Portland, Maine, a gem in New England, has solidified its reputation as a nationally acclaimed culinary destination. For years, food innovators have flocked to this city, creating a vibrant and diverse food scene that extends far beyond the typical lobster rolls and oyster bars, though you can certainly find those done to perfection here. If you’re a food lover exploring Portland Maine Food, prepare to be delighted by the sheer variety. From pan-Asian noodles to authentic Belgian-style fries, smoky Southern barbecue, and cozy Japanese izakayas, Portland’s culinary landscape is rich and waiting to be explored. To guide you through this exciting gastronomic adventure, we’ve curated a list of our top restaurant picks in Portland, ensuring there’s something to satisfy both first-time visitors and seasoned foodies seeking unique and unforgettable dining experiences.
This guide was updated in May 2024 to ensure you have the most current and relevant information for your culinary explorations.
For a deeper dive into the local scene, explore our guide to the diverse dining and drinking options in Portland’s East Bayside neighborhood.
Bar Futo
Bar Futo, a standout newcomer since 2023, invites you into a world of binchotan-grilled delights. Skewers are the stars here, alongside a selection of meticulously crafted chilled and hot small plates. When it comes to skewers, plan to indulge in several, each offering three to four exquisite bites. Options range from classic grilled fish with a delicate ginger sauce to the inventive “Big Mac” skewer, featuring a signature house special sauce. A must-try hot plate is the crispy tofu, showcasing generous chunks of tofu drizzled with schmaltz for a salty punch, complemented by a soy egg with a perfectly jammy yolk, all immersed in a dashi broth so flavorful you’ll crave it year-round. Don’t miss the extensive sake menu, which spans from accessible canned selections to more adventurous, savory options like the remarkable Yamada Shoten Everlasting Roots Tokubetsu Junmai, known for its smoky and vegetal notes. For those serious about Portland Maine food and drink pairings, Bar Futo offers an unparalleled experience.
Bar Futo, 425 Fore St., Portland, Maine, 207-956-7373, eatfuto.com.
Central Provisions
Chef Chris Gould’s renowned Central Provisions operates on a simple yet brilliant menu structure: raw, cold, and hot small plates. This approach allows for an ever-changing selection that caters to diverse palates. Expect to find dishes like Spanish chopped salad with candied chorizo, delicate bluefin tuna crudo, and rich bone marrow toast with red onion jam. It’s the perfect destination for groups of adventurous eaters eager to sample a bit of everything Portland Maine food has to offer. For the truly indulgent, an extensive caviar selection and a decadent foie gras feast are also available. Be prepared for a wait, a testament to its popularity, but the lively downstairs bar provides a perfect spot to relax beforehand. Consider exploring its sister restaurant, Tipo, for exceptional pastas and pizzas to further appreciate the breadth of Portland Maine food.
414 Fore St., Portland, Maine, 207-805-1085, central-provisions.com.
Chaval
Chaval, helmed by the talented married duo Damian Sansonetti and two-time James Beard Award nominee Ilma Lopez, is a beloved brasserie nestled in Portland’s West End. Their menu celebrates Spanish and French seasonal cuisine, with daily variations ensuring a fresh and exciting dining experience. From classic patatas bravas to comforting coq au vin or perfectly roasted local monkfish, the options are diverse and consistently delightful. The expansive patio, complete with heat lamps and a fire pit, enhances the dining experience. Start your meal with an aperitif from their impressive vermouth selection for a truly immersive experience in Portland Maine food culture. In 2023, they introduced the younger sibling restaurant, the Ugly Duckling, a short walk away, offering a charming spot for coffee, pastries, and sandwiches, further enriching the Portland Maine food scene.
58 Pine St., Portland, Maine, 207-772-1110, chavalmaine.com.
Duckfat
Duckfat, a small sandwich shop located in the heart of the Old Port, has distinguished itself by focusing on the universally loved French fry. These aren’t just any fries; they are hand-cut, fried in duck fat, and served in a cone of grease-soaked parchment, creating a flavor profile that is both decadent and addictive. Served with an array of sauces, from truffle ketchup to horseradish mayo, or even better, a “flight” of all five, these fries alone are reason enough to visit. For a heartier option, indulge in their poutine, featuring rich duck gravy and locally sourced cheese curds. The rest of the menu is equally impressive, featuring paninis ranging from a Montreal-style Reuben to a Cubano with house-smoked pulled pork. Milkshakes, in flavors like vanilla bean and sea-salted duck fat caramel, add a sweet finish. While salads are available, embracing the indulgent spirit of Duckfat is key to fully appreciating this staple of Portland Maine food.
