Maine Food: Lobster, Blueberries and Beyond!

When you think of Maine food, lobster is the first thing that comes to mind. But Maine cuisine goes way beyond this famous crustacean. Maine is the largest exporter of lobster, and there is nothing like eating a fresh lobster roll, but we are famous for other seafood as well. Clam or fish chowder (I mean chowdah) is a must try as well as our shrimp, scallops, and oysters.

But if you are not a seafood fan, no worries! We are also famous for our apples, blueberries, potatoes, and maple syrup!

Maine is one of the largest producers of wild blueberries. It’s one of the most healthy fruits you can eat, and was considered sacred by local Native Americans. Maine ranks 3rd in the nation for Maple syrup production. How does fresh wild blueberry pancakes with Maine maple syrup sound?

Maine has been growing potatoes in Aroostook County in northern Maine since the 1700s. The rich soil, long warm summer days and cool nights are ideal growing conditions. Maine was once the leading producer of potatoes in the country, and it is still a large part of the Maine economy.

Maine grows over 100 types of apples, with the Macintosh being the most commonly grown. The fall is apple season in Maine, and there is nothing like visiting a Pick Your Own Orchard and sampling apples you’ve plucked right off the tree! And we can’t forget apple cider! Fun fact: It takes 36 apples to make one gallon of cider!

Some other traditional foods of Maine we recommend you try include baked beans, Italian sandwiches, and the state treat, the Whoopie Pie! It’s not quite a cookie, not quite cake, it is simply a delicious treat. Although four states claim this wicked good dessert, it’s been a staple in Maine since 1925.

On our Maine tour in September, we go the extra mile to share with you several local Maine foods, including lobster, wild Maine blueberries, Macintosh apples, Maine maple syrup, Italian sandwiches, whoopie pies, fresh berry pies, homemade chowdah, and several local products like Pineland cheese, Borealis Bread, apple cider and more!