Best Seafood Restaurants in Old Port, Portland, ME: Fresh Catches & Local Vibes
Best Seafood Restaurants in Old Port, Portland, ME: Fresh Catches & Local Vibes
Discover the heart of Maine's culinary scene with our guide to the best seafood restaurants in Old Port, Portland, ME. Nestled in a historic waterfront district known for cobblestone streets and fresh catches from Casco Bay, Old Port offers a seafood lover's paradise. From lobster rolls to raw bar delights, here are the top spots to savor the ocean's bounty.
Click on the place names below to open their locations in Google Maps.
Quick Guide to Old Port Seafood Spots
Place | Rating | Highlights |
---|---|---|
Old Port Sea Grill & Raw Bar | ⭐ 4.4/5 | Stunning 500-gallon saltwater fish tank enhances the raw bar experience. |
DiMillo's On the Water | ⭐ 4.5/5 | Unique dining on a historic floating ferry with harbor views. |
Street & Co | ⭐ 4.6/5 | Mediterranean-inspired seafood on a charming cobblestone street. |
The Porthole Restaurant & Pub | ⭐ 4.3/5 | Famous twin lobster dinners on a working waterfront patio. |
The Highroller Lobster Co. | ⭐ 4.6/5 | Innovative lobster rolls with unique flavors like avocado. |
J’s Oyster | ⭐ 4.4/5 | No-frills shack with massive $20 clam buckets. |
Portland Lobster Company | ⭐ 4.2/5 | Lively dockside spot for hefty pound-and-a-half lobster dinners. |
Dive into Old Port's Seafood Scene
Old Port Sea Grill & Raw Bar ⭐ 4.4/5
Modern seafood restaurant with a 500-gallon saltwater fish tank and emphasis on raw bar offerings. Enjoy a wide variety of east coast oysters in a central location in historic Old Port, with large lounge and dining capacity for groups.
💡 Local Tip: Ask for outdoor seating to people-watch on Commercial Street
🎵 Atmosphere: Modern interior with concrete bar and fish tank
🅿️ Parking: Street parking until 6 PM, nearby paid garages
"Lobster with 5 Star Service" (Christen D, Tripadvisor)
Note: Some report inconsistent food quality and premium pricing.
DiMillo's On the Water ⭐ 4.5/5
Historic floating restaurant on a converted ferry with panoramic harbor views. Experience a unique boat dining adventure with award-winning seafood dishes, and enjoy the convenience of online ordering.
💡 Local Tip: Try the happy hour specials
🎵 Atmosphere: Nautical-themed with historic charm
🅿️ Parking: Limited waterfront parking
"A cool adventure with waterfront dining" (Roland A.)
Note: Occasional long waits during peak times.
Street & Co ⭐ 4.6/5
Mediterranean-inspired seafood bistro operating since 1989 on a cobblestone pedestrian street. With over 35 years of experience, they offer locally sourced ingredients in an intimate setting.
💡 Local Tip: Find the hidden Wharf Street entrance
🎵 Atmosphere: Bistro-style with open kitchen
🅿️ Parking: Street parking until 6 PM
The Porthole Restaurant & Pub ⭐ 4.3/5
Classic Northeast diner famous for twin lobster dinners on working waterfront. Savor an authentic Maine dining experience with live music events and a scenic waterfront patio.
💡 Local Tip: Visit during Sunday brunch for lobster Benedict
🎵 Atmosphere: Casual dockside diner
🅿️ Parking: Limited wharf parking
"The Porthole has bounced back. Go enjoy..." (Tripadvisor)
Note: Long wait times during peak season.
The Highroller Lobster Co. ⭐ 4.6/5
Creative lobster roll variations from former food truck pioneers. Try the avocado lobster roll, paired with a local craft beer, in a quick-service format perfect for a casual bite.
💡 Local Tip: Try their take on Mexican street corn
🎵 Atmosphere: Modern fast-casual
🅿️ Parking: Street parking only
Note: Small seating area may feel cramped.
J’s Oyster ⭐ 4.4/5
No-frills seafood shack known for massive clam buckets and local vibe. Dive into a $20 clam bucket special for an authentic working waterfront experience, with late-night service available.
💡 Local Tip: Cash-only policy
🎵 Atmosphere: Dive bar meets fish market
🅿️ Parking: Nearby paid lots
"Hole in the wall with incredible seafood" (Box of Maine)
Note: Basic furnishings, not for those seeking upscale ambiance.
Portland Lobster Company ⭐ 4.2/5
Lively dockside spot with pound-and-a-half lobster dinners. Indulge in large portions at outdoor picnic tables while enjoying live music by the water.
💡 Local Tip: Order at the window for fastest service
🎵 Atmosphere: Casual outdoor seafood shack
🅿️ Parking: Metered street parking
"Great spot for a quick lobster roll" (Tripadvisor)
Note: Can have a touristy atmosphere.
Explore Old Port's Seafood Delights
Ready to taste the freshest seafood in Maine? Head to Old Port, Portland, ME, and dive into these incredible spots. Pair your meal with a craft beer from a local brewery like Bissell Brothers, and enjoy the waterfront charm!
Images courtesy of Google Maps and respective businesses.