Guide to Waterfront Dining in Portland
Portland’s working waterfront is one of the city’s most attractive assets. Lucky for locals and tourists alike, there are world-class dining destinations scattered along the water like seashells on the shore – from upscale fine dining to casual breweries and lobster shacks, there’s a little something for everyone, and an ocean view from just about every seat.
Boone’s Fish House & Oyster Room: Boone’s boasts not one, but two outdoor decks over the water, so there are plenty of seats available from which to enjoy a sunset cocktail or seafood dinner. They are best known for their baked stuffed lobster, created by Alexander Boone when the restaurant originally opened in 1898, but their raw bar and lobster rolls are also worth the visit, if the views alone aren’t enough to draw you in.
Camp Pennant: Located on a gorgeous waterfront patio outside of their resto bar right on Commercial Street, Camp Pennant features a wood fired oven with Neapolitan pizza and seafood options, their own line of beverages, and a whimsy adventure atmosphere! The space features a casual, backyard lifestyle feel, has a nod to camping, and encompasses the Maine outdoor lifestyle.
Portland Lobster Company: Right on a dock in the center of downtown, the Portland Lobster Company is hard to miss if you’re looking for waterfront dining. Their casual atmosphere goes great with a lobster roll, a beer, and some waterfront views. To top it all off, they offer daily live music.
The Porthole Restaurant & Pub: Home of Portland’s largest waterfront deck, the Porthole is a destination not just for dinner, but for seaside brunch and live music almost every night. The restaurant started as an early morning breakfast staple for lobstermen on their way out to sea. Now, it’s a great stop for a casual meal anytime, for locals and tourists alike.
Luke’s Lobster: Located off of the Portland Pier, Luke’s offers whole fresh lobster and seafood rolls with a full bar and 360-degree views of the boats that caught the seafood. Luke’s sources directly from fishermen with a focus on sustainability, supporting Maine’s oceans while showing off the bounty that comes from our local waters.
J’s Oyster: J’s is a local staple for lobster rolls and fresh oysters, sourced daily from local fishermen. They offer a classic menu of New England seafood favorites like shrimp scampi, steamed clams, and homemade chowder in a relaxed setting, with ample seating on their dockside patio.
The King’s Head: This Gastropub is quite literally built on Portland’s history. The wharf on which The King’s Head is located was originally constructed with debris from British King George III’s attack on the city. Now, the cozy pub is known for serving an incredible craft beer selection, including 35 rotating taps. Don’t worry, their knowledgeable team will help you decipher the extensive menu to find a brew you love. Enjoy it alongside their elevated pub fare and exceptional views from a historic building on Portland’s working waterfront.
Rí Rá Irish Pub & Restaurant: This traditional pub features interiors imported from Ireland, lending a sense of historic nostalgia to the lively atmosphere right on the water. The downstairs bar feels cozy and intimate, while the upstairs offers stunning waterfront views. Stop in for a pint and some live music or enjoy a leisurely bite by the ocean.
Scales: This upscale seafood restaurant is part of the renowned dining group that includes Standard Baking Company and Fore Street. The dining room features an open kitchen and large windows overlooking boats docked on the wharf, so you’ll have an exciting view from any seat in the house – if you can look up from the gorgeous plates of food. The seasonal menu focuses on fresh seafood paired with local beers, a curated wine list, and craft cocktails.
Photo: Liquid Riot
DiMillo’s on the Water: It’s all in the name at DiMillo’s. This floating restaurant is known for its ultra-fresh seafood, served on a ship in DiMillo’s Marina. They serve traditional Italian fare and fresh lobster dinners alongside an extensive beer and wine list. Of course, every seat gets served a side of harbor views with dinner.
Island Lobster Company: Portland’s waterfront extends beyond the Old Port – all the way across Casco Bay. Just off the Peaks Island ferry, Island Lobster Company is stocked with lobster, clam, and shrimp rolls and baskets of fried seafood, all served with stunning views of the bay off their back porch. The husband-and-wife duo Thom and Katie prioritize local farms and fishermen, focusing on a trap-to-table approach to ingredient sourcing.
Whether you’re in the market for breakfast, casual lunch, or a special occasion dinner, Portland’s vibrant waterfront offers a wide variety of incredible eateries to choose from.
Waterfront Dining Guide was created by you, the voters! Featured dining includes the Top Ten for Portland Old Port’s Best of Awards 2023: Best Waterfront Dining! The winner will be announced LIVE at the Best of Awards 2023 Presentation on Tuesday, August 8th at 5pm at Portland House of Music and Events. Tickets still available!
Don’t see your go-to spot on the water here? Let us know in the comments or at [email protected].
