5 Must Stops in Portland, Maine
As a resident of Portland, Maine, one of the most exciting parts of the city are the food & drink scene. In this small city, there are more restraunts than you can fathom and to go along with an equal amount of breweries, distilleries and cocktail bars. Since moving to the area, here are some of my favorite spots I’ve come across.
Leeward
Leeward is a gem that has made its mark as a James Beard Award finalist. Prepare to be wowed by their pasta creations, which are so flavorful and expertly crafted that they don't need a pound of parmesan cheese to shine like your typical Italian restaraunt. Complementing the outstanding cuisine is a selection of natural wines that perfectly pair with the dishes.
When it comes to the menu at Leeward, there are a few standout items that you simply can't miss. The gnoccho frito is an appetizer staple, a mini charcuterie board with burrata, how could you say no? As you’re on the app menu, keep an eye out for broccolini or asparagus appetizers, they’re can’t miss menu items during their harvest seasons. The bolognese is a menu staple that is sure to satisfy those seeking a classic pasta experience. You can’t leave without trying the gelato—it's the perfect ending to the experience.
Reservations are a must at Leeward, but if you prefer a more spontaneous experience, the bar is always open on a first-come, first-served basis. Just keep in mind that walking in during the summer months may be a challenge, so it's best to utilize Resy alerts as tables often become available unexpectedly.
Website: https://leewardmaine.com
High Roller Lobster Co.
Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives meet the elegance of Caviar and Champagne Dreams, all while celebrating Portland's lobster love. You can't miss their iconic Lobster Rolls (duh!), but be sure to load them up with all the ailos for that extra kick. Jalapeño & Pineapple is the Michael Jordan and Scotty Pippin Championship duo. Are you sick of lobster on a bun? Then checkout the lobster taco which is a game-changer, blending coastal vibes with culinary cheese genius. There are also unique options like a lobby pop or a fried lobby pop, lobster tail on a stick. Oh, and if you happen to swing by during happy hour, don't even think about leaving without trying the Lobster Rangoons or the Lobster Crunch Wrap.
HRLC takes their drinks seriously too. Get ready for a tap list like no other, with beers you won't find anywhere else. Think Vitamin Sea, The Veil Brewing, all the Maine Craft favorites, and a whole bunch of other elusive breweries. This place is a haven for beer enthusiasts seeking unique and hard-to-find brews. Don’t want a beer? That’s ok, they also have a full bar menu, grab yourself a classic bloody or Bony’s Big ‘Ol Bloody which includes bacon, shrimp, oyster, and a lobster tail, a margarita, or a frozen drink.
HRLC operates on a first-come, first-served basis, so no reservations needed. Embrace the spontaneity and dive into this unforgettable food adventure. Locals and visitors alike, if you're craving lobster done right, High Roller Lobster Co. is the place to be.
Website: https://highrollerlobster.com
Blyth & Burrows
Let me take you on a journey to Blyth & Burrows, where history, creativity, and exceptional cocktails come together to create an unforgettable experience. This bar is more than just a place to grab a drink; it's a captivating establishment with a story rooted in the golden age of piracy. Named after the infamous sea captains Samuel Blyth and Charles Burrows, known for their smuggling exploits, Blyth & Burrows pays homage to Portland's seafaring past.
Stepping inside Blyth & Burrows feels like entering a time capsule. The ambiance is reminiscent of the 19th-century, with its dark wood, vintage decor, and even silent movies playing in the background. The cocktail program is where the magic truly happens. Their mixologists craft creative concoctions using in-house made bases (you can buy these bases and take them home with you to re-create the drink at home) and innovative techniques like clarified milk, resulting in drinks that are not only visually stunning but also incredibly flavorful. One of our current favorites is The Spice Trade, which includes Tequila & Tomato, think refreshing tomato soup, it sounds weird, but it’s fucking delicious or The Windmill which is in house carbonated and includes mezcal and pineapple. The cocktails are can’t miss, feel free to be at your most adventurous while exploring the drink menu. The food menu is mainly apps at Blyth & Burrows, but it’s complimentary to the drink menu.
One of the standout features of Blyth & Burrows is the ease of access. While reservations are not required, you can usually walk in with minimal wait, allowing you to indulge in the ambiance, sip on masterfully crafted cocktails, and immerse yourself in the fascinating story of Blyth & Burrows. So, if you're seeking a memorable night out in Portland, make sure to add Blyth & Burrows (Our favorite cocktail bar) to your list of must-visit spots.
Have some extra time in Portland, check out Blyth & Burrows’ sister restaurants that are worth exploring as well. Via Vecchia and Papi offer their own unique experiences, providing a diverse array of food options, cocktails, and unique locations that are setup to wow you.
Website: https://www.blythandburrows.com
Terilingua
Who says you can't find good barbecue in the Northeast? Terlingua, defies that notion with their menu,.
Terlingua impresses with their menu, boasting highlights such as brisket tacos (the sauce on these is AMAZING), meat boards that change all the time (best with groups), and elotes. Accompany your meal with their margaritas for the perfect pairin. The restaurant's expansive back patio, discreetly tucked away, makes it an ideal summer destination. Given its popularity, reservations are a must, but the convenience of its location across from Oxbow and the Duckfat Frite Shack allows for a delightful pre- or post-meal experience. It’s also in the East Bay Area and a walk away from a ton of breweries.
Terlingua goes the extra mile with a charming store at the front, offering sauces, beer, and meats for takeaway. Bring the flavors home and savor them at your convenience.
Website: http://www.terlingua.me
Apres
Apres stands out in the local east bay brewery scene with its delicious hard seltzers and ciders. This hidden gem offers a unique Saturday afternoon (or any day their open, but Saturday's are our favorite) experience with its modern 70's flair, blasting 90's and 2000's hits. Located amidst Portland's hottest brewery scene, it's the perfect starting point for a brewery-hopping adventure.
Apres' highlights include their refreshing hard seltzers like Tote Road (Mountain Berry) Seven Majors (Half & Half Inspired), Chile Nelson (Blood Orange, Lime, Chile) along with a variety of hard ciders that are made in house. Don’t sleep on the ciders. The brewery also caters to beer and wine enthusiasts, ensuring there's something for everyone. The welcoming atmosphere and vibrant ambiance make each visit memorable, with outdoor activities, live music, and Saturday markets adding to the excitement. Visiting on the weekend? Don’t miss the frozen seltzers on tap.
No reservations are required.
Website: https://apresmaine.com
