Maine Chick

Maine Chick sits on Cottage Street, a block inland from Bar Harbor's waterfront, serving crispy fried chicken sandwiches, tenders, and house-made fries in a casual counter-service setup. You order at the register, grab a number, and eat upstairs or on the balcony while locals and tourists alike dig in. It's the rare non-seafood option in a town where everything else costs a small fortune, and it doesn't skimp on quality.

• Chicken sandwiches consistently outperform expectations
• House-made fries in multiple flavor profiles
• Reasonable prices for Bar Harbor standards
• Fresh, quality meat you can taste the difference in

The Jerk chicken sandwich with maple brown sugar fries is a standout, as is the buffalo chicken with apple brown sugar fries. The Chicken Cordon Bleu (ham and cheese layered inside) has fans raving. If sandwiches aren't calling, the breaded chicken tenders with a biscuit hit the spot, and a grilled chicken option exists for anyone looking to lighten things up. Don't skip the fries.

Upstairs seating is spacious with plenty of tables and chairs. It's a busy, energetic place during peak hours, but the layout keeps it from feeling cramped. Balcony tables offer a quieter perch with street views.

This is for people who want to eat well without dropping thirty bucks on a plate. Families with kids, couples looking for a break from lobster rolls, solo diners happy to sit at the counter. Staff move fast and stay friendly even when the line wraps around the register.

Visitors consistently mention being shocked by how good the chicken is, especially in a seafood-obsessed town. Families praise the quality and price point, while couples on vacation call it a relief from lobster. One recent visitor noted the chicken was "juicy and perfectly portioned," and another said the fries were worth the trip alone.