Sterlingtown Public House in Union, Maine

Sterlingtown Public House is a casual spot in Rockland where the kitchen turns out oversized portions of tacos, fried rice, and wings alongside pub standards. You'll find regulars and travelers side by side, welcomed by servers who remember your name. The place has a small bar, outdoor seating, and a warm vibe that keeps people coming back.

• Boom Boom Mushrooms are a must-order appetizer.
• Burgers and wings are standout, generous portions.
• Servers are attentive, friendly, and willing to customize.
• Good beer and cider selection for a pub.

Start with the Boom Boom Mushrooms, a fixture on tables here. The burger is juicy and worth the hype. Tacos come in several styles (try the haddock or shrimp, though seasoning can vary). Wings are solid, especially if you've been before. The Shrimp Fried Rice is reliable, though the Chicken or Pork versions may have more depth.

Compact and warm, with a small bar anchoring the room. It's relaxed, not noisy, with the option to sit outside if you want air and light.

The kitchen leans into fusion comfort food. You'll get tacos (haddock, shrimp, bean and cheese), fried rice, wings, and burgers that folks drive out of their way for. Portions are genuinely big. Some dishes hit harder than others, and the kitchen seems to have off nights with certain items, but the Boom Boom Mushrooms and the burger are consistent crowd pleasers.

Guests praise the friendly, attentive service and the size of the plates. Repeat visitors make the annual pilgrimage. One regular notes the place feels 'warm and cozy' and worth the drive back. A few diners have hit misses with the Caesar salad and nachos, but most don't let that stop them from returning.