1TWELVE — The Current Crown Jewel
Modern New England, seasonal, locally-sourced. Rating 4.7/5 (280 reviews). NY Times "50 Best Restaurants in America"
🚘 Driver Tip: Popular pre-cruise dinner destination. Peak times 6–9 PM Thu–Sat. Allow 15 min for downtown parking. Passengers often request for special occasions.
2FORE STREET — The Restaurant That Put Portland on the Map
Wood-fired New England, farm-to-table. Opened June 1996 — one of the first to focus exclusively on local seasonal ingredients. Changed Portland's dining scene. Consistently Top 5 TripAdvisor Portland
🚘 Driver Tip: Highest cruise ship passenger traffic of any Portland restaurant. Busiest 6–9 PM. Passengers will wait 30–60 min without reservations. Heart of Old Port.
3EVENTIDE OYSTER CO. — Revolutionized the Lobster Roll
Oyster bar, New England seafood with Asian influences. Opened 2012. Owners: Andrew Taylor, Arlin Smith, Mike Wiley. Invented the lobster roll on a steamed Chinese bao bun with brown butter vinaigrette — inspired countless variations nationwide. James Beard AwardWalk-in only
🚘 Driver Tip: Peak waits 45–90 min. Walk-in only = passengers can't plan exact pickup times. Central Old Port.
4SCALES — Elegant Seafood on the Waterfront
Upscale New England seafood. Consistently ranked. Near Casco Bay ferry terminal. Popular for special occasions — anniversaries, birthdays. Easier parking than downtown Old Port.
5CENTRAL PROVISIONS — Small Plates, Big Flavors
Small plates, internationally inspired. Opened 2014. Chef Christopher and Paige Gould. Historic red brick building in Old Port. Open kitchen. Consistently top-ranked.
6LEEWARD — Italian Soul in the East End
Italian-inspired, seasonal. Opened March 2020 — days before COVID lockdown. Reopened months later to immediate acclaim. "I would order nearly every dish." James Beard Nomination — Best New RestaurantNY Times "America's Best" 2022
7OUN LIDO'S — The Newest Star (2024)
Pan-Asian. Chefs Bounahcree Kim & Vien Dobui. Reservations via Resy (open noon daily, 30 days out). Must-try: Broiled Maine oysters with chili butter · Chicory salad · Cabbage salad. SUNDAY & MONDAY ONLY: smash burgers — locals rave. 🆕 Esquire "Best New Restaurants in America" 2024 — ONLY Maine restaurant on list
8IZAKAYA MINATO — Japanese Izakaya, East End
"Once you've spent the afternoon drinking beer at a few breweries, head to Izakaya Minato to recharge." Sashimi, fried chicken, udon, sake, robata grill. Star dish: Uni spoon (sea urchin + raw quail egg) — "might be the best single bite in town." East End = easier parking.
9DUCKFAT — Belgian Fries & Paninis
Belgian fries with dipping sauces · Panini sandwiches · Milkshakes · Poutine · Soups · Maine root beer floats. Counter service. Quick (15–20 min total). What to order: Fries with truffle ketchup or Belgian mayo · Any panini · Milkshake (10–15 min, worth it).
10Other Top Fine Dining Options
- Miyake — Upscale sushi, James Beard nominated
- Isa Bistro — French bistro
- Tipo — Upscale Italian
- Caiola's — Upscale American comfort
- Back Bay Grill — Long-running fine dining
- Grace — Farm-to-table fine dining, stunning church space
- The Grill Room — Hotel fine dining / steakhouse
- Street & Co. — Italian-influenced seafood, Old Port
BECKY'S DINER — Classic Waterfront Diner Since 1991
Portland institution. Classic American diner + Maine seafood. Working waterfront atmosphere. Eggs, seafood plates, burgers, sandwiches, homemade pies. Cash friendly.
🚘 Popular breakfast spot (lines in summer). Working waterfront location.
HOT SUPPA — Congress Street Comfort Food
Famous "Double Double" burger — homage to In-N-Out. Maine-raised beef (brisket, chuck, rib blend). Also serves excellent breakfast and brunch.
THE GREAT LOST BEAR — 70+ Beers on Tap
Legendary Portland institution. 70+ beers on tap. Solid pub burgers. "Tremendous nachos, burgers, and other pub items." Good for groups.
LUKE'S LOBSTER — Portland Pier
National chain with Maine roots. Sustainable, direct-from-boat. Maine-style lobster rolls, crab rolls, shrimp rolls, lobster bisque, chowder. Consistent quality every time. Jetport location too.
