The 20 Best Restaurants in Saco

Martel's Ice Cream is a classic spot known for rich, creamy ice cream in a wide range of flavors. Housemade waffle cones add an extra touch, drawing praise from regulars and travelers alike. In addition to traditional scoops, the menu includes sherbet, frozen yogurt, sugar-free options, and a non-dairy coconut-based treat. A small attached eatery offers simple fare to round out the visit.

Golden Rooster offers hearty diner-style cooking with a mix of classic American comfort dishes and Greek-inspired options. Breakfast favorites such as corned beef hash, eggs, pancakes, and variations on eggs Benedict are prepared to order. Later in the day, guests find generously portioned homemade plates, including fried local seafood and satisfying meat dishes, served in a lively, unpretentious setting with attentive service and a full bar.

The Deli & Company offers creative gourmet sandwiches, fresh salads, and soups featuring in-house preparations like roasted meats and housemade drinks. Baked goods such as cookies, scones, and cupcakes add a comforting finish. The space feels polished yet welcoming, and the attentive staff help make it a popular choice for intimate gatherings and celebrations.

The Saco Scoop is a lively ice cream shop known for rich, premium ice cream and creative flavors. Sundaes with bittersweet hot fudge and real whipped cream are highlights, alongside treats like chocolate frappes and housemade marshmallows. The bright, colorful space and attentive, upbeat staff create an inviting spot for a casual sweet break.

Garside's Ice Cream is a longstanding spot known for its homemade ice cream, served since 1955. The ice cream is rich yet balanced, with flavors that highlight both classic and seasonal ingredients. Options range from chocolate and maple walnut to fruit flavors with real fruit pieces and more adventurous creations. A nostalgic stop for those seeking traditional ice cream made with care.

Pacifico Restaurant offers a refined take on Latin American cuisine with a distinct Peruvian influence. Fresh seafood, from ceviche to grilled octopus, features prominently alongside vibrant dishes such as chicken with rice and whole fish. Thoughtfully crafted cocktails, including pisco-based creations, and attentive, well-informed service contribute to a polished yet inviting dining experience.

Cia Cafe offers a welcoming café experience centered on thoughtfully prepared breakfast and lunch sandwiches, paired with carefully brewed coffee and an extensive drink selection. Fresh breads and produce, along with notable gluten-free options such as house-made English muffins, receive frequent praise. Local art and handmade crafts on display add a creative, neighborhood feel to the space.

Traditions Italian Restaurant serves hearty, homestyle Italian dishes such as parmigiana and seafood in a welcoming, cozy dining room. Guests note generous portions, fresh-tasting pasta, and indulgent cream-topped desserts. Attentive, personable service and well-made cocktails add to the lively, neighborhood feel.

Sea Salt Lobster offers a casual, welcoming setting favored by locals, with both indoor and covered outdoor seating. The kitchen focuses on well-prepared seafood and American comfort dishes, from tender calamari and chowders to seafood pasta and sandwiches. Portions are described as generous, and desserts such as blueberry pie provide a satisfying finish. Service is attentive yet unhurried, allowing guests to relax over a meal and drinks from the bar.

The Run of the Mill Public House & Brewery pairs house-brewed beers with seafood-focused pub fare in a restored mill with exposed beams and vintage details. Guests note well-prepared dishes such as sautéed mussels, seafood scampi, chowder, and haddock specialties. The bar team helps guests navigate the beer selection, and the space takes on festive decor during the holidays.

OTTO serves carefully crafted thin-crust pizzas with creative topping combinations and the option to build your own. The kitchen focuses on details, from balanced flavors to a crust that is crisp yet tender. Meatball sliders and other small bites complement the pizzas. Attentive, personable staff and a casual bar setting add to the relaxed dining experience.

Amato's offers classic Italian sandwiches, hearty hoagies, and pizzas, including options like Greek-style pies. The counter-service setup can be busy, yet orders are handled efficiently and served hot. A small dining area provides space for a quick meal, while shelves of drinks, snacks, desserts, and the brand’s popular pickles add to the casual, deli-style feel.

Auto Mile Diner serves classic, home-style American breakfast and lunch in a compact, welcoming space. Generous portions, from omelets and pancakes to roast beef hash, are a recurring highlight, along with house-baked pastries like cinnamon rolls. Regulars appreciate the relaxed, cheerful atmosphere, often enhanced by the chef’s singing from the open kitchen.