Unique Culinary Experience on Deer Isle
I heard it from more than one person: this was unusually clear weather for Deer Isle, the craggy, granitic spit of land connected by a suspension bridge to mid-coast Maine’s Blue Hill Peninsula.
When my husband, two kids, and I pulled up to Aragosta at Goose Cove, the 21-acre property on Deer Isle known for its attendant restaurant run by chef-owner Devin Finigan, there was not a stitch of classic Maine fog in sight. Instead, we were greeted by clear sunny weather, spindly spruce trees, and wide granite boulders with a view of Barred Island, which guests can walk to at low tide.
Exceptional Dining at Aragosta
“Deer Isle is unique,” Finigan says. “It’s an island made up of fishermen, artists, and summer folks. The biggest draw, for me, to this island is the ocean and community. It doesn’t matter if you are a chef, fisherman, carpenter, or waitress; everyone who lives on the island has a sense of togetherness.”
As dusk fell, we entered the restaurant for a culinary experience that is truly exceptional: a multi-course meal in a location that feels remote yet connected. The dishes embody the sense of place — ocean, bramble, rock — evident in every course. We began with local lobster bathed in a smoked egg emulsion, served with a nori-dusted cracker. Then came a series of thoughtfully crafted dishes, notable for their sense of terroir and stunning presentation.
- Oysters presented on sea rocks with orange curry and carrot tendrils.
- Pink-shelled scallops paired with hints of lardo.
- A summer ode intermezzo featuring farm-fresh vegetables.
Notably, the lobster agnolotti topped with truffle is Finigan’s signature dish, but I particularly enjoyed a perfectly rare steak topped with chimichurri, served with heirloom tomatoes and charred corn. Every bite felt like a celebration of summer.
Local Farmers Markets
While Aragosta may be a standout dining experience, the Blue Hill Peninsula offers a plethora of culinary delights. Visitors can explore the Blue Hill Farmers Market, running every Saturday through October, where you can find fresh produce and brilliant heirloom tomatoes. The market also features rotating musicians and food trucks, enhancing the vibrant local atmosphere.
On our visit, we sampled offerings from Wild Blueberry Hill Farm & Catering, which served wild blueberry pies and beef potstickers. Furthermore, the Blue Hill Farmers Market is a treasure trove of local flavors.
Notable Restaurants in the Area
Stonington, nearby, offers delightful dining options like Fin & Fern, famous for its seasonal 12-inch pizzas. For those seeking ice cream, the Stonington Ice Cream Company also serves a noteworthy lobster roll.
Another gem, 44 North Coffee, features premium coffee and baked goods from Milkweed and Monarch Baking Company. This local café draws crowds; thus, it’s recommended to visit early for the best selection.
Visiting Blue Hill and Surrounding Areas
On our final night, we dined at the Barncastle Hotel + Restaurant, recently renovated and offering thoughtfully curated dishes. The menu features unique items like bone marrow with lardons of beef tongue and exquisite dumplings. Each dish reflects the local culture and culinary craft.
This slice of Maine boasts diverse dining experiences worth the journey, proving it’s not just the destination, but the flavors and community surrounding it that make your visit memorable. Whether you seek exquisite cuisine or local markets, the Blue Hill Peninsula has something for everyone.