🚘 Portland Jetport location: passengers picking up lobster to fly home.
More Casual Favorites
- Cong Tu Bot — Vietnamese. East End. Creative, delicious.
- LB Kitchen — Italian-American. Congress St area. Brunch popular.
- Local 188 — Mediterranean-influenced American. Longfellow Square.
- Emilitsa — Greek taverna. Portland institution.
- Ribollita — Tuscan-inspired Italian.
- Tempo Dulu — Indonesian. Unique in Portland.
- Gritty McDuff's — Portland's first brewpub 1988. Old Port. Pub food.
- Federal Spice — Southern comfort. Congress St.
- DeMillo's — Floating restaurant on the waterfront. American/seafood.
- The Porthole Restaurant & Pub — Portland Pier. Neighborhood pub + lobster.
- Otto Pizza — Multiple Portland locations. Creative rotating pizzas. Slices $4–5.
- Arabica — 2 Free Street. Mediterranean wraps & plates. Quick, $8–12.
By Neighborhood
Old PortFore Street · Eventide · Scales · Central Provisions · Duckfat · J's Oyster · Luke's Lobster · Gritty McDuff's · DeMillo's · Novare Res (Belgian beer bar) · Bull Feeney's · Ri Ra Irish Pub
East End / Washington AveLeeward · Oun Lido's · Izakaya Minato · Terlingua · Cong Tu Bot · Most breweries (Rising Tide, Austin St, Belleflower, Oxbow, Goodfire, Lone Pine)
Congress St / Arts DistrictHot Suppa · Nosh Kitchen Bar · Federal Spice · Various cafes · Starbucks (468 Congress)
Waterfront / Commercial StBecky's Diner · Portland Lobster Co. · Harbor Fish Market · Porthole Restaurant · Working docks
South Portland / SuburbsMaine Mall restaurants · Multiple chains · Hotels · Airport area
Windham / Gray / WestbrookEP's Pizza · Café Sebago (lakeside) · Thai Taste · Hashi (sushi) · Blazes Burgers
Maine-style: Cold lobster meat, light mayo, chives, toasted hot dog bun | Connecticut-style: Warm lobster, melted butter, toasted bun. Key: fresh lobster, let it shine.
1EVENTIDE OYSTER CO. — The Iconic Bao Bun Roll
Served on a steamed Chinese bao bun with brown butter vinaigrette — this innovation put Portland on the national map. Small but intensely flavorful; order at least two. Expect 45–90 min waits at peak. James Beard Award
2BITE INTO MAINE — The Scenic Choice
Started as food truck, now two permanent locations. Rolls $29.50–$37.50 (4.5 or 6 oz). Choose Maine or Connecticut style. Stunning lighthouse setting at Fort Williams. "One of the best lobster rolls in Maine."
🚘 Fort Williams = touristy but spectacular. Allagash = brewery crowd. Long lines in summer.
3LUKE'S LOBSTER — The National Standard
Sustainable, direct-from-boat. 4 oz or 6 oz. Consistent quality every time. Also: crab roll, shrimp roll, bisque, chowder, whoopie pies.
4HIGHROLLER LOBSTER CO. — The Creative One
Customize your roll. Creative sauces: wasabi, curry, and more. Lobster pops (sushi-style). Lobster roll flights — try multiple styles. Raw bar. Casual, fun, popular with younger crowd.
5J'S OYSTER — Old Portland Authenticity
Cozy waterfront oyster bar. Authentic Maine — not fancy, just fresh seafood on the docks. Lobster rolls, oysters, steamers, chowder, fried seafood. Service can be rough around edges — part of the old-school Portland charm.
6RED'S EATS — Wiscasset (Legendary)
Famous for massively overstuffed rolls — full pound of lobster meat. "Gets lots of bad press, but year after year we go back and always think it is the best." Long lines (30–60 min in summer). Simple, classic.
🚘 45+ min north of Portland. Worth planning if combining with Midcoast trip.
⭐ Best Oyster Deals: $1.95/oyster ALL DAY: Eventide + The Shop | $1 oysters WEDNESDAY 4–9 PM: Blyth & Burrows | $1 oysters LUNCH: Bar Futo (11 AM–3 PM) | Happy hours: Maine Oyster Co., J's Oyster, Blyth & Burrows after 4 PM
Maine Oyster Regions: Damariscotta River — "The Oyster Capital of Maine" (1.5 hrs north). Strong brine, clean bright taste, world-class. Pemaquid Oyster Festival: Last Sunday of September — $2.50 oysters all day, 8 farms, live music. GA $15, VIP $100.
