Introduction
Portland, Maine is known for its stunning coastline, vibrant art and culture, and of course, its food. With a wide array of restaurants, cafes, and food trucks, Portland has something to offer every kind of foodie. From classic seafood dishes to innovative local eateries, you can find it all in Maine’s largest city.
Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or an upscale dining experience, Portland has something for everyone. In this article, we will explore the best restaurants in Portland, from fine dining to local favorites. We’ll also share our top 10 picks for unique places to eat in the city, and provide a guide to some of the best seafood spots in town.
A Guide to the Best Restaurants in Portland, Maine
When it comes to eating out in Portland, there are plenty of options. Here are some of the most popular restaurants in the city:
Fore Street
Fore Street is one of the most acclaimed restaurants in Portland. Located in the heart of the Old Port district, Fore Street offers an upscale dining experience with a focus on local ingredients. The menu features seasonal dishes made with fresh Maine seafood and produce. Fore Street is open for dinner and Sunday brunch.
Duckfat
Duckfat is a casual eatery serving up delicious Belgian-style fries and sandwiches. This popular spot is always bustling, but the wait is worth it. Duckfat is known for its signature dish—the duck fat fries—which are crispy and flavorful. Other menu items include gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches, salads, and milkshakes.
Eventide Oyster Co.
Eventide Oyster Co. is a must-visit for seafood lovers. This award-winning restaurant serves up freshly shucked oysters, lobster rolls, and other seafood specialties. Eventide also offers a raw bar, as well as small plates and sides. The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner.
Hugo’s
For an upscale dining experience, head to Hugo’s. This trendy eatery serves up modern American cuisine with a focus on local ingredients. The menu features dishes like roasted pork shoulder, seared scallops, and slow-cooked short ribs. Hugo’s also offers an extensive wine list and craft cocktails.
Exploring Portland’s Food Scene: Top 10 Places to Eat
Ready to get started exploring Portland’s culinary scene? Here are 10 of the best places to eat in the city:
The Holy Donut
The Holy Donut is a local favorite, offering delicious handmade donuts in a variety of flavors. The donuts are made with sweet potatoes, giving them a unique flavor and texture. Popular flavors include maple bacon, chocolate sea salt, and coconut lime.
Boda
If you’re looking for a cozy spot to grab a bite, head to Boda. This popular Thai eatery offers delicious noodle dishes, curries, and stir-fries. Boda also has an extensive beer and wine list. The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner.
Central Provisions
For a modern dining experience, check out Central Provisions. This chic eatery serves up creative small plates and craft cocktails. The menu features dishes like seared scallops, pork belly sliders, and ricotta gnudi. Central Provisions is open for dinner and late night.
Tandem Coffee
Start your day off right with a visit to Tandem Coffee. This popular coffee shop roasts its own beans, and offers espresso drinks, pour overs, cold brew, and more. Tandem also serves breakfast sandwiches, pastries, and other light bites.
Nosh Kitchen Bar
Nosh Kitchen Bar is a great spot for a casual meal. The menu features globally-inspired dishes, including tacos, ramen, burgers, and more. Nosh also has an extensive beverage list, with craft beers, wines, and cocktails.
Vinland
Vinland is a unique farm-to-table restaurant that focuses on local and sustainable ingredients. The menu features dishes like braised lamb shank, risotto, and mushroom ravioli. Vinland also has a full bar, with craft beers and wines.
Lazzari
For a taste of Italy, head to Lazzari. This cozy Italian trattoria serves up classic dishes like lasagna, chicken parmesan, and pizza. Lazzari also has an extensive wine list, featuring Italian wines from small family wineries.
Street & Co.
Street & Co. is a beloved seafood spot in the Old Port. The menu features classic dishes like fish and chips, clam chowder, and lobster rolls. Street & Co. also has an extensive wine list, with old world and new world selections.
Scales
Scales is a waterfront restaurant with a focus on fresh seafood. The menu features dishes like mussels and clams, fish tacos, and fish and chips. Scales also has an outdoor patio with views of Casco Bay.
Tiny’s
Tiny’s is a charming diner that serves up classic American fare. The menu includes breakfast favorites like pancakes and waffles, as well as burgers, sandwiches, and salads. Tiny’s also has an extensive selection of milkshakes.
