It’s no shock—cannabis enthusiasts and foodies are often one and the same.
As a daily cannabis user and someone who works in retail cannabis, I need food that checks all the boxes: quality, experience, and top-notch customer service. Whether you’re craving Indian, Chinese, Thai, Vietnamese, South American, Cuban, Italian—or just on the hunt for some of the finest fried seafood and lobster rolls the world has to offer—the greater Eliot / Berwick area delivers.
Here are a few of my personal go-to spots that never disappoint:
Lee Frank’s – South Berwick, ME
www.leefranks.com
Specializing in smash-burgers and hot dogs, this local joint is sure to satisfy your craving for something greasy and delicious. Don’t skip the house sauce, onion rings, and a milkshake to round out your meal. ($)
La Festa Pizzeria – Dover, NH
www.lafestabrickandbrew.com
Looking for the finest brick-oven pizza on the Seacoast? Look no further. Dine-in for the best experience. They serve pizza by the slice, and I highly recommend grabbing a slice of the “White Buffalo” and some garlic knots. ($)
Stoneface Brewing – Newington, NH
www.stonefacebrewing.com
NEIPA lovers, rejoice. This spot often features live music and trivia, plus they offer packs and cases to go. Their full menu is reasonably priced, but the standout item is the confit-then-deep-fried chicken wings (ask for them extra crispy). You won’t be disappointed. ($)
Nikki’s Banh Mi – Portsmouth, NH
www.nikkisbanhmi.com
Fresh, fast, and fairly priced. Outside of Vietnam, this is the best and freshest banh mi I’ve found. The Bulgogi Beef is excellent, but the classic Korean BBQ banh mi is the staple—and my personal favorite. ($)
Bennett’s Sandwich Shop – Portsmouth, NH
www.bennettssandwichshop.com
With four great locations, Bennett’s serves up sandwiches on freshly baked Italian bread. I always go for the house Italian with hots. Don’t sleep on their chicken tenders and fries either—they’re seriously good. ($)
Lil’s Cafe – Kittery, ME
www.lilscafe.com
Need a morning pick-me-up? Look no further. Their coffee is excellent, and their breakfast sandwiches come on house-made biscuits, bagels, or bread. The Maine Maple Crullers are hands down the best donuts in the world. Get there before 9 a.m. to grab a loaf of their homemade sourdough—it might just be the best sourdough you’ve ever had. (Lines can get long!) ($$)
The Black Birch – Kittery, ME
www.theblackbirch.com
Charming and cozy, this spot is worth the wait (they don’t take reservations or call-aheads). Their hand-crafted cocktails are stellar, and the local beer selection is well-curated. I recommend the fish and chips—but do yourself a favor and order every variety of deviled eggs on the menu. Yes, they’re that good—better than the ones your grandma used to bring to Easter. ($$+)
Bob’s Clam Hut – Kittery, ME
www.bobsclamhut.com
In my (totally biased) opinion, this is the best fried seafood spot in all of Maine and New Hampshire. As a local who grew up in the Seacoast area, I’ve tried them all—and Bob’s wins. The lobster roll is packed, and the fried clams with their house-made tartar sauce will have you ordering a second round to-go. Just be warned: the line in summer can get long. ($$+)
Green Leaves Chinese – York, ME
www.greenleavesrestaurant.com
This place is owned by some of the nicest people, and the food consistently hits the mark. Their mixed drinks? Potent. They’re quick and efficient with takeout, and there’s usually plenty of seating. Their sushi is great, but if you’re going out for Chinese and don’t order a poo-poo platter for two… are you even doing it right? ($$+)
Ristorante Massimo – Portsmouth, NH
www.ristorantemassimo.com
Need a spot to impress on date night? This elevated Italian restaurant has three unique dining rooms, but my top pick is the “fireplace table” downstairs—request it when you book! While it can get pricey, the quality is unmatched. Homemade pasta, rich flavors, and generous half-portion options if you’re not ready to commit to a full plate. Reservations are a must. ($$$)
Though this list just scratches the surface of all the incredible food the greater Eliot / Berwick area has to offer, it’s an excellent place to start. There are solid options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner across all price points. Portsmouth, Dover, Kittery, and York in particular are loaded with restaurants that represent flavors from around the world.
So next time you’re in Eliot or Berwick stocking up at your favorite JAR location, take the opportunity to treat yourself—and maybe someone else—to something delicious nearby.
Cheers to full bellies and stoned minds 
Written by Sam Gadomski
The post Favorite Local Eats Near JAR Eliot by Sam Gadomski appeared first on Jar.