Looking for an upscale setting, refined and creative dishes, and excellent service? Head to 18 Central in Rockport.

Nestled in the charming village of Rockport, amidst stunning landscapes, is a haven for food connoisseurs—offering meticulously crafted and tantalizing dishes, 18 Central stands as a cornerstone in the midcoast culinary scene.

What we absolutely adored is the immediate presentation of a raw bar menu coupled with a pencil upon arrival. We settled on 6 locally-harvested Pemaquid Oysters and shrimp, accompanied by divine homemade sauces. And while we indulged in refreshing mocktail concoctions (lemon juice, simple syrup, grapefruit juice, and seltzer water) we’ve often overheard our friends sing the praises for the extensive wine and craft cocktail selections.

The garlic rosemary focaccia bread is exquisite — a gourmet masterpiece we'd argue. As a main, I delved into the Vegetarian Dish, a delightful medley described as the 'Chef's Whim'. It turned out to be a blend of sweet puree corn, zucchini, Chanterelle tomatoes, chimichurri, and almond sauces topped with a crispy green tomato. Meanwhile, my husband relished every bite of his cheeseburger and side of frites (so much so that it rendered him almost speechless until dessert discussions arose.).

Concluding our dinner, we indulged in Chocolate Pots de Creme and Lemon Poppyseed Cake, served with coffee. Every bite was better than the last.

18 Central offers an elegant ambiance, perfect for intimate date nights or profound conversations with loved ones. Reserve your table and experience the culinary delight that is 18 Central!

FAMOUS FOR:
Craft cocktails, incredible harbor views (if you sit outside), and impeccable vegetarian dish.

HOURS:
Thurs thru Mon: 5p-8:30p

ADDRESS:
18 Central St, Rockport, Maine

WEBSITE:
18central.com

Interior of a restaurant called 18 Central Oyster Bar & Grill with a chandelier and framed pictures on the wall.
A glass of lemonade with ice and a lemon wedge garnish on a white napkin on a wooden table at 18 Central restaurant.
A plated dish with breaded fish fillet on top of mixed vegetables including green beans, cherry tomatoes, zucchini, and mushrooms, garnished with microgreens, served on a rectangular white plate at 18 Central.
The owners of 18 Central, both smiling and posing together in a kitchen. The man is wearing a white chef's coat and a blue apron, while the woman is dressed in a blue shirt. They appear happy and friendly.
A platter of fresh oysters on ice with lemon wedges, cocktail sauce, and hot sauce.
Dessert plate with a piece of cake dusted with powdered sugar, a scoop of vanilla ice cream with a mint leaf, and fruit sauce dots, set on a dark table.