Best Brunch in Kennebunkport, ME

Finding the best brunch in Kennebunkport, ME is a bit like searching for sea glass along its beaches—plenty of options, and each spot has its own charm. Whether you’re wandering Dock Square or chasing the scent of warm pastries down a sunny side street, brunch here feels less like a meal and more like a ritual. I still remember settling into a sunlit booth on my first Kennebunkport morning, coffee in hand, the promise of blueberry pancakes, and harbor views peeking through every window. There’s a sense that the townsfolk have turned having brunch into an elevated art, balancing classic comfort with clever local twists.

In this guide, you’ll get a look at well-kept secrets and favorites beloved by locals and visitors alike. You’ll discover not only which places deliver a perfect omelet or smoothie but also hidden gems with personality and stories behind each menu. From bustling cafes to mellow eateries tucked away from the crowds, every spot on this list has earned its place. The hardest part? Deciding where to start.

1. Salt & Honey

Salt & Honey lives up to its name—bright, balanced, and welcoming right at the edge of Kennebunkport’s scenic Dock Square. On my last visit, locals chatted over coffee while sunlight danced off rows of glossy pastries. You’ll feel instantly at home as the scent of fresh-baked bread meets the hum of the open kitchen.

What makes Salt & Honey stand out is its knack for classics done with a twist. The wild blueberry pancakes capture Maine’s spirit in every bite, while the house-made granola bowl gets a boost from creamy yogurt and orchard-fresh fruit. Want something savory? The smoked salmon toast is a favorite, striking harmony between simplicity and flavor.

The menu here balances comfort with creativity, every plate beautifully presented. Salt & Honey makes brunch in Kennebunkport not just a meal, but a memory.

2. Moon Rise Cafe

Moon Rise Cafe may be small, but it’s big on charm. Tucked just off Spring Street, this cozy spot feels like the kind of breakfast nook you wish you had at home—stacked with books, sunlight, and the reassuring scent of fresh-brewed coffee. My last brunch here lingered long after I left; the pace is laid back, the vibe inviting.

What makes Moon Rise Cafe unique? It’s the personal touch. You might catch the owner chatting with regulars, or see a barista sliding a plate of just-baked muffins across the counter. Everything feels homemade and honest.

Here, the fluffy omelets steal the show, packed with market vegetables and local cheese. The buttermilk pancakes are another standout, crisp at the edges and pillowy inside—a perfect snapshot of Kennebunkport comfort.

3. Bintliffs Ogunquit

Bintliffs Ogunquit pulls off classic brunch with an upscale twist, right in the heart of Ogunquit. Every time I settle into their cozy dining room, sunlight pouring onto crisp white tablecloths, it feels equal parts elegant and welcoming. There’s always a hum of laughter from families and friends catching up over generous plates.

What sets Bintliffs Ogunquit apart is their menu’s range. The potato pancakes come with just enough crunch and a dollop of tangy applesauce. The corned beef hash, slow-cooked and generously portioned, perfectly showcases the bistro’s attention to detail.

If you’re looking for local flavor, try the Maine blueberry pancakes. Bintliffs expertly balances tradition and creativity, turning brunch into an occasion worth remembering.

4. Christo’s Place

Christo’s Place is the kind of spot where regulars greet the servers by name and newcomers are warmly welcomed. After twenty-eight years, they’ve perfected the art of the simple, satisfying brunch. My last visit ended with a second cup of coffee just because I didn’t want to leave yet.

This family-run favorite stands out for its consistency and value. Portions are generous without going overboard, and everything arrives hot from the kitchen. Christo’s Place excels at reliability and honest comfort food.

Try the breakfast sandwich with farm-fresh eggs or their signature three-egg omelet, packed with local veggies. The home fries are crispy and never greasy—exactly what you want alongside a hearty brunch plate.

5. Cole Road Cafe

Cole Road Cafe feels like a well-kept secret tucked just outside the bustle of Kennebunkport. Here, the pace is easy and the regulars know exactly what’s good. The last time I popped in, I wound up swapping pastry tips with a pair of locals as the scent of fresh coffee filled the air.

This spot stands out for its simple, home-cooked fare and relaxed ambience. The staff have a knack for remembering just how you like your eggs, turning each visit into a friendly ritual.

Order the cinnamon swirl French toast—a favorite thanks to its pillowy softness and just-right sweetness. If savory is your style, their veggie-packed omelets highlight the café’s dedication to fresh, wholesome ingredients.

