For visiting food lovers, it will be hard to choose among the tantalizing dining options in Greater Portland.
"Foodiest Small Town in America"
Long known for serving the freshest of lobster and seafood, Maine has now gained a national reputation; Bon Appétit magazine recently dubbed Portland the "Foodiest Small Town in America” for its innovative restaurants and growing number of award-winning chefs. James Beard award-winners and world-class chefs with international backgrounds who have settled in Portland have created an assemblage of restaurants to win over an epicure’s heart. Portland has been said to have as many restaurants per capita as dining hot-spot San Francisco, but it’s their quality, not quantity, that’s got everyone buzzing lately.
(See list of restaurants)
Fine Dining Restaurants & Downtown Bistros
Portland’s dining scene targets all personalities and tastes, from romantic, sophisticated dining to funky, artsy cafés. Breakfast is another of Portland’s specialties; early risers can start their day with the fishing crews at a dockside diner, while more leisurely visitors can savor brunch in a fine café or bistro. For dinner, enjoy views of Casco Bay from restaurants that line the harbor or soak up the ambiance of venues tucked away inside beautifully restored historic buildings throughout downtown.
Portland's Farm-to-Table Movement
Many of Maine’s restaurateurs are proud to be part of the burgeoning farm-to-table movement and, wherever possible, use fish, meat, organic produce and naturally grown fruit that come from local farmers, fishermen and suppliers. Local foods are featured at century-old farmer’s markets and at a variety of small specialty stores that offer a blend of prepared, imported and local foods. And with a new initiative, the Gulf of Maine Research Institute is helping consumers see the value in supporting locally and sustainably harvested seafood to both reduce ecologic impact and ensure a healthy fisheries industry.
Award-Winning Maine Chefs
When you add "bold” and "innovative” to "fresh and local,” you’ve described the spirit of Greater Portland’s restaurant scene and its talented chefs. Inspired cooking reveals the essential flavor of natural ingredients such as farmstead cheeses, zesty herbs and robust root vegetables; creative presentation and atmosphere complete the package. For visiting food lovers, it will be hard to choose among the tantalizing dining options in Greater Portland.
Harvest on the Harbor, Maine's Premier Food & Wine Experience
Harvest on the Harbor celebrates the creativity of Maine’s cuisine and the quality of our locally made products. Join us on Portland’s waterfront the third week in October for three days chock full of scrumptious edibles, cooking demonstrations and over 150 wine, beer and spirit samples. For a full schedule of Harvest activities, visit
Harvest on the Harbor and sign up to receive e-mail updates as new happenings are unveiled.