There are two undeniable truths — among myriad others — and they are that people love food and people love Maine.

Food offers nourishment and comfort, and it also serves as a gift, a thank-you or a welcome, and even as a way to say "sorry."

It is life and it is enjoyment, whether it's biting into your favorite greasy spoon's seven-napkin cheeseburger or savoring the complex flavors of an otherwise simple bowl of corn chowder at a five-star bistro.

Maine is where life should be lived if one is seeking peace and quiet, night skies filled with stars and opportunities to explore the woods, back roads and the ocean. It offers entrepreneurs the chance to live where they work and work where they live. It has mountains and shorelines, beaches and islands to explore, and rural farmland and blueberry barrens that both provide economic opportunities.

And then there is the ubiquitous Maine lobster, prized for its sweet meat and plenty of it. For locals and visitors alike, the experience of buying a half-dozen just-caught "bugs" right off a lobster boat serves to heighten the anticipation of what's to come.

So why does food play such an important part of the Maine experience?

For Midcoast chef Brian Hill, the answer is short and sweet: "Food just tastes better here."

And he said it's because of the terroir, or environment, in which it grows and is harvested.

"When I prepare dishes here that I have made in New York, Los Angeles or New Orleans, they taste different here on the seacoast – better!" said Hill.

Hill said it's also a combination of the ingredients and intimate venues that allow for more care in preparation and dining, but ultimately it really is "just the place."

"It's our little piece of sea, air and turf that make things taste better," said Hill.

Price and value are as important to diners living and visiting the Midcoast as quality. There are price points that every diner is looking for, and while full meals at some of the more expensive (and high-quality) restaurants may be out of range for some, there is always a way for a foodie to work a meal at an awesome bistro into their budget.

Happy hours used to be found only in the bars catering to those seeking pretzels and chips, but now happy hours have extended to some of the finer restaurants. That means not only are the beverages discounted, but small plates of everything from pizzas with beets and goat cheese to sautéed kale and pine nuts can be had for a song.

"Some people might be more into volume, over quality, and they find those places here," said Jane Lefleur, of Camden.

Lefleur said that one of the endearing reasons locals like to eat out is because they know the chefs, the waitstaff, the people making their martinis and even the dishwashers. And not because locals eat out a lot.

It's because we live in the same neighborhoods, shop at the same markets, carpool with same families whose young adults are working their first jobs and invite each other into our homes for holiday picnics and dinner parties.

"They are our friends, our neighbors and our kids," said Lefluer. "The food choices are incredible for foodies, and as an empty nester and a foodie, I appreciate the many choices we have. I save up my calories all day and all week to go out to dinner on a weekend."

Unique places, waterfronts, good food and historic architecture combine to offer comforting and exciting meal experiences for foodies, as well as those who just like to eat and/or try something different in a new place.

By all means, make a bucket list and try out the variety of restaurants up and down the Midcoast. And of course, bon appetit!

Editorial Director Holly S. Edwards can be reached at hollyedwards@penbaypilot.com or 706-6655.