1EVENTIDE OYSTER CO. — 14 Varieties, $1.95/oyster all day
14 oyster varieties on the half-shell — "From Maine" and "From Away." Korean-style accompaniments: cucumber-ginger ice, kimchi ice. "Revival of the great American oyster bar." James Beard Award
2SCALES — Waterfront Oysters
Oysters from Duxbury MA farm. Watch experienced shuckers. Seasonal patio. "Many people's favorite Portland restaurant." Upscale, special occasion.
3J'S OYSTER — Portland Institution 1977
Cozy waterfront bar. Great happy hour. Old Portland vibe — authentic, no frills. Founded 1977.
4BLYTH & BURROWS — ⭐ $1 Oysters Every Wednesday
Craft cocktails + oysters. Historic decor. WEDNESDAY 4–9 PM: $1 oysters (Oyster Social). Happy hour 4 PM+. Best oyster deal in Portland.
BAR FUTO — $1 Oyster Lunch
$1 Maine oysters during lunch only. House-made wasabi ice. Best weekday lunch deal in Portland.
LADY SHUCKERS — Mobile Raw Bar
Mobile oyster bar. Appears at events, breweries. Check social media for locations.
1TERLINGUA — Texas BBQ Meets Mexico
Texas-style BBQ with Mexican influences. Known for margaritas and mezcal. East End location = easier parking than Old Port. Tacos, nachos, enchiladas, fajitas, Texas BBQ, full bar. Lively atmosphere. Eater "12 Essential BBQ in Maine"Condé Nast "15 Best Portland"
2WILSON COUNTY BARBECUE — North Carolina Authenticity
Authentic NC whole hog BBQ. Wood-cooked traditions. Pulled pork focus. Consistently top-rated.
3CHIMICHURRI — Texas Brisket + Wood-Fired Pizza
Texas-style brisket focus. House-made pastrami. Wood-fired pizza (also excellent). "Cavernous but impeccably decorated — certainly the best looking BBQ restaurant in Portland." Best for groups who can't decide between BBQ and pizza.
More Portland BBQ
- Moe's Original Bar B Que — Alabama-style chain. Multiple Maine locations (Westbrook, others).
- Smoked Portland — Local smokehouse. 4.2/5 (172 reviews). "Portland is fortunate to have a BBQ restaurant of this caliber."
- Grillin Brazilian — Brazilian-style BBQ.
- Back Cove BBQ & Pizzeria — Neighborhood spot. BBQ + pizza combo.
- The Thirsty Pig — Pub BBQ, Portland.
- Nose to Tail — Whole animal butchery philosophy. Various cuts.
- Blazes Burgers (Westbrook) — "Best burger in all of Maine?" Also serves BBQ.
- Maine Street BBQ & Brew (Brunswick) — Local favorite. BBQ + craft beer.
1VENDREDI'S (at Oxbow Brewing) — The Food Truck Champion
"This Vendredi's food truck is actually the best hamburger in Portland… and it's not even close." Caramelization crisped to perfection. Simple, balanced: cheese, shredded lettuce, pickles, vendredi sauce. Light, fluffy bun.
🚘 Food truck — check social media to confirm they're there before heading over.
2NOSH KITCHEN BAR — Down East Magazine #1
The "Not a Gimmick" Burger: provolone, red pepper marinara, pesto. Blend of beef, pork, and herbs. TWO FAT patties. Down East Magazine #1 Burger
3HOT SUPPA — The Double Double
Homage to In-N-Out. Maine-raised beef (brisket, chuck, rib blend from Maine Family Farms). Buttered brioche, garlic aioli, smoked cheddar from Pineland Farms.
4OWL & ELM — Yarmouth Gastropub
Ground chuck, brisket, short rib blend (Maine Family Farms). Laced with house steak sauce. Smoked cheddar (Pineland Farms). Buttered brioche with garlic aioli. Down East Magazine recognized
More Great Burgers
- Mash Tun — "Great juicy burgers, among the best in Maine." Great vibe.
- The Great Lost Bear — Solid pub burger + 70+ beers on tap. Portland institution.
- Wayside Tavern — Dark horse. Elevated pub burger, craft cocktails, gastropub atmosphere.
- Oun Lido's — Smash burger SUNDAY & MONDAY ONLY. Reserve via Resy. Locals rave.
- Gnarley's — Best veggie/vegan burger. "Might not even realize" it's plant-based.
