U.S.-Top-Ranked Italian Restaurant Opens in Maine This Week

Opening Day 2026 is Almost Here for This Must-Visit Italian Spot in Maine!

Taste of Home is all about bringing people together through good food—think cozy recipes, crowd-pleasing desserts, easy appetizers, and standout dishes from across the country.

So when they set out to name the best Italian restaurant in each state, you can imagine it wasn’t easy narrowing it down in Maine.

Their pick? Ports of Italy—with locations in Boothbay Harbor and Rockport.

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This is the kind of place that feels like a little escape: a classy coastal vibe, a welcoming porch, and a menu full of traditional Italian favorites. We’re talking house-made pasta, rich sauces, fresh seafood, and a solid wine list to match.

After a long Maine winter, the start of tourist season is always a big deal—and Ports of Italy is gearing up to open for the 2026 season, this Thursday, April 16th. Dinner service kicks off daily at 4:30 p.m., right on the dot.

And fair warning: this place fills up fast once the season starts. If you’re planning a visit, you’ll want to lock in a reservation early here.

The restaurant was founded by Sante Calandri, who brought years of experience from both Italy and New York City before bringing his vision to Maine. Working alongside Chef Fabrizio Ventricini, he’s built a menu rooted in authentic Italian cooking—simple, honest, and packed with flavor.

Sante actually started in the kitchen at just 13 years old in Trevi, Italy, working at the legendary Il Cochetto. By his early twenties, he was already cooking in Rome, sharpening his skills and building a real foundation in classic Italian cuisine.

At 24, he made the leap to the U.S., where he continued working in New York City restaurants before eventually turning his dream into reality.

In 2010, he purchased Ports of Italy in Boothbay Harbor, and the rest is delicious history. The restaurant has since expanded to Rockport and has become a go-to for both locals and summer visitors looking for a true taste of Italy in Maine.

If you’re already craving it, check out their menu and give their Instagram a scroll—warning: you’ll probably get hungry.

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