where do you go for great steak in Maine? I’d love your input!
Wells Vacation Rental 