Introduction
Portland, Maine is known for its stunning coastal scenery and vibrant art scene, but the city’s culinary offerings are just as impressive. From classic New England seafood dishes to innovative takes on international cuisine, there’s something to please every palate. Whether you’re a local looking for new dining options or a visitor in search of the best places to eat in Portland, this guide will help you explore the city’s delicious food scene.
A Guide to Portland’s Best Restaurants: Top Spots for Every Taste and Budget
When it comes to choosing a place to eat in Portland, the options can seem overwhelming. To make the process easier, we’ve compiled a list of the city’s top restaurants, organized by price range. No matter your taste or budget, there’s something to suit everyone.
High-End Restaurants
For an upscale experience, check out Fore Street, which has been recognized by the James Beard Foundation as one of the nation’s top restaurants. The menu changes regularly to reflect the freshest seasonal ingredients. Another must-try is Hugo’s, a Mediterranean-inspired eatery that serves up inventive dishes such as squid ink cavatelli and grilled octopus. For a truly unique experience, head to Eventide Oyster Co., where you can slurp down bivalves while taking in views of Casco Bay.
Mid-Range Restaurants
If you’re looking for a more casual atmosphere with great food, Portland has plenty of mid-range restaurants to choose from. Local 188 is a favorite among locals, serving up global-inspired dishes like kimchi fried rice and pork belly ramen. For a true taste of Maine, pop into Duckfat for some of the best fries in town (they’re cooked in duck fat!). Or, if you’re looking for a special date night spot, stop by Drifters Wife for modern small plates and natural wines.
Budget-Friendly Restaurants
Portland is full of affordable eateries that won’t break the bank. For breakfast, try Bintliff’s American Cafe—their omelets, pancakes, and French toast are all popular choices. For lunch, check out the sandwiches at Little Giant, or grab a bowl of pho at the Vietnamese eatery Pho Euro. And for dinner, don’t miss out on the tacos at El Rayo Taqueria, or the classic Italian fare at Micucci Grocery.
Exploring Portland’s Food Scene: A Local’s Perspective
If you want to know where the locals go, take a cue from Portland resident and food writer Liz Crain. “Portland is a great place to eat because there is so much variety,” she says. “You can find traditional New England seafood dishes, globally-inspired cuisine, and even some unexpected culinary experiences.” Here are some of her top recommendations for exploring the city’s food scene.
Must-Try Dishes
Crain recommends trying some of Portland’s signature dishes, such as the lobster roll at Eventide Oyster Co. and the fried clams at J’s Oyster Bar. She also suggests indulging in the city’s famous whoopie pies and blueberry pie from The Holy Donut. “These desserts are a real treat,” she says.
Unique Cuisine Experiences
Portland’s food scene is constantly evolving, with new restaurants popping up all the time. According to Crain, some of the most unique offerings include the Japanese-style ramen at Ramen Hajime and the creative tapas at Sur Lie. “These spots are great for trying something different,” she says.
Insider Tips
To get the most out of your visit to Portland, Crain suggests getting off the beaten path and exploring the city’s lesser-known restaurants. “There are lots of hidden gems scattered throughout the city,” she says. “Do some research and you’ll be sure to find some amazing places to eat.”
A Food Lover’s Guide to Portland: Where to Find the Best Eats
Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, Portland has something for every kind of food lover. Here’s a look at some of the city’s top spots for finding delicious eats.
Classic Favorites
If you’re in the mood for some classic comfort food, there are plenty of spots to satisfy your craving. At Flatbread Company, you can enjoy wood-fired pizzas made with locally sourced ingredients. Or, head to Standard Baking Co. for some of the best pastries in town. For some of the city’s best burgers, check out The Thirsty Pig or Otto’s.
Off-the-Beaten Path Restaurants
For an adventure off the beaten path, try some of Portland’s lesser-known restaurants. Check out Boda for authentic Thai cuisine or Masa for Mexican fare. Or, try the Middle Eastern specialties at Shaya’s Kitchen. You can also find some great street food options at the Portland Public Market and the Old Port Sea Grill.
Unexpected Culinary Experiences
If you’re looking for something a bit out of the ordinary, Portland has plenty of unique culinary experiences to offer. Enjoy a multi-course tasting menu at Central Provisions, or sample creative small plates at Union. Or, try the inventive dishes at Fore Street, where the menu changes daily.
A Tour of Portland’s Unique Eateries: From Seafood to Italian
Seafood lovers won’t want to miss out on Portland’s fresh catch. Try the lobster rolls at Eventide Oyster Co. or the mussels at J’s Oyster Bar. If you’re in the mood for Italian, check out Micucci Grocery for classic dishes like lasagna and eggplant parmesan. Or, indulge in some gourmet pizza at Flatbread Company.
Discovering Portland’s Hidden Gems: The Best Local Restaurants
To really get to know the city, it’s worth exploring some of Portland’s hidden gems. Stop by the cozy neighborhood joint Isa Bistro for some of the best French bistro fare in town. Or, try the creative dishes at Sur Lie, where the menu changes seasonally. For a truly unique experience, check out the tiny eatery Tandem Coffee & Bakery, where you can enjoy delicious coffee and pastries in an intimate setting.
A Day in Portland: Where to Eat and What to Try
To make the most of your visit to Portland, here’s a suggested itinerary for a day of eating around town. Start your morning with breakfast at Bintliff’s American Cafe, then grab some lunch at Little Giant or Pho Euro. In the afternoon, treat yourself to a snack from The Holy Donut or a cup of coffee from Tandem Coffee & Bakery. For dinner, try some of the city’s best seafood at Eventide Oyster Co. or some Italian classics at Micucci Grocery. Finally, end your evening with a sweet treat from Standard Baking Co.
Conclusion
From classic New England seafood to creative international cuisine, Portland, Maine is a food lover’s paradise. With so many options to choose from, it can be hard to decide where to eat. This guide provides an overview of the city’s top restaurants and offers suggestions for exploring Portland’s diverse culinary scene. So whether you’re a local looking for new dining options or a visitor seeking out the best places to eat in Portland, you’ll be sure to find something to please every palate.
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