- Chains: Five Guys (198 Maine Mall Rd) · Burger King (449 Forest Ave) · McDonald's (multiple) · Elevation Burger (organic)
1ROSE FOODS — Bon Appétit National Champion
Authentic Jewish café. Chad Conley was inspired by NYC's Lower East Side. Crafted the winning recipe in his home kitchen. 🆕 Bon Appétit "Best Bagels in America" 2023
2FORAGER — Wood-Fired Bagels
Wood-fired bagels (Montreal influence). Brick oven fired 3 hours before baking. Early morning ritual. Bakers start while Portland sleeps. Market component. Bon Appétit recognized
3SCRATCH BAKING COMPANY — Sourdough Specialists
"I was sure New York bagels were the best bagels. But then I discovered Scratch." Changed one writer's entire perspective. Food & Wine "Best Bagels in America" 2021
4MISTER BAGEL — Traditional Authority
Portland institution since 1980s. Traditional bagel bakery expanded across Maine.
5ROVER BAGEL — Biddeford
Closed about a year, reopened to fanfare January 2025. Artisan approach, creative flavors. Worth the drive — combine with Mister Donut and Palace Diner. Bon Appétit "Best Bagels in America" 2023Food & Wine 2021
More Bagel Spots
- Tandem Coffee + Bakery — Portland (East Bayside). Coffee + bagels. Local favorite.
- The Works Café (formerly Bagel Works) — 15 Temple St, Portland. Opened 1990. 11 New England locations.
- Rosemont Market & Bakery — Multiple Portland locations. Artisan approach.
- Bernie's Foreside (Falmouth) — Mister Bagel counter. Suburban option.
- Sunrise Bagels — Three locations including Augusta. Sourdough made fresh daily.
Best times: Early morning 7–9 AM for full selection. Many shops close when they sell out. "The earlier you arrive, the more choices you have." Weekend mornings busiest.
1THE HOLY DONUT — The Potato Donut Pioneers
Uses Maine potatoes in the batter — denser, moister texture. Portland institution. Sell out daily — arrive before noon for full selection. Weekend mornings busiest.
Famous flavors: Dark Chocolate Sea Salt · Maple Bacon · Pomegranate · Blueberry Lemon · Blueberry Cinnamon · Maine Apple (seasonal) · Toasted Coconut · CCC (Chocolate Caramel Coconut) · Cannoli · Classic Vanilla Glaze · Sweet Potato Ginger
🚘 Best parking: Scarborough location ("more parking and fewer crowds"). Commercial St has waterfront parking. Park Ave = tough.
More Donut Spots
- Hot Mini Donuts — Portland. HOT fresh donuts made to order. 4.5/5 (8 reviews). Traditional approach, opposite of Holy Donut.
- Eighty 8 Donuts Café — Portland. Café with donuts.
- Standard Baking Co. — Portland. French-style pastries. "Locals more likely to be here than Holy Donut."
- Zu Bakery — Portland. Artisan, French-inspired.
- Cinnamon Girl — Portland. Specializes in cinnamon rolls + donuts.
- Port City Bakery — "Finest cake donuts around." Traditional, no gimmicks. Super local vibe.
- Dutch's — Portland. Breakfast/lunch + "some of the best donuts in Portland."
- Mister Donut, Biddeford — Over 100 years in operation! Maple bacon "practically melts in your mouth." Worth the 30-min drive — combine with Rover Bagel and Palace Diner.
- Ms. Rosie / Ms. Leah's Donuts (food truck) — Elaborate hot decorated donuts. 007 maple bacon, Bamm Bamm with Fruity Pebbles.
Portland Beer Stats: 25+ breweries in Greater Portland · 100+ statewide · Second-highest brewery per capita in US (14.3 per 100k people, 2024) · "Almost as many breweries as Subarus" (local saying) · Heavy focus on New England IPAs (hazy, juicy) · Also: sours, lagers, stouts, experimental styles
1ALLAGASH BREWING — The Maine Flagship
One of the best outdoor spaces of any Portland brewery. Large outdoor area, covered seating, fire pits. Spacious indoor tasting room. Free tours (reserve ahead). Bite Into Maine food truck often here.
Famous beers: Allagash White (flagship Belgian witbier) · Curieux (bourbon barrel-aged) · Saison · Tripel · Brett series (wild ales) · Coolship series (spontaneous fermentation)
2BISSELL BROTHERS — Thompson's Point
Larger waterfront location at Thompson's Point. Full restaurant with locally-sourced menu. "Beer is just the beginning." Near ice skating in winter. The Substance Ale (flagship IPA available daily). Founded 2013.