43 Middle St., Portland, Maine, 207-774-8080, duckfat.com.
Eventide Oyster Co.
Eventide Oyster Co., established in 2012 by co-owners Andrew Taylor, Arlin Smith, and Mike Wiley, has become a cornerstone of the Portland Maine food scene and beyond. While a smaller Boston branch opened in Fenway five years later, the original Portland location remains a must-visit for any food enthusiast exploring southern Maine. Eventide honors traditional American oyster bars with an impressive selection of 14 oyster varieties on the half-shell. However, the menu extends far beyond, offering elevated New England seafood with subtle pan-Asian influences. Highlights include ginger-scallion tuna crudo with tare and house-made kimchi that perfectly complements the richness of their celebrated brown butter lobster roll. Despite its popularity, Eventide keeps most seats open for walk-ins, welcoming all to experience this essential part of Portland Maine food.
86 Middle St., Portland, Maine, 207-774-8538, eventideoysterco.com.
Fore Street
Fore Street has been a culinary institution in Portland since 1996, and its ambiance reflects this legacy with dramatic high ceilings, exposed brick walls, and a central kitchen featuring a wood-burning oven, grill, and turnspit visible from almost every seat. The menu changes daily, emphasizing local produce, meats, and seafood. In summer, Maine wild blueberries might grace a salad, while winter could bring roasted rope-grown mussels. Reservations, available up to two months in advance, are highly recommended. Once seated, immerse yourself in the flavors that have kept Fore Street at the forefront of the Portland Maine food scene for decades. It’s a quintessential experience for anyone wanting to understand the history and evolution of Portland Maine food.
288 Fore St., Portland, Maine, 207-775-2717, forestreet.biz.
The Honey Paw
The Honey Paw, often seen as the more casual, vinyl-loving sibling to Eventide (sharing owners and proximity), has carved out its own distinct identity within the Portland Maine food scene. It distinguishes itself with flavor-packed noodle and grain dishes inspired by cuisines across Asia. From Sichuan mapo tofu to rice noodles with braised rare beef and Thai-style lamb khao soi in a rich coconut curry, the menu is an exciting exploration of global flavors through the lens of Portland Maine food. For dessert, the honey soft-serve, topped with real honeycomb, is a must-try. The communal table and bar seating, along with a small outdoor patio, create a lively, intimate atmosphere, best suited for smaller groups looking to enjoy the vibrant Portland Maine food culture.
78 Middle St., Portland, Maine, 207-774-8538, thehoneypaw.com.
Izakaya Minato
Izakaya Minato, opened in 2017 by husband-and-wife team Thomas Takashi Cooke and Elaine Alden, is a popular Japanese eatery on Washington Avenue. Their focused menu features Japanese specialties such as fresh sashimi, comforting udon noodles with duck breast, and savory okonomiyaki. Unique plates like mochi “bacon” and broiled oysters with miso custard add an innovative touch to the Portland Maine food scene. Consider the $42 per-person omakase for a multi-course, family-style meal curated by the chef, offering a comprehensive tasting experience. Enhance your meal with a shared carafe of sake, completing your exploration of Portland Maine food with authentic Japanese flavors.
54 Washington Ave., Portland, Maine, 207-613-9939, izakayaminato.com.
Lenora
Lenora, a recent addition to Portland Maine food since early 2023, offers all-day dining in a stylish space with Southwest-inspired decor in pink and earth tones. Focusing on Mexican street food, Lenora is connected to Boston’s acclaimed Lone Star Taco Bar. Start your day with a breakfast taco, especially with their house-made chorizo, known for its perfect spice blend, ideally paired with their revitalizing golden juice of carrot, turmeric, cantaloupe, and orange. Coffee options include the delightful cafe con cajeta. Beyond breakfast, standout menu items include the Yucatan fish and a vegetarian taco featuring avocado wrapped in Oaxaca cheese crust. All dishes are served on handmade tortillas, accompanied by a wide array of house-made salsas and sauces, making Lenora a vibrant spot in the Portland Maine food landscape.
2 Portland Sq., Portland, Maine, 207-536-0423, lenoramaine.com.
Magissa
Magissa, meaning “witch” in Greek, opened in East Bayside in May and quickly charmed the Portland Maine food scene. The dining room, adorned in blue and white Aegean hues, sets the stage for a menu of souvlaki, fresh salads, and modern Greek mezze. Small plate highlights include whipped ricotta with thyme honey, pistachio, walnuts, and rosemary. The Greek Caesar salad, featuring tahini, pita croutons, anchovies, and salty kefalotyri goat cheese, is a standout. Another must-try is the halloumi cheese with marinara and hot honey, spiced with smoked chili flakes from Greece. Magissa provides a bewitching taste of the Mediterranean within the diverse Portland Maine food offerings.
