Maine Diner — Review by Food Network
Wells, United States — New England Seafood, American Comfort Food
Maine Diner in Wells is a legendary 1950s establishment now owned by brothers Miles and Dick Henry, who bought it as adults to preserve their childhood memories. The restaurant excels with its award-winning seafood chowder packed with whole lobster meat, clams, and scallops, and the lobster pie is a standout dish featuring fresh Maine lobster in a creamy, comforting preparation. Everything reflects genuine New England comfort food made from family recipes passed down through generations.
What was great: Award-winning seafood chowder with generous chunks of fresh lobster and scallops, lobster pie with rich creamy filling and crispy Ritz topping, fresh Maine lobster, homemade recipes from family cookbook
What could improve: Nothing mentioned
The Dishes
The seafood chowder is the crown jewel, featuring whole pieces of fresh Maine lobster, plump scallops, tender clams, and shrimp all swimming in a rich, creamy broth. The chowder has won awards for seven consecutive years at local competitions, and for good reason - the broth is made by cooking all the seafood together from the start, infusing it with deep, complex flavors. The tomalley, the lobster's liver, adds a distinctive rich essence that distinguishes this chowder from ordinary versions.
The lobster pie is equally impressive - a baked casserole of cooked Maine lobster meat topped with a tamale butter and fresh Ritz cracker topping, then baked until golden brown. The result is a dish that tastes like a deconstructed baked stuffed lobster, with tender, succulent lobster meat, creamy richness, and a satisfying crunch from the buttered crackers. The baked scallops and other seafood preparations showcase how well the kitchen handles premium Maine ingredients.
The Experience
Maine Diner exudes nostalgic New England charm as a preserved 1950s landmark. The atmosphere speaks to genuine hospitality and care - the brothers purchased the restaurant specifically to maintain its legacy after eating there as children. The staff moves efficiently, and there's a palpable sense of pride in what's being served. This isn't a trendy spot trying to be something it's not, but rather an authentic institution that respects both its history and its ingredients.
Value and Pricing
While specific prices aren't detailed in the transcript, the portions of fresh Maine seafood and the quality of preparation suggest good value for a destination restaurant in Maine.
Notable Moments
I am blown away by how much seafood is in here. That is so popular with no filler.
I see why you win. The only way you could lose is if the other guy had $50 bill croutons floating around.
90 percent of our recipes are from my mom and my grandma.
The Verdict
Maine Diner represents everything a regional institution should be - authentic, proud of its heritage, and committed to quality ingredients and traditional preparation methods. This restaurant is essential for anyone seeking genuine New England seafood comfort food. The lobster pie alone is worth the trip, but the award-winning chowder and other seafood dishes make this a must-visit destination for food lovers willing to seek out Wells, Maine.