3MAINE BEER COMPANY — Precision Brewing
City's best food trucks pop up in taproom. Small but fun. Outdoor seating, covered areas, corn hole, games, fire pits, community vibe. "The entrance can be hard to find, but it's worth seeking out." Dog friendly.
4GOODFIRE BREWING — Detroit Pizza + Beer
One of the few Portland breweries with substantial food. Detroit-style square pizza. Hoppy beers, sours, pilsners, lagers, stouts, rotating seasonals. Heaters and fire pits in colder months. Family-friendly.
5RISING TIDE BREWING — East Bayside Mecca
Large outdoor space. Garage doors open to tasting room. "Extremely cozy environment in East Bayside, the brewery Mecca of Portland." Family-owned. Food trucks frequent the area.
More Portland Breweries
- Lone Pine Brewing — 28 Resurgam Place. Hop-forward New England IPAs.
- Austin Street Brewery — East Bayside (original) + new Industrial Way. Neighborhood favorite.
- Oxbow Brewing — East Bayside. Farmhouse ales, European-style. Vendredi's food truck (best burger in Portland!) often here.
- Shipyard Brewing — Old Port, founded 1994. Famous for Shipyard Pumpkin Beer. Tours available.
- Belleflower Brewing — East Bayside. Small, quality-focused.
- Battery Steele — Industrial Way. Small batch, local ingredients.
- Foundation Brewing — East Bayside cluster.
- Bunker Brewing — South Portland.
- Fore River Brewing — South Portland.
- Gritty McDuff's — Old Port. Portland's first brewpub (1988). Pub food.
Brewery Neighborhoods — Walk Between Them:
Industrial Way Cluster: Allagash · Goodfire · Lone Pine · Austin St (new) · Battery Steele · Foundation — all within walking distance!
East Bayside "Brewery Mecca": Rising Tide · Austin St (original) · Belleflower · Oxbow · Definitive — all walkable!
South Portland: Bissell Brothers (Thompson's Point) · Bunker · Fore River — 5-minute drive between them
Track trucks at breweries: allagash.com · bissellbrothers.com · Check each brewery's website/social for food truck schedules
Top 10 — Southern Maine
1LOBSTER SHACK AT TWO LIGHTS — Cape Elizabeth
Perched on rocky ledges above crashing surf. Two Lights State Park nearby with active lighthouse. "The views can't be beat. Crack off those lobster claws while waves crash into the dark, intimidating rocks just feet away." Quintessential Maine lobster shack.
🚘 15 min from Portland. Very touristy but spectacular. Combine with Portland Head Light visit.
2BITE INTO MAINE — Portland Head Light
Maine's most iconic lighthouse backdrop. Rolls $29.50–$37.50. Maine or Connecticut style. Spectacular photo opportunity + great lobster.
3THE CLAM SHACK — Kennebunkport
Classic Maine shack near Kennebunkport attractions. Summer crowds. Parking can be challenging in season.
4RED'S EATS — Wiscasset (Legendary)
Famous for massively overstuffed lobster rolls — full pound of lobster meat. "Gets lots of bad press, but year after year we go back and always think it is the best." Long lines in summer (30–60 min).
5HARRASEEKET LUNCH & LOBSTER — Freeport
"Take a break from power shopping L.L. Bean's and the outlets and head to Harraseeket." Working harbor, active fishing port. Picnic tables on pavement and tiny dining room. Pretty extensive menu for a lobster shack.
6FOX'S LOBSTER HOUSE — York / Nubble Lighthouse
At Maine's famous "Nubble" lighthouse. Spectacular photo opportunity combined with great lobster. Lobster rolls, whole lobsters, fried seafood, chowder. Very touristy — combine with lighthouse photos.
7BARNACLE BILLY'S — Ogunquit
Beautiful harbor setting in Perkins Cove. Scenic, touristy, summer crowds and traffic.
8DAY'S CRABMEAT & LOBSTER — Yarmouth
"True Maine experience." Outdoor red picnic tables. Classic roadside seafood shack. Easy combination with Portland trips.
9OFF THE BOAT LOBSTERS — York
"Atlantic to plate lobster shack." Fresh-caught lobsters every day right at the dock. Call ahead or show up. New to lobster? Check out "Lobster 101" on their website.
10Additional Southern Maine Shacks
- The Goldenrod — York Beach. Famous for taffy + lobster roll.
- Cape Neddick Lobster Pound — Cape Neddick
- Billy's Chowder House — Wells. Voted best chowder in Maine.
