Maine has become increasingly more recognized for its culinary scene. Towns like Portland, Camden and Rockland have some of the best restaurants not only in New England, but all of America. While we certainly recommend you check them out, we also urge you to explore some of the lesser known towns in Vacationland. Some of the smaller ones have shops and restaurants run by locals who have lived in the state all their life. And we love that! We could write about lots of towns here, but for today we’re focusing on Norway, Maine!

Norway has a funny name (come on, it’s Maine not Europe) but it’s one of the best secrets we’ve got!

Ernest McGray, Jr. / Flickr

The small town can be found along Route 26 and Route 118, near Lake Pennesseewassee.

Norway Maine / Facebook

The town was first incorporated in 1797 and was originally home to many Revolutionary War soldiers.

Norway Maine / Facebook

Its downtown area carries a real local feel, while also offering lots to do in town and further out.

Norway Maine / Facebook

So, enjoy the area and then get to what’s really important - the food options!

Norway Maine / Facebook

Norway Brewing Company: 237 Main Street, Norway / (207) 739-2126

Norway Brewing Company / Facebook

Norway Brewing Company / Facebook This special newcomer offers up craft beer and homemade food that’s so good (get the fried chicken, purple cabbage, pickled dilly beans & mashed potatoes) you’ll make a stop in Norway JUST to try more things on the menu!

Cafe Nomad: 450 Main Street / (207) 739-2249

Dan L. / Yelp

Matthew K. / Yelp

Panda Cafe: 449 Main Street, Norway / (207) 739-9453

Nicole C. / Yelp

Nicole C. / Yelp We love this place because it’s easy and unfussy. Come in, order your favorite, sit down and enjoy a classic Chinese dish in the middle of Maine. What could be better?

Taste of Eden Vegan Cafe: 238 Main Street / (207) 739-6090

Sonya T. / Yelp

Sonya T. / Yelp If you’re vegan, this is the best (and maybe only) option, but don’t skip it if you’re not! The menu here is so good, we’ve known meat eaters who prefer to dine here than go anywhere else!

Fiber & Vine: 402 Main Street / (207) 739-2664

Fiber & Vine / Facebook

Kimberly H. / Yelp This might be the most unique food option in Norway. It’s perfect for those who love knitting AND drinking wine. Come stock up on yarn and a few bottles of wine to drink while you knit yourself a hat for the winter.

76 Pleasant Street Restaurant: 76 Pleasant Street, Norway / (207) 744-9040

76 Pleasant Street Restaurant / Yelp

Jamil S. / Yelp This restaurant isn’t located on Main Street, but the size of Norway means nothing is too far. The owners of this place get rave reviews, as does the ambiance!

And, if you’re not totally sold at least come for the gorgeous fall foliage!

Norway Maine / Facebook

To work up that appetite, take one of these gorgeous fall hikes in Maine!

Ernest McGray, Jr. / Flickr

Norway Maine / Facebook

Norway Brewing Company / Facebook

This special newcomer offers up craft beer and homemade food that’s so good (get the fried chicken, purple cabbage, pickled dilly beans & mashed potatoes) you’ll make a stop in Norway JUST to try more things on the menu!

Dan L. / Yelp

Matthew K. / Yelp

Nicole C. / Yelp

We love this place because it’s easy and unfussy. Come in, order your favorite, sit down and enjoy a classic Chinese dish in the middle of Maine. What could be better?

Sonya T. / Yelp

If you’re vegan, this is the best (and maybe only) option, but don’t skip it if you’re not! The menu here is so good, we’ve known meat eaters who prefer to dine here than go anywhere else!

Fiber & Vine / Facebook

Kimberly H. / Yelp

This might be the most unique food option in Norway. It’s perfect for those who love knitting AND drinking wine. Come stock up on yarn and a few bottles of wine to drink while you knit yourself a hat for the winter.

76 Pleasant Street Restaurant / Yelp

Jamil S. / Yelp

This restaurant isn’t located on Main Street, but the size of Norway means nothing is too far. The owners of this place get rave reviews, as does the ambiance!

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