More than 4,000 restaurants were recognized by the trade publication his year, representing all 50 states and 87 countries and territories.
Ten Maine eateries from the Kennebunks to Bar Harbor have earned spots in Wine Spectator's 2026 Restaurant Awards, recognizing excellence in wine service around the world.
The awards program, launched in 1981, honor restaurant wine programs at three levels. This year, the trade publication honored 4,012 restaurants around the globe, including five Maine restaurants with its Best of Award of Excellence and five with the Award of Excellence.
More than 4,000 restaurants were recognized this year, representing all 50 states and 87 countries and territories.
Maine winners
Best of Award of Excellence
- Aragosta, Deer Isle
- Havana, Bar Harbor
- Natalie's Restaurant, Camden
- Sea Glass, Cape Elizabeth
- The White Barn Inn Restaurant, Kennebunk
Award of Excellence
- Earth at Hidden Pond, Kennebunkport
- Modern Bar, Bethel
- Ocean Restaurant, Kennebunkport
- Veranda at Balance Rock Inn, Bar Harbor
- Twelve, Portland
“The restaurant industry is rapidly transforming as diners become more selective about when, how and what they drink," Marvin R. Shanken, Wine Spectator's chairman and CEO, said in a press release.  "As wine drinkers grow more mindful, restaurants are adapting with creative wine programs."
No Maine restaurant received the Grand Award, the program's highest honor.
