Veg out magazine, In Maine, plant-based dining isn’t just a trend—it’s a culinary art. According to Kansas State University, the number of Americans identifying as vegetarian or vegan had doubled by 2022, and nearly 134,100 Mainers now embrace these dietary lifestyles. For those seeking a plant-powered adventure, Maine is a paradise: local farms overflow with fresh vegetables, fruits, beans, and grains, and restaurants throughout the state offer meals that celebrate the bounty of the land.
Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite or enjoying fine dining, Maine has vegetarian options that impress. From the tempeh burritos at El El Frijoles in Sargentville to the daily vegan special at Sea Glass Restaurant inside the Inn By the Sea in Cape Elizabeth, veg-friendly fare is everywhere. At Frinklepod Farm in Arundel, the farm store pairs fresh produce with a curated selection of plant-based foods made in Maine.
Across the state, health food stores and juice bars cater to plant-focused lifestyles. Favorites include Lois’ Natural Marketplace & Cafe in Scarborough, Good Tern Co-op & Café in Rockland, Rising Tide Community Market in Damariscotta, Thrive Juice Bar & Kitchen in Bar Harbor, and Nectar in Bridgton.
Below, we’ve highlighted top vegetarian and vegan-friendly restaurants across Maine, including several all-vegetarian spots marked with an asterisk (*).
Southern Maine, veg out magazine
Bandaloop
1200 Portland Rd, Arundel | 207-967-4994
Located in Kennebunkport’s lively Dock Square, Bandaloop offers veg-friendly fine dining in a stylish setting. Open Tuesday through Saturday, the menu features vegetarian and vegan options such as signature egg rolls and a hearty vegan chickpea stew. Maine-made, organic Heiwa Tofu is highlighted in several dishes, and fried tofu can be added to any plate. Families will appreciate the vegetarian kids’ menu and vegan dessert selections.
Green Elephant Vegetarian Bistro*
608 Congress Street, Portland | 207-347-3111
This elegant pan-Asian eatery in Portland is a favorite among the city’s plant-based crowd. Open for lunch and dinner, many dishes are gluten-free and can easily be made vegan. Standout options include fried Brussels sprouts, Thai ginger noodles, and panang curry with tempeh. Don’t skip dessert—try vegan chocolate mousse or fried bananas with coconut ice cream.
Public Market House
28 Monument Way, Portland | 207-284-1016
A bustling two-story market, Public Market House is packed with food stalls offering abundant vegetarian options. On a sunny day, enjoy a miso ginger salad from Daily Greens; on foggy days, warm up with vegan soups from Kamasouptra, like veggie chili or curried lentil. Other highlights include veggie rolls from Mr. Tuna and vegan pho from Pho Huong. Breakfast and lunch are widely available, with some stalls open into early dinner.
Central & Western Maine
A1 Diner
3 Bridge Street, Gardiner | 207-582-4804
Step back in time at this well-preserved Worcester Lunch Car diner, serving vegetarian dishes alongside classic diner fare. Popular choices include a soba noodle bowl with fermented black bean sauce, tofu, and steamed vegetables, or daily specials such as wild mushroom ragout on polenta or spicy corn pakoras with mango chutney. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner every day except Sunday night and Wednesday.
She Doesn’t Like Guthries
115 Middle Street, Lewiston | 207-376-3344
This casual Mexican-inspired eatery offers abundant vegetarian options for lunch and dinner on weekdays. Menu favorites include vegetable burritos such as the Grilledveg out magazine, Soultrane, or Rebel Rebel, as well as veggie bowls, tacos, nachos, and paninis. Tempeh and smoked tofu can be added to any dish. Catch live music on Thursday and Friday evenings for an extra lively experience.
From cozy cafes to elegant bistros, Maine is a haven for vegetarians and vegans alike. Whether you’re a lifelong plant-based eater or simply curious about trying more vegetables, the state’s diverse culinary scene ensures there’s something fresh, flavorful, and entirely satisfying around every corner.