10 Seafood Spots In Portland Maine Everyone’s Talking About
Portland, Maine has become a true seafood lover’s paradise. Fresh catches, talented chefs, and waterfront views combine to create unforgettable dining experiences.
Whether you’re craving classic lobster rolls or innovative ocean-to-table dishes, these popular spots deliver flavors that keep locals and visitors coming back for more.
1. Eventide Oyster Co.
Brown butter makes everything better, especially when it’s drizzled over a perfectly steamed lobster roll. I love how this place reimagines classic Maine seafood with creative touches that surprise your taste buds.
The oyster selection changes daily based on what’s freshest. You’ll find cozy counter seating where you can watch skilled shuckers work their magic while you enjoy briny bivalves.
2. Street and Co.
Copper pots hang from exposed brick walls while the aroma of garlic and white wine fills this intimate dining room. Every dish gets cooked right at your table in skillets that arrive sizzling hot.
The mussels marinara have earned legendary status among regulars. Fresh pasta twirls around perfectly tender seafood, creating comfort food elevated to an art form that warms you from the inside out.
3. Fore Street
Wood-fired cooking brings out incredible smoky flavors in everything from whole roasted fish to grilled scallops. I’m always amazed by how the open kitchen lets you see every flame-kissed creation take shape.
Local ingredients shine here, with daily menus reflecting what fishermen brought in that morning. The atmosphere buzzes with energy while maintaining an upscale yet approachable vibe that makes special occasions feel even more memorable.
4. The Lobster Shack at Two Lights
Ocean waves crash against rocky shores just steps from your picnic table at this classic seaside spot. Nothing beats eating lobster outdoors with salt air on your face and seagulls calling overhead.
You’ll order at the window, grab your number, and wait for steaming seafood baskets. The view alone is worth the drive, but add in buttery lobster and crispy fried clams for pure coastal Maine magic.
5. Luke’s Lobster
Simple ingredients let the sweet lobster meat speak for itself in these no-frills rolls. I appreciate how they skip the mayo overload and focus on what matters: fresh, sustainable seafood served on a buttered bun.
The casual counter-service setup means you can grab lunch quickly without sacrificing quality. Their commitment to traceable sourcing connects you directly to Maine’s fishing communities with every delicious bite you take.
6. J’s Oyster
This waterfront dive has served fishermen and tourists alike since 1977, earning its reputation through consistency and character. Wooden booths wear decades of stories while fishing nets and buoys decorate weathered walls.
Raw oysters arrive ice-cold and briny, paired perfectly with cold beer and harbor views. The no-nonsense menu features fried seafood platters generous enough to share, though you might not want to after that first bite.
7. Central Provisions
Small plates encourage sharing and tasting multiple dishes, which is exactly what you want when everything looks this good. Creative flavor combinations transform familiar seafood into exciting culinary adventures.
The chefs blend Mediterranean influences with Maine’s bounty, resulting in dishes like crispy smelt or crudo that feels both sophisticated and approachable. Dim lighting and communal tables create an energetic atmosphere perfect for memorable evenings with friends.
8. Portland Lobster Company
Working waterfront views mean you’re eating lobster while watching boats unload their daily catch. I find something authentic about enjoying seafood where it actually comes ashore, surrounded by working piers and maritime activity.
Whole steamed lobsters arrive with all the fixings for a traditional Maine feast. The outdoor deck gets crowded during peak season, but the lively atmosphere and fresh-off-the-boat quality make any wait worthwhile for seafood enthusiasts.
9. Scales
Chef-driven preparations elevate seafood beyond typical preparations, showcasing technical skill and ingredient respect. Each plate demonstrates how thoughtful cooking techniques can highlight natural flavors rather than mask them.
The tasting menu format takes you on a journey through Maine waters, course by course. Intimate seating and attentive service create fine-dining experiences without pretension, making you feel welcomed rather than intimidated by culinary excellence.
10. Gilbert’s Chowder House
Creamy, rich chowder loaded with clams, potatoes, and smoky bacon defines New England comfort in a bowl. I’ve tried chowder across the region, and this family-run spot consistently delivers the soul-warming stuff.
Beyond the famous chowder, you’ll find generous seafood rolls and fried platters that satisfy without breaking the bank. The casual, friendly vibe makes everyone feel like regulars, whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth.
