5 Best Gastropubs near Kennebunk

“GSB is the absolute best. Great food, great drinks, great staff, in a great environment. We've never had a bad meal or a bad time and we go A LOT. It's our go-to recommendation or meet-up spot anytime friends are in town.“

“Kennebunk is not exactly known for creative dishes. Its catering to an older crowd that doesn't do much seasoning and typically wants seafood in the summer. So...it might be hard to believe, but some of the most interesting, creative and delicious food in Kennebunk (and Kennebunkport for that matter) is to be had at the local bowling alley, Garden Bowl and its restaurant, Crotux.

Their menu on its surface is simple american- appetizers, sandwiches, fries, poutine, flatbreads, some mains, but on closer inspection all these dishes are a dial different. Pork belly and fried feta on the appetizer menu. Sides like hot honey kimchi, sandwiches like spanokopita melt (absolutely delicous), spiced chopped cheese with ground lamb, pulled pork with creative, ethnically influenced toppings. And a set of mains that would please many foodies with unique items like Hunters Veggie pie and miso glazed Hangar Stake.

I'm not a fan of flatbreads but there are a few things on the menu I return to: the burgers are the best in the area, the sherried mushroom risotto is ridiculously delicious, and the Hunters Pile is probably my favorite veggie dish in the world. I don't eat chorizo but my hubby loves the roasted delicata squash. We simply haven't had a bad meal here.

The only bummer is the fact that it is in a bowling alley and the area is completely open to it means it is really difficult to have a conversation. People talk loud to get over the noise, so that just exacerbates things. You get to hear conversations you never really wanted to.

But all in all, its some of my favorite food in the area that makes it worth dealing with the sound of strikes and spares.“

“I’ve been in Kennebunkport, before Batson was Baton ( when it was Tias Topside). Since Batson becoming the spot for locals and visitors alike, I’ve had nothing but great experiences. The music, energy, and most of all the people, are the reason me and my friends/ family come back. They play the best music, have friendly staff, and really know how to make you feel “at home”. I would say people could come here for a conversation and they would be satisfied. However, the food, the atmosphere, and drinks are more than that, they are peak Kennebunkport. Do yourself a favor, visit this excellent spot“

“We had a family date night and we were so impressed by everything- starting with the amazing attentive staff and followed by the incredible food. What a phenomenal place!“

“I visited this spot in Biddeford recently and really enjoyed the atmosphere; it has a very cool, industrial-chic vibe that makes it a great place to hang out with friends. The drink menu is impressive, with a good variety of house-made spirits and craft beers that feel high-quality and well-crafted. I also tried a few of their food items, and everything was tasty and well-presented. It can get pretty popular and a bit loud when it’s busy, but that just adds to the lively energy. It is definitely a solid destination if you are looking for a nice place to grab a drink and some good food in a great setting at Batson River Brewing & Distilling - Biddeford“