91 Anderson St., Portland, Maine, magissaportland.com.
Pai Men Miyake
Pai Men Miyake, the second Portland venture from Japan-born chef Masa Miyake (sibling to the upscale Miyake restaurant), stands out in its own right as a key player in Portland Maine food. Offering nearly a dozen varieties of ramen, including the signature paitan ramen with chicken and pork broth, alongside bao buns, donburi, and sushi, Pai Men delivers unfussy yet expertly prepared dishes. It’s a perfect spot for comforting and authentic fare after a day of exploring Portland, showcasing the global influences within Portland Maine food.
188 State St., Portland, Maine, 207-541-9204, miyakerestaurants.com/paimen.
Papi
Papi, a Puerto Rican restaurant that opened in early 2023, has swiftly become a beloved part of the Portland Maine food community. The menu is inspired by the childhood memories of founder and executive chef Ronnie Medlock and beverage director LyAnna Sanabria, who grew up in New England Puerto Rican families. Start with beef empanadas and tostones tossed in garlic sauce, then explore larger dishes like slow-roasted pork shoulder with rice and pigeon peas, and traditional beef stew. The flan, a blueberry version with brown sugar caramel, jam, and lemon whipped cream, is a creative twist on a classic. LyAnna Sanabria’s cocktails, like the bruja sabía with coconut gin and kiwi, are equally innovative and magical, enhancing the vibrant Portland Maine food and drink experience.
18 Exchange St., Portland, Maine, 207-808-8008, papiportland.com.
Rebel Munchies & Libations
Rebel Munchies & Libations, evolving from a cheesesteak food cart and popup, opened as a full bar and restaurant in March 2024, catering to a millennial-minded crowd within the Portland Maine food scene. The decor features Pokémon card-decorated tables, 90s Nickelodeon-inspired neon murals, and a living room area with a Super Nintendo. The food elevates childhood favorites with adult sophistication. Hand-breaded chicken nuggets tossed in buffalo sauce with buttermilk ranch and enormous cheesesteaks are highlights. Drinks, including creative beer-and-shot combos like the Ash & Pikachu, add to the playful and unique atmosphere, making it a standout in Portland Maine food and nightlife.
649 Congress St., Portland, Maine, 207-536-0109, rebel207.com.
Regards
Regards, opened in 2022, draws inspiration from Los Angeles’ Mexican and Asian street food, adding a West Coast flair to Portland Maine food. Chef Neil Zabriskie incorporates his Afro-Cubano and Polish heritage into the menu. Masa, used for tamales, tostadas, and tortillas, is a highlight, made from local flint corn soaked overnight and ground daily. Seasonal dishes may include wagyu beef tartare with black trumpet mole sauce and oysters with smoked trout roe and yuzu kosho mignonette granita. Regards offers a sophisticated and globally-inspired take on Portland Maine food.
547 Congress St., Portland, Maine, 207-747-5940, regardsmaine.com.
Terlingua
Terlingua, located in East Bayside, offers a welcome break from seafood with its combination of Texas barbecue and Latin American cuisine, a distinctive offering in Portland Maine food. Enjoy tacos with smoked brisket and pork carnitas on homemade tortillas, or a barbecue board featuring house-smoked meats and Mexica-inflected mac and cheese with poblano pepper. The heated outdoor deck and strong margaritas and mezcal enhance the experience. Terlingua also has an on-site market where you can purchase smoked meats, local products, and to-go margaritas, allowing you to take a piece of Portland Maine food home with you.
40 Washington Avenue, Portland, Maine, 207-956-7573, terlingua.me.
Twelve
Twelve, opened in summer 2022 in a beautifully renovated brick building, is a modern New England restaurant that is well worth the effort to secure a reservation. Its four-course prix-fixe menu showcases seasonal, local ingredients in dishes like dry-aged duck with leg confit and Atlantic cod with roasted onion and whey broth. The menu changes frequently, reflecting a commitment to highlighting the best of in-season produce and cementing its place as a top destination for contemporary Portland Maine food.
115 Thames St., Portland, Maine, 207-910-7400, twelvemaine.com.
Portland Maine food is a dynamic and diverse landscape, offering everything from innovative takes on classic dishes to globally-inspired cuisine. This list of 16 must-visit restaurants provides a starting point for exploring the rich culinary scene of Portland, ensuring every visitor finds something to savor and remember. Whether you’re craving fresh seafood, international flavors, or comforting classics, Portland’s restaurants are ready to deliver an unforgettable dining experience.
