Best Seafood Restaurants in Portland, ME: Unforgettable Waterfront Dining
Best Seafood Restaurants in Portland, ME: Unforgettable Waterfront Dining
Portland, Maine's Old Port district is a seafood lover's paradise, where the freshest lobster, oysters, and fish are served alongside stunning waterfront views. From historic floating restaurants to casual wharf-side shacks, these top seafood restