The Docksider Restaurant, North East Harbor, Maine (photo, courtesy of Boston's Hidden Restaurants)   Maine lobster begins at the Docksider in Northeast Harbor, Maine by Eric H. The Docksider in Northeast Harbor ranks highly on my "fond" restaurant memories. Perhaps it was the 'welcome home" homey exterior with the hokey lobster sign that attracted us to the culinary seafood treasures that would be savored inside. Maybe it was the kind, old-fashioned, older waitresses with "Downeast" Maine accents going the extra mile to make a mom, dad and two brothers feel like family. It could have very well been the regional fare of Maine lobster and clam chowder that seemed to taste better here than any other Maine restaurant doing exactly the same thing. It might have been the traditional "bells and whistles" like nautical items hanging off the walls, and the plain, outdoor dining deck overlooking a stone parking lot. Of course, the ice cream stand on the side of this small shack just made the experience all that much better. Location can also lend a special feeling to a restaurant and the Docksider is no exception. Within view of the beautiful harbor on Northeast Harbor and within walking and short driving distance to one of the East Coast's most spectacular scenery in Acadia National Park, the Docksider certainly benefits from its prime location. The mix of ocean, mountains, fjords, wonderful seaside yet forested walking, biking and hiking trails -- and if you desire, the splendid commercial downtown at nearby Bar Harbor -- makes Acadia National Park a first choice destination when visiting Maine. The Docksider, however, stands on its own as a truly special restaurant. We've heard the management, waitstaff, menu and decor have all been updated, but the special feeling remains. It is, after all, a place you a family can go for that delicious lobster dinner and clam chowder (and of course, other seafood dishes, as well as steak and chicken), and then experience a vacation that will never leave your "fond" memories bank. The Docksider will always be a vital part of those "wonder years" then, now and in the future. The Docksider, 14 Sea St., Northeast Harbor, Maine, Tel., (207)276-3965

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