Aroostook County often conjures up images of serene lakes, rolling farmland, sparkling snowscapes and autumn color. And what better way to enjoy nature than with food and drink?
Dining out is a luxury most people are willing to pay for. And because The County’s economy depends on tourism in all seasons, business owners have searched for ways to entice more people north, from European food to a repurposed mall to Cold War history.
And it’s working. Now, people who visit actually want to spend time here, said restaurant owner Rob Ottaviano.
“We’re not seeing people make fun of the area anymore,” said Ottaviano, who owns the Parkhurst Siding Pub in Presque Isle. “There are a lot of tourism dollars out there, and whether by choice or by accident, Aroostook County has really risen to the demand of not just business travel but tourism. With what we have now, people want to come back.”
From refined dining to rustic picnics, The County offers mealtime with a view to suit all tastes. Here are just a few spots.
Parkhurst Siding Pub
Presque Isle
Ottaviano opened the pub at the Presque Isle Country Club last year. Nearby is Arndt’s Aroostook River Lodge and Campground, which brings people from all over the country to the eatery, he said. Many are astounded by the scenery.
People can sit on the deck or look out from the dining room and see not only the golf course, but farms and forests far beyond.
“The sun sets due west of us, so when you’re on the deck you can see it, and it’s beautiful,” Ottaviano said.
Ottaviano credited municipal leaders, business owners and the hospitality industry across The County for raising the bar with unique experiences. People don’t dread coming to the area anymore because there are so many options, he said.
Long Lake Sporting Club
Sinclair
For decades the Long Lake Sporting Club, situated on the shores of Long Lake, was an iconic destination for fine food and lakeside views. Like many restaurants, it too was forced to close during the pandemic, but it returned with a new mission.
Neal and Denise Martin own the establishment that’s been in Neal’s family for 55 years. His grandparents owned the facility for 20 years and his parents for another 20, Denise said. Now, instead of being a restaurant, the Sporting Club is a venue for weddings, reunions and other special events.
“We kind of switched it up,” Denise Martin said. “It’s definitely a nice view. Depending on where you sit, you kind of feel like you’re on a cruise ship because you’re so close to the water.”
People enjoy mingling out on the deck, and because they also have a marina, boats can dock there or come in for a party, she said.
This summer, they’ve taken on another new twist: hosting food trucks and offering drinks.
Hidden Spring Winery
East Hodgdon
The pandemic actually sparked an expansion for Jean and Richard Sloat, who own Hidden Spring Winery in East Hodgdon.
The couple, former potato farmers, had been creating wine from their own berries since 2014. But during COVID-29 restrictions, visitors sought ways to enjoy food and drink outside, so the idea of starting a restaurant was born.
People reserve tables and there is live entertainment during the summer when weather permits, according to the winery’s social media page. Crowds have filled the deck, but the overflow has enjoyed the happenings from the great room.
The Sloats are the fourth generation to farm on the property, and grow ingredients for their wines including honeyberries, which Jean Sloat described as like a cross between blueberries and raspberries. They do all the cooking for the restaurant and special events.
Outside on the deck, visitors can see Mars Hill, Canada and even Mt. Katahdin. It worked so well the winery has added an event center that seats 150 and also boasts views of the surrounding countryside.
Lime Rock Golf Club
Limestone
When he bought the former Loring Air Force Base golf course and Limestone Country Club last February, Joseph Allen aimed to make the venue welcoming to everyone. Part of that involved a new name — the Lime Rock Golf Club.
Allen also owns a Presque Isle-based construction company. He opened the nine-hole golf course in May, with plans to revamp the restaurant and add a grab-and-go section.
The club also wants to expand its event center, manager Alisa Brewer said in May.
With views of the forest-rimmed countryside, Lime Rock is situated near the former air base, which could prove to be advantageous as both commerce and tourism grow.
The bar and grill offers dine-in and takeout, live music, and last month started serving breakfast, according to its social media page.
Fish River Falls Campsite
Quimby
This last one isn’t a restaurant, but it is a place where you can eat and enjoy breathtaking views.
Many County residents and visitors like a bit of adventure, and the North Maine Woods has plenty of opportunities for wilderness views. Whether you boat, hike or drive, if you’re in the woods, “al fresco” dining is a must.
The Fish River Falls campsite area is about 20 miles west of Portage Lake, and a bit southwest of Winterville. Take Rocky Brook Road and turn onto Fish Lake Road. It’s a bit rough, but drivable, and well worth the trip.
From the picnic area, you’ll find a stunning view of Fish River Lake. On the other side of the clearing is a pathway formed by rocks and tree roots that overlooks the falls.
Whether you prefer to view nature from the comfort of a window view, perched on an airy deck or roughing it in the wilderness, you’ll find the perfect spot. So grab a bite, raise a glass and enjoy a slice of The County.
