Maine Lobster is the sweetest, most flavorful lobster on Earth and has been part of the coastal region for generations. It’s a culinary icon and economic powerhouse, employing thousands of Mainers and contributing more than $1 billion to the state’s economy each year. Some of the top rated spots to enjoy fresh lobster are Five Islands Lobster Co. in Georgetown, Quoddy Bay Lobster in Eastport, The Highroller Lobster Co. in Portland & Erica's Seafood in Harpswell.
Maine designated blueberry pie, made with wild Maine blueberries, as the official state dessert in 2011. Over 98% of the nation's low-bush blueberries are harvested in Maine and 60,000 acres of wild blueberries grow throughout the rugged areas of the state. Some of the most notable places to try it are at Mabel's Lobster Claw in Kennebunkport, Two Fat Cats Bakery in Portland & Dot's Bakery in Round Pound.
There is no dessert more beloved in Maine than a whoopie pie and the state's official treat. Labadie’s Bakery in Lewiston began selling them in 1925 and they still sell them today. Essentially, whoopie pies are comprised of two circular soft chocolate cookies with a fluffy white filling in-between, but many different flavor variants are now offered. Other well known makers of these delicious treats are Governor's Restaurant in Bangor & Two Fat Cats Bakery in Portland.
Moxie is a brand of carbonated beverage that was among the first mass-produced soft drinks in the United States. Its creator, Dr. Augustin Thompson, was born in Union, Maine and it was designated the official soft drink of Maine on May 10, 2005. It's a unique flavor that is definitely not for everyone, but it's New England roots made it a nostalgic favorite for some.
Whether grilled, steamed, fried, roasted over a campfire, boiled or broiled, Maine red hot dogs traditionally are served in New England split-top hot dog buns, usually buttered and lightly toasted. W.A. Bean & Sons, based out of Bangor, has been making the natural-casing treats since 1918 and is the only makers of the red hot dogs left in the state.
Needhams are a candy that combines coconut, sugar, chocolate and the classic Maine ingredient, the potato. Maine actually once harvested more potatoes than any other state in the country! This candy dates back to approximately 1872 and it was randomly named after George C. Needham, a popular preacher from Maine. Candymaker Mr. Seavey introduced this new treat after one of his cooks brought forth a chocolate-covered coconut cream with that secret local ingredient.