For Here or To Go: Popular Counter Service Favorites in Southern Maine

“86!”
“BEHIND!” 
“All day!” 
“Hands!” 
“Order up!”

These are just a few of the calls echoing through kitchens and counters across the country, and right here in our own backyard as well.

Working in the food industry is not for the faint of heart. These industry professionals must adapt and adhere to food safety laws, rising operational costs, long hours, shortages in the supply chain, and more. They work tirelessly to prepare, cook, and serve delicious food that not only fills our bellies, but wields the power to bring people together. 

With the ability to order food quickly at the counter and the option of sitting in or carrying out, it’s not surprising that counter service has become a favorite among many foodies. But for those who answer the call, the payoff is more than just a plate of well-prepared food. It’s the joy of creating something memorable that brings people together, often across a counter, in a place that feels like home.

In the spirit of celebrating good food and local establishments, we’re shining a light on some of our community’s most beloved counter service eateries: Our list of top 5 local gems where the food is fast, the flavors are bold, and the service is anything but ordinary.

Ken’s Place — Scarborough 

Established in 1927 and serving fresh seafood 7 days a week, Ken’s Place (pictured above) was recently recognized by AAA Magazine as one of the 7 standout clam shacks in Maine. With a large menu, full-service bar, and raw bar, Ken’s Place is a local favorite. Several customer recommendations include fried clams, the Fisherman’s platter, fried haddock, lobster roll, and clam chowder. Don’t want to wait? Just call your order in and skip the line!

Deli & Company — Saco

Owners Mark and Michelle Claussen opened their deli business (formerly known as Saco Island Deli) over 20 years ago. In addition to serving up mouthwatering sandwiches to the local community, Deli & Co. offers catering services and a cozy event space for all your celebrations. Their fresh ingredients and “not-your-average-sandwich” combinations have kept customers coming back. The Curry Chicken Salad and The Mainah (served with their famous maple aioli) are two of their most beloved sandwiches. 

Saco Bay Variety — Saco

More than a convenient store, Saco Bay Variety welcomes you like a friendly neighbor. Owner Sonny Cimenian believes “When you treat people right, business will come,” and so it has. Saco Bay Variety has been serving delicious sandwiches, pizza, and dinner plates for years. A must try is their Philly Steak and Cheese.

Holy Donut — Brunswick, Portland, Scarborough, Arundel

One bite of a potato donut from one of their five locations will make all your worries disappear … at least for a little while, anyway. Founder Leigh Kellis’ goal while perfecting her donut recipe was to make not just any donut, but a magical donut made with wholesome, trusted ingredients. A few fan favorite flavors include Maple Bacon, Chocolate Sea Salt, and Blueberry Glazed. They even offer coast-to-coast shipping! 

Tostones on The Beach — Old Orchard Beach

“Barriga llena, corazón contento” (Full belly, happy heart). A full belly and a happy heart are exactly what you’ll get after a visit to Tostones on the Beach. Open from May through September, visiting Tostones on The Beach is like taking a short trip to South America without stepping foot on a plane. Try one of their Latin cones, such as the Pernil Cone, fried plantain in the form of a cone filled with rice, garlic aioli, slow cooked pulled pork, sweet plantains, pork rinds, chopped onions, tomatoes, corn, or their avocado & cilantro topped with cilantrillo avocado. Craving Latin cuisine in their off season? Try their year-round establishment, Tostones Café, located in Cape Elizabeth.
It is a true luxury to live in a community so rich in culinary diversity. A sincere thank you goes out to all our food industry workers and owners that work hard to keep these establishments up and running for all of us to enjoy. 

Now, the only question left is: Who’s ready to eat? (And will that be for here or to go?)