Eating Your Way Through Portland: Local Favorites
In addition to the restaurants listed above, Portland has plenty of local favorites. Here are some of the best places to find authentic Maine cuisine:
Becky’s Diner
Becky’s Diner is a classic Maine eatery, serving up hearty breakfasts, sandwiches, and more. The menu includes favorites like lobster rolls, baked haddock, and mac and cheese. Becky’s also offers an extensive selection of homemade pies and cakes.
Flatbread Company
For a unique dining experience, head to Flatbread Company. This popular pizzeria serves up wood-fired pies with creative toppings. The menu includes classics like margherita and pepperoni, as well as unique creations like BBQ chicken and Thai curry. Flatbread Company also has an extensive beer list.
Slab Sicilian Street Food
Slab Sicilian Street Food is a food truck serving up Sicilian-style street food. The menu features classic dishes like arancini, panini, and calzones. Slab also offers an array of specialty desserts, like cannoli and gelato.
Standard Baking Co.
Standard Baking Co. is a beloved bakery in the Old Port. The shop offers an array of freshly baked breads, pastries, and desserts. Standard Baking Co. is known for its signature sourdough loaves, as well as its croissants, muffins, and cookies.
J’s Oyster
J’s Oyster is a long-standing seafood spot in the Old Port. The menu features classic dishes like fish and chips, as well as lobster rolls, crab cakes, and more. J’s also has an extensive selection of beers and wines.
A Taste of Maine: The Best Seafood Restaurants in Portland
No trip to Portland would be complete without trying some of the city’s famous seafood. Here are some of the best seafood restaurants in town:
The Lobster Shack at Two Lights
The Lobster Shack at Two Lights is a casual seafood spot with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. The menu features classic dishes like lobster rolls, fried clams, and steamed mussels. The Lobster Shack also has an outdoor patio, perfect for enjoying a summer evening.
Eventide Oyster Co.
As mentioned above, Eventide Oyster Co. is a must-visit for seafood lovers. This award-winning restaurant serves up freshly shucked oysters, lobster rolls, and other seafood specialties. Eventide also offers a raw bar, as well as small plates and sides.
Harraseeket Lunch & Lobster
Harraseeket Lunch & Lobster is another great spot for seafood. This casual restaurant serves up classic dishes like lobster rolls, clam chowder, and fried clams. Harraseeket also has an extensive beer and wine list.
DiMillo’s Floating Restaurant
For a truly unique dining experience, head to DiMillo’s Floating Restaurant. This iconic restaurant is located on a floating barge in the harbor. The menu features classic seafood dishes and steakhouse favorites. DiMillo’s also has an extensive wine list.
Portland’s Dining Scene: Where to Find the Best Local Eats
Portland is home to many unique eateries, offering everything from gourmet cuisine to classic comfort food. Here are some of the best spots to sample the city’s local eats:
Local Sprouts Cooperative
Local Sprouts Cooperative is a community-owned cafe that serves up locally-sourced, organic meals. The menu features dishes like vegan chili, quinoa salad, and avocado toast. Local Sprouts also offers a selection of smoothies and juices.
Vena’s Fizz House
Vena’s Fizz House is a popular spot for craft cocktails. The bar serves up classic cocktails as well as house specials, like the Raspberry Fizz and the Pomegranate Sour. Vena’s also offers an extensive selection of beer and wine.
Union Bagel
Union Bagel is a must-visit for bagel lovers. The shop offers hand-rolled bagels in a variety of flavors, as well as classic schmears and spreads. Union Bagel also serves up breakfast sandwiches, salads, and soups.
The Honey Paw
The Honey Paw is a hip Asian eatery with a focus on local ingredients. The menu features dishes like pork bao buns, ramen, and kimchi fried rice. The Honey Paw also has an extensive selection of sake and craft beers.
Conclusion
From fine dining to casual eateries, Portland has something for every kind of foodie. Whether you’re looking for seafood classics or innovative local eats, you can find it all in Maine’s largest city. No matter what type of cuisine you’re craving, you’ll find plenty of delicious options in Portland.
So what are you waiting for? Grab a friend and start exploring Portland’s amazing culinary scene.
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