5 Best ‘Hole-In-The-Wall’ Spots You Have To Try In Eastern Maine

I am not a fancy gal. I have been to exactly one high-end five-star "dining establishment," and the entire time I was there, it felt stuffy and uncomfortable, and I felt entirely out of place.

There is nothing I enjoy more than a good hole-in-the-wall restaurant where the food is good, the prices aren't outrageous, and there's character or a character around every corner.

These, in this lady's humble opinion, are 5 of the best "hole-in-the-wall" spots in Eastern Maine. And if you know about others I should try, share the details, won't ya?!

1.) Judy's Restaurant-Bangor

I have to admit that I have lived in Eastern Maine most of my life, and while I had always driven past Judy's Restaurant on State Street in Bangor with curiosity, I never had the occasion to go inside until recently. And let me tell you, I was not disappointed. I kicked myself for not going sooner! Touted as Bangor's only "Breakfast & Bar!", you can get a big ole' breakfast platter, full of eggs and meats and hashbrowns, and if you want to sip a beer to take a shot while you're eating, no one's gonna judge you at Judy's! It's not fancy, which is fine by me, and while it may look like the inside of your grandpa's den, the food is delicious and inexpensive, the service is straightforward and direct, and the coffee's hot, and they're right on those refills. Do yourself a favor and, if you haven't yet, go get breakfast at Judy's. It's a must. They're open from 6 AM till 1 PM daily.

2.) Appalachian Trail Cafe- Millinocket

This "hiker-themed" hole-in-the-wall is the real deal. The Appalachian Trail Cafe offers "Breakfast & Lunch in the shadow of Katahdin" and is one of the last stops on the Appalachian Trail! You definitely want to hit this place before a long day of hiking. Located at 210 Penobscot Ave in Millinocket, one of their signature breakfast offerings is a fluffernutter French toast sandwich. It's amazing! And their homemade donuts are "to die for". You can also pick up some cool Katahdin region souvenirs before you head out the door.
3.) Eagle's Nest Restaurant--Brewer

Probably one of the best-known hole-in-the-walls in Eastern Maine, the Eagle's Nest is small in size but big in both views and portions. Situated right along the river at 1016 North Main Street in Brewer, it's almost like sitting in a tree house when you go in, because it sits so high up. That's also why their view of the river and the wildlife is so incredible. They're famous for their overflowing Lobster roll, but their burgers are pretty incredible, too. Available for dine-in or take-out, Thursday through Saturday, 11 AM to 7 PM, and Sunday through Wednesday, 11 AM-6 PM. Both the parking and the seating are limited, so make sure to leave extra time, in case they're full.

4.)Sylvia's Cafe--Ellsworth

Sylvia's Cafe may not look too exciting sitting in its spot in the middle of a strip mall at 248 State Street in Ellsworth, but what's inside this place is totally exciting, especially if you have taste buds! The folks at Sylvia's have been serving up delicious breakfasts and lunches for over 30 years, so they have it down to a science. Whether its a cinnamon bun the size of your head, or a mountain of chicken and waffles you want, Sylvia's is well known for their tasty food and great service. And the fact that they're right on the main drag in and out of Ellsworth makes this a super convenient spot to pop in, get a bite to eat, and be on your way with the rest of the day ahead of you.

5.) 2 Feet Brewing-Bangor

Tucked away between a local sandwich shop and some business offices on Columbia Street is 2 Feet Brewing. You would likely walk right by it if you didn't know what you'd be missing. Inside this quaint little spot, full of personality and interesting things to play with or look at, is some of the best food, beer, and desserts Bangor has to offer. Everything is made right on site. You can sit at the bar and be part of the action or hang back at a table if you'd rather take in the sights and sounds. There's often live music and lively conversation, even an occasional book club meeting that takes place here. And while 2 Feet's actual footprint might not be that big, it's brimming with deliciousness and personality. Open weekdays from 11 AM to 8 PM, Fridays and Saturdays 11 AM to 9 PM, and Sundays from noon to 6 PM, this hole-in-the-wall is one of Bangor's best-kept secrets, in my humble opinion.

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So those are just 5 of my picks. I want to know all about yours!