- Congdon's Donuts — Wells. Iconic donuts + lobster roll combination.
- Cook's Lobster & Ale House — Bailey Island, causeway views
- Morse's Cribstone Grill — Bailey Island
- Giant Stairs Seafood — Bailey Island
- Gurnet Trading Co. — Brunswick, seafood market + eatery
Top 10 — Midcoast & Downeast
1FIVE ISLANDS LOBSTER CO. — Georgetown
"One of the best drive-up views to a restaurant in all of Maine." Harbor known as "Prettiest harbor in Maine." Working harbor, authentic experience. "One of my happy places. I love all the food here." About 45 min from Portland.
🚘 Worth the drive. Can combine with Reid State Park.
2ERICA'S SEAFOOD — Harpswell (Hidden Gem)
"One of Maine's best lobster shacks." Down a peninsula, end of the road, overlooking beautiful Potts Harbor. A true find.
3ESTES LOBSTER HOUSE — Harpswell Islands
Scenic drive worth it — islands connected by small causeways. More of a family restaurant than shack. Lobster + full seafood menu. Also: Estes I, II, III (multiple locations on islands).
4McLOON'S LOBSTER SHACK — Spruce Head Island
Picnic tables, harbor views, island vibe. Seasonal. Quality + setting = worth the drive for Midcoast Maine trip.
5SHAW'S FISH & LOBSTER WHARF — New Harbor
"Tucked away in the Mid Coast treasure town of New Harbor." Working wharf. "You'd never guess..." it's there.
6LOCAL LOBSTER POUND — Near Rockland
Favorite of longtime Maine residents. Near Rockland but less touristy. Picnic tables in the open or covered porch in back. "Our most favorite."
7TRENTON BRIDGE LOBSTER POUND — Trenton
Simple, quality, no frills. "When you want seafood without shticks or gimmicks." Perfect stop before/after Bar Harbor. Route 3 traffic can be heavy in summer.
8THURSTON'S LOBSTER POUND — Bernard (Bass Harbor)
MDI classic. Local favorite vs. the tourist traps in Bar Harbor proper.
9STEWMAN'S LOBSTER POUND — Bar Harbor
"Lobster, lobster, lobster! Gotta love Bar Harbor if you are a foodie." $31 for 1.25 lb lobster dinner. Complete lobster dinners, rolls, steamers, sides.
10LUNCH ON THE WHARF — Corea (Downeast)
Sixth-generation lobsterman Joe started serving lobsters, rolls, and lobster grilled cheese sandwiches ("delicious!"). Menu expands yearly. Wharf-top seating. Crab claws, baked beans, haddock chowder, oysters.
Important Reality Check: "Buying lobster off the boat isn't really a thing in Maine." Lobsters are measured and crated on the water, handed to co-ops. Too much trouble to sell off the boat. But here are the best direct sources:
HARBOR FISH MARKET — Best in Portland
"Portland has many of the most well-regarded restaurants anywhere in the northeast, and the best of those come to us as their source for quality seafood." They'll cook lobsters for you. Working waterfront.
🚘 Driver Tip: Tourists and chefs both shop here. Frequent pickup/dropoff.
LUCKY CATCH CRUISES — Unique Experience
Take a lobster boat cruise, catch lobsters, buy what you caught. Restaurant at pier will cook your lobsters. Tourists love this experience.
KLENDA SEAFOOD INC. — Wholesale
Online Shipping Options
- Maine Lobster Now — mainelobsternow.com — Free overnight shipping over $150. Free chowder sample when you spend $200. Step-by-step cooking instructions.
- Get Maine Lobster — getmainelobster.com — Online ordering, ships nationwide. Select live, fresh, or frozen. Choose delivery date.
- Port Lobster Co. — Cape Porpoise Pier, Kennebunkport — portlobster.com — Direct from pier, no preservatives.
What to Look For When Buying
- Hard shell vs soft shell — Hard = more meat | Soft = sweeter
- Lively lobsters — Active, claws up = fresh
- Market price varies daily/seasonally — Summer typically cheaper (more boats fishing)
- Ask where caught — Maine lobsters only!
- Many places will cook lobsters for you (free or small fee) or pack with ice for travel
Top 10 Portland Food Trucks
1BITE INTO MAINE — The Lobster Truck
Two permanent locations. Lobster rolls $29.50–$37.50. The lighthouse location is one of the most scenic dining experiences in Maine.
2VENDREDI'S (at Oxbow Brewing) — Best Burger in Portland
"Actually the best hamburger in Portland... and it's not even close." Check social media to confirm they're there.