6. Tropical Smoothie Cafe

Tropical Smoothie Cafe gives brunch a breezy, fresh twist that feels like a mini vacation from typical New England fare. If you want to keep things light and energizing, this is where you’ll find the town’s best lineup of smoothie bowls and wholesome wraps. The vibe is bright, and every visit reminds me that food can be both quick and nourishing.

This spot stands out for its focus on natural flavors and good ingredients. Everything is made to order and packed with color and crunch.

Try the Island Green Smoothie for a tangy kick or opt for the Acai bowl stacked with fruit and granola. The hummus veggie wrap is also a standout—fresh, filling, and perfect for a brunch on the go.

7. Forbes Restaurant & Take-Out

Forbes Restaurant & Take-Out is a local legend with roots stretching back over a century. Every visit feels like tapping into a slice of Maine history—there’s a certain nostalgia in grabbing a booth and watching families file in from the beach. My own brunch memories here center around the irresistible smell of fresh muffins and coffee drifting across Mile Road.

Forbes stands out thanks to its mix of homey comfort and seaside tradition. The menu is as varied as it is reliable, making this spot a true crowd-pleaser for locals and visitors alike.

The Scrambleburger, their signature breakfast classic, is the standout. Lightly seasoned eggs scrambled with ground beef, it’s hearty without feeling heavy. For a sweet note, their homemade muffins offer a perfect taste of New England morning.

8. Tim Horton’s

Tim Horton’s is the go-to spot for a straightforward, comforting brunch, especially when time is tight but flavor still counts. I’ve grabbed many a coffee here before a morning by the shore, and there’s something reassuring about the familiar aroma of fresh-baked goods as soon as you walk through the door.

Tim Horton’s stands out for reliable consistency and speed. Whether you’re a local or a traveler, you can always count on a hot cup of coffee done right and warm pastries ready to go.

The classic egg and cheese breakfast sandwich is a brunch staple—quick, filling, and satisfying. And don’t overlook their signature Timbits; these bite-sized morsels make for a fun, easy snack to share or savor alone with your coffee.

9. Cove Cafe

Cove Cafe tucks itself just far enough from Ogunquit’s main drag to feel like a peaceful secret for brunch lovers. My last visit was all about slow coffee and admiring sunlight bouncing off vintage décor—this is the spot for easy mornings and conversation.

What really sets Cove Cafe apart is its cozy atmosphere and classic New England comfort. The dining room buzzes with regulars who know the menu by heart, and first-timers quickly catch on to the warm, attentive service.

The cinnamon-raisin French toast is a must-try: thick, rich, and kissed with just enough sweetness. Or go savory with a signature omelet packed with veggies and melting cheese, a true comfort on a Maine morning.

10. Palace Diner

Palace Diner is a legend in Biddeford, tucked inside an authentic dining car from the 1920s. Stepping in is like entering another era—counter stools and friendly banter included. My favorite mornings here are spent watching the cooks work their magic in the open kitchen, every dish built with obvious care.

This diner stands out for its blend of nostalgia and quality. The small space often means a wait, but it’s always worth it for what arrives on your plate.

Try the challah French toast, perfect with a drizzle of maple syrup. Or dig into a classic two-egg breakfast with home fries—simple food, done just right, and served with a bit of old-school Maine flair.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most popular brunch spots in Kennebunkport, ME?
Some favorites include Salt & Honey, Moon Rise Cafe, Cove Cafe, and Palace Diner. Each offers a unique vibe and standout dishes you’ll remember.

Do I need a reservation for brunch in Kennebunkport?
Reservations are a good idea at busy spots like Salt & Honey, but many cafés welcome walk-ins, especially earlier in the morning or on weekdays.

Are there vegan or vegetarian brunch options available?
Yes, you’ll find plant-based dishes at places like Tropical Smoothie Cafe, Salt & Honey, and several others that highlight local produce and creative veggie plates.

Is there outdoor seating for brunch in Kennebunkport?
Many spots offer patios and garden seating during warmer months, making it easy to catch ocean breezes while you dine.

What is the best time to go for brunch?
Weekends can get crowded after 10 a.m., so aim for early morning if you prefer a quieter experience and shorter wait times.

Are the brunch places in Kennebunkport family-friendly?
Most places are very family-friendly, offering kids’ menus, high chairs, and a welcoming setting for groups of all sizes.