Lompoc Cafe

Tucked away on a lane-like downtown street, this laid-back spot with a bocce court on the shaded patio out front is back in the groove after two sisters, both former employees, took over in 2022. Signature dishes include seared scallops with Korean barbeque sauce, the falafel plate, and the peanut sauce and pita bread (both house-made) appetizer; new are weekly cocktail specials that, say, mix elderflower, blueberry shrub, vodka, and mint to honor a supermoon. You can dine on the patio, in one of two clean-lined dining rooms, or at the L-shape bar.

Two attempts to try eating at the Lompoc Cafe ended unsuccessfully, the first time finding the place wide open but seemingly unstaffed and otherwise empty, the second time encountering unpleasant attitude from the bartender when trying to order a cup of chowder at the bar -- avoid.

While their menu is diminutive, Lompoc is still one of my top picks for breakfast (and lunch, for that matter). I love the cozy, friendly atmosphere; between their breakfast sandwich options and their signature Breakfast Banh Mi (pickled veggies, marinated carrots, aioli, harissa, and cilantro topped with a fried egg), I never leave hungry. Lompoc closes for the winter, but when you do visit, I recommend sticking around for lunch, too, along with a game of Bocce in their courtyard.

Our destination was the Lompoc Cafe, which is one of my top 10 personal favorite restaurants in all of New England. Everything about the place makes me happy, from the mellow vibe to the eclectic music to the outdoor dining and bocce court to the friendly staff to the organic, locally-grown products used. Plus, they serve Coal Porter ale, which is one of my favorite beers, and also Island Ginger, which is another outstanding ale.

This delightful little seasonal nook has a menu to match its size; small but perfectly suitable. In addition to their four specialty, made-to-order pizzas, Lompoc also offers breakfast and several sandwiches for lunch. If you’re looking for a pie to really tide you over until dinner, I suggest you choose the Miss Piggy’s Hot Girl Summer: Pork, bacon, cheddar, and mozzarella with red sauce and a few dashes of sriracha.

Lompoc Cafe– It’s not everyday you can play a game of bocce ball before enjoying your dinner on an outdoor patio. This cozy cafe located in downtown Bar Harbor on Rodick St. cooks everything from scratch and sources ingredients locally whenever possible. Sitting on the brick patio lined with dogwood and fruit trees, you would never know you’re in the middle of Bar Harbor.

A local bar patron at Atlantic recommended getting a beer at Lompoc Cafe, a quirky, vaguely Southeast Asian restaurant in Bar Harbor. The shady outdoor beer garden wasn’t yet open, so we sat at the small bar tucked off to the side of the dining room. They had a good local beer selection and a cool vibe and we liked it a lot, but the beer garden is probably where it’s at.

Back at the Harborside Hotel, I take a moment to journal my day beside the grand fireplace before I head to dinner at the Lompoc Cafe. The downtown Bar Harbor restaurant’s charming brick patio is shaded by a big old maple tree, illuminated by small twinkle lights, and includes a bocce court. It’s just warm enough out to dine al fresco.

But don’t get stuck waiting in line at the crowded downtown tourist joints. Just a short drive away from Bar Harbor and the Park Loop is a world of bakeries, restaurants, cafes, and lobster shacks that will let you taste the best of Maine without the crowds. Here are some of our favorite food discoveries from the quieter side.

The Lompoc Cafe has a well-worn, neighborhood-bar feel to it—waiters and other workers from around Bar Harbor congregate here after-hours. The cafe consists of three sections: the original bar, a tidy beer garden just outside (try your hand at bocce), and a small and open barnlike…

The Lompoc Cafe & Brewpub provide an eclectic menu along with a full bar featuring fine micro brewed ales, scotches and brandies from around the world. On weekends hear live jazz, blues, original rock, and local acts. (Located in Bar Harbor on 36 Rodick Street off West Street)

1 Main St, Southwest Harbor, Mount Desert Island, ME 04679-4603AmericanDinnerReservations, Seating, Parking Available, Wheelchair Accessible, Serves Alcohol, Full Bar, Table Service+1 207-244-7101http://www.facebook.com/pages/Rogue-Cafe/132633246806815

We both wanted to the mussels appetizer but I cannot have the cream sauce. Waitress offered to split the appetizer and make mine dairy free. So nice and it was a win!

Morning Glory Bakery 39 Rodick Street 44.38877,-68.20659 ☎ +1 207 288-3041 Open year round. Free wireless internet. Coffee, Pastries, Quiches, Sandwiches and Soups.

Inspired dining foodies will appreciate in a lovely courtyard setting. I was nervous about my picky eaters, but they do have a children’s menu upon request.

Explore the vibrant tastes and lively atmosphere of Lompoc Cafe in Bar Harbor, where local flavors meet fun activities like bocce ball and live music.