3TACOS DEL SEOUL — Korean-Mexican Fusion
Korean BBQ tacos, burritos, fusion bowls. Korean-Mexican fusion done right.
4THE MUTHAH TRUCKAH — Comfort Food
Highly rated comfort food, creative preparations. Rotating locations.
5–10More Top Trucks
- Nom Bai — Vietnamese
- Crispy Gai — Thai
- Mainely Meatballs — Italian meatball subs
- Mac Daddy's Seafood and Tots — Mac & cheese, seafood, tater tots
- Taco Cat — Tacos (name spelled backwards = Taco Cat)
- Portland Lobster Co. — Also has restaurant location
Food Truck Parks & Regular Locations
EASTERN PROMENADE — Portland’s daily truck row
5 or more trucks most days, with picnic tables and lawn seating looking out over Casco Bay. Regulars include Vy Bánh Mì, Cargo Pizza and Falafel Mafia.
CONGDON’S AFTER DARK — Wells
Billed as New England’s largest food truck park, next to Congdon’s Doughnuts. Up to 10 trucks a night, a beer garden, live music and kids’ entertainment. Hours have run 4–8 PM in past seasons. Each night’s trucks are posted on the website by 1 PM. Free parking, leashed pets welcome.
THOMPSON'S POINT — Summer Sunsets LIVE
Portland's premier hangout spot. Best food trucks + musicians + performers. Top beer/cocktails from local partners. Free, open to public, pet-friendly, kid-friendly. Select Sundays 10 AM–3 PM market. Majestic sunset views.
ALLAGASH BREWING — Regular Food Truck Rotation
Multiple trucks rotate regularly. Bite Into Maine often here. Check allagash.com for current schedule.
FORT WILLIAMS PARK — Luke’s Lobster and A Taste of Maine trucks
Luke’s Lobster and A Taste of Maine each run a food truck in the park, by Portland Head Light. Bite Into Maine is here too.
Suburban Locations
- Windham Community Park — Mondays. 2025 vendors: B & D Roadside Grill, Great Scott's MacWagon, Poppie's Kettle Corn.
- Gorham — 664 Gray Road, Naturally Jammin. Summer Thursdays: July 1, 15, 29; Aug 12, 26; Sept 9, 23. 6–8 food trucks per event.
- Brunswick Town Mall — Maine Street side, downtown. Summer, up to 5 trucks. 2025: Taco the Town and others.
More Food Truck Parks Around Southern and Western Maine
📅 Days and dates are for the 2026 season, from Green & Healthy Maine’s food truck park list. Schedules change, so check before you go.
STANDISH — Summer Sunset Eats
9 trucks each week, live music, a dog park and room for kids to play.
WESTBROOK — Bridge StrEAT Food Truck Park
A food truck park in Westbrook. Check its listings for current days and trucks.
CORNISH — Trucks at the Track
Up to 10 trucks at the town-owned horse track, with live music some evenings.
SOUTH PARIS — Food Truck Friday
Monthly trucks and live music in the library parking lot.
NORTH WATERFORD — Food Truck Park
At a busy stop on the ATV trails. The closest regular truck stop to Bridgton that turned up.
ELIOT — Food Truck Central
A rotating daily lineup, with Farmer Bill’s Frozen Custard there every day.
LISBON FALLS — Tasty Tuesday Food Truck Rally
Over 30 trucks: BBQ, tacos, sandwiches, doughnuts, crepes and more.
