Visitor's Guide 2025

YOUR FOODIE DESTINATION ICONIC MAINE EATS + UNIQUE LOCAL GEMS Portland, Maine, is a top food destination, known for its fresh seafood, farm-to-table culture, and diverse dining options. From cozy cafés to innovative fine dining, the city’s vibrant culinary scene attracts food enthusiasts seeking quality, creativity, and local flavors in every bite.

SIP + SAIL ADVENTURE Glide across Casco Bay with a glass of wine in hand on Wine Wise’s Sip & Sail excursions. Enjoy scenic views and curated tastings aboard Portland Schooner Co.’s historic schooners—perfect for a romantic or peaceful getaway. For a more customized coastal experience, Find Your Way Charters offers private boat tours tailored to your adventure, whether it’s island hopping, wildlife spotting, or a sunset cruise. COFFEE, COFFEE, COFFEE Start your Maine adventure with the perfect cup of coffee and a sweet treat. Coffee By Design brews each cup with ethically sourced beans, while Eighty8 Donuts offers irresistible, locally made donuts to pair with your drink. The rich flavors and delightful pastries will energize you for a day of exploring Portland’s charm. HAPPY HOUR DELIGHTS Portland’s happy hour scene is as diverse as it is inviting, with each spot bringing its own unique charm. Boone’s Fish House & Oyster Room pairs fresh seafood with stunning waterfront views for a true taste of Maine. At $3 Deweys , a cozy pub setting offers rotating beers and hearty comfort food. Just across the bridge in South Portland, Saltwater Grille serves up craft cocktails, fresh oysters, and stunning harbor views. TIDE TO TABLE Portland’s maritime heritage shines through its fresh, local seafood. On Peaks Island, Island Lobster Co. serves up delicious lobster rolls with stunning views. Maine Oyster Company offers freshly harvested oysters, while The Briny Babe brings the sea’s finest flavors to you. In Cape Elizabeth, The Lobster Shack at Two Lights is a must-visit for classic Maine seafood with breathtaking ocean views.

FOOD + BEVERAGE TOURS For a deeper dive into Portland’s culinary culture, guided tours are a must. Maine Day Ventures blends history and flavor. Portland Explorer combines scenic views with local brews. These tours offer an immersive taste of Portland. BREWING EXCELLENCE Portland’s craft beer scene blends history and innovation. Geary Brewing Co ., New England’s first post-prohibition craft brewery, offers classic, balanced beers. Allagash excels in Belgian-style ales. Rising Tide delivers bold flavors with bar games that are fun for everyone. Nonesuch River Brewing in Scarborough is a great family-friendly spot with unique brews. Orange Bike Brewing specializes in gluten-free beer. For a Detroit-style slice with your ale, head to Foundation Brewing . Don’t miss Shipyard , where innovation meets Maine’s brewing legacy. TRENDY SIPS + BITES Portland’s modern culinary scene shines at places like Luna Rooftop Bar , where stunning views pair with creative cocktails and small plates. Gather , located in Yarmouth, offers a cozy yet contemporary setting with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. These spots highlight the area’s growing reputation as a hub for innovation and flavor. RETRO TREATS For a nostalgic finish to your culinary journey, both A&C Soda Shop and Miss Portland Diner offer retro-inspired charm. At A&C Soda Shop , enjoy classic ice cream floats and milkshakes, while Miss Portland Diner serves up diner favorites in a cozy, vintage setting.

Maine Oyster Company Photo by: Maine Oyster Company

Bug Light Park Gather Photo by: Dawson Renaud Photo and Film Photo by: Maine Day Ventures

2025 / visit portland / 29 Drinking + Dining / 29