Salty Spirits is the culmination of the shared vision and deep ties of
Michael and Deb McCluskey, the mother-son duo behind the bar.
The McCluskey's
are no strangers to the Kittery Foreside community—having purchased Lil’s Cafe
just four years ago from local entrepreneur Michael Landgarten. Their connection to
the area runs deep.


Michael McCluskey, in particular, has a long history with oysters. A a young boy of 14, he started working at Landgarten's Roberts Maine Grill, where he became known for shucking hundreds of oysters during their busy "all-you-can-eat" nights. Though Michael isn't fond of eating oysters h
imself, he has always loved how they bring people together,
creating social experiences that connect people to Maine’s agricultural roots
.
His passion for oysters, combined with Deb’s love for the
community
, makes Salty Spirits a natural extension of their dedication to
Kittery and its vibrant food scene.

OUR STORY

 MISSIOn

COastal history & community

At Salty Spirits, we celebrate the flavors of the Maine coast with fresh, locally-sourced oysters, seafood, and seasonal dishes, all served in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.

Whether you're a local or a traveler, we’re dedicated to providing an
unforgettable dining experience where great food, handcrafted cocktails, and
warm hospitality come together.

Salty Spirits isn't just a bar—it’s a celebration of Maine’s past, present,
and future
. We’re excited to offer an experience that’s as fresh as the oysters we serve
and as warm as the hospitality that defines our coastal town.

Salty Spirits is the culmination of the shared vision and deep ties of
Michael and Deb McCluskey, the mother-son duo behind the bar.
The McCluskey's
are no strangers to the Kittery Foreside community—having purchased Lil’s Cafe
just four years ago from local entrepreneur Michael Landgarten. Their connection to
the area runs deep.


Michael McCluskey, in particular, has a long history with oysters. A a young boy of 14, he started working at Landgarten's Roberts Maine Grill, where he became known for shucking hundreds of oysters during their busy "all-you-can-eat" nights. Though Michael isn't fond of eating oysters himself, he has always loved how they bring people together, creating social experiences that connect people to Maine’s
agricultural roots
. His passion for oysters, combined with Deb’s love for the
community
, makes Salty Spirits a natural extension of their dedication to
Kittery and its vibrant food scene.

OUR STORY

MISSIOn

COastal history & community

At Salty Spirits, we celebrate the flavors of the Maine coast with fresh, locally-sourced
oysters, seafood, and seasonal dishes, all served in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.

Whether you're a local or a traveler, we’re dedicated to providing an unforgettable dining experience where great food, handcrafted cocktails, and warm hospitality come together.

Salty Spirits isn't just a bar—it’s a celebration of Maine’s past, present, and future. We’re excited to offer an experience that’s as fresh as the oysters we serve and as warm as the hospitality that defines our coastal town.