Additional Food Trucks by Cuisine (40+)
Lobster & SeafoodBite Into Maine · Mac Daddy's Seafood · Portland Lobster Co. · Luke’s Lobster (truck at Fort Williams Park, Cape Elizabeth) · A Taste of Maine (truck at Fort Williams Park, Cape Elizabeth)
Tacos & MexicanTacos Del Seoul (Korean fusion) · Taco Cat · Taco the Town (Brunswick) · El Rodeo Go · Vazquez Mexican Takeout (Milbridge)
AsianCrispy Gai (Thai) · Nom Bai (Vietnamese) · Rose's Spring Rolls · Various rotating Asian trucks
Sandwiches & ComfortThe Muthah Truckah · Black Salt · The Portland Board (charcuterie) · Mainely Meatballs
Bowls & HealthyBowlicious (Brunswick) · Vantage Point Provisions
Desserts & SweetsBogs Bakery · Ms. Rosie/Ms. Leah's Donuts (hot elaborate donuts) · Poppie's Kettle Corn (Windham) · Farmer Bill's Frozen Custard
Finding Food Trucks — Tracking Tools
- Roaming Hunger — roaminghunger.com — 77 Portland trucks tracked
- Food Truck Movement App — iOS/Android — tracks Portland trucks
- Food Trux App — Launching in Portland
- Maine Food Truck Tracker — Web-based, 23 trucks
- StreetFoodFinder — Website + mobile apps
- Food Truckalico — Instagram page tracking Portland trucks
- Check individual truck social media day-of — schedules change frequently
- Brewery websites — Allagash, Goodfire, Lone Pine, Rising Tide, Battery Steele all list their trucks
ItalianLeeward · Ribollita (Tuscan) · Tipo (upscale) · LB Kitchen · Mimmo's (classic red-sauce) · Bonobo (wood-fired pizza) · Via Vecchia (traditional)
AsianIzakaya Minato (Japanese izakaya) · Oun Lido's (Pan-Asian) · Miyake (upscale sushi) · Cong Tu Bot (Vietnamese) · Tempo Dulu (Indonesian)
SeafoodEventide · Scales · Fore Street · Luke's Lobster · Street & Co. · Harbor Fish Market · Five Islands Lobster · DeMillo's (floating restaurant)
PizzaOtto (multiple locations, creative rotating) · Slab (Sicilian-style thick slices) · Bonobo (wood-fired) · Portland Pie Co. (local chain) · Flatbread Company (organic wood-fired) · Ohana (Detroit-style square) · Micucci's (Italian)
Steakhouse / AmericanDavid's 388 · The Grill Room · Local 188 · Blue Spoon (comfort food) · Gritty McDuff's · Great Lost Bear · Rosie's (casual)
Breakfast / BrunchBecky's Diner (open 5 AM) · Hot Suppa · Bintliff's American Cafe · Green Elephant (vegetarian) · Dutch's · Standard Baking Co.
Mediterranean / Middle EasternArabica (fast-casual wraps) · Local 188 · Emilitsa (Greek taverna) · Freebird Burritos
Bars & BeerNovare Res (Belgian beer bar, 500+ bottles) · Great Lost Bear (70+ taps) · Gritty McDuff's (Portland's first brewpub) · Bull Feeney's (Irish pub) · Ri Ra Irish Pub · Arcadia (bar + vintage arcade)
Coffee ShopsTandem Coffee (specialty, East Bayside) · Bard Coffee (third-wave) · Speckled Ax (roaster, café) · Coffee By Design (local roaster, multiple cafés) · Arabica Coffee Co.
Bakeries & SweetsStandard Baking Co. (legendary) · Scratch Baking Co. · The Holy Donut (potato donuts) · Gorgeous Gelato · Mount Desert Island Ice Cream · Gelato Fiasco · Two Fat Cats (whoopie pies) · Rosemont Market & Bakery
Veggie / VeganGreen Elephant (vegetarian bistro) · Elevation Burger (organic) · Gnarley's (plant-based burger) · Chipotle (customize)
South Portland HighlightsMultiple options near Maine Mall · Hotels area restaurants · Waterfront restaurants (evening) · Thai Spice · Several local favorites
Old Port (Hardest Parking)
- Street meters: $1.50/hour, 2-hour max most spots
- Free 2-hour spots on some side streets (explore)
- Parking garages: Fore Street, Temple Street, Elm Street
- Best drop-off: Commercial Street for waterfront restaurants
- Best drop-off: Middle/Fore Street intersection for Old Port core
- Busy restaurants: Eventide, Fore Street, Scales = allow 15 min for parking
East End / Washington Ave (Easier)
- Leeward, Oun Lido's, Izakaya Minato, Terlingua: Street parking much easier than Old Port
- Most breweries (Rising Tide, Austin Street, Belleflower, Oxbow, Goodfire, Lone Pine)
- Free street parking most times
Industrial Way Breweries (Easiest)
- Allagash, Goodfire, Lone Pine, Austin Street (new), Battery Steele, Foundation
- Dedicated parking lots at all locations
- Easy to park and brewery-hop
Waterfront / Commercial Street
- Portland Lobster Co., Becky's Diner, Porthole, Harbor Fish Market
- Commercial Street metered parking
- Easier than Old Port core
🌎 Key Food & Dining Resources:
portlandfoodmap.com · visitportland.com · roaminghunger.com (food trucks) · visitmaine.com · jamesbeard.org
All information accurate as of October 2025. Always verify hours, prices, and availability before visiting. Market prices for lobster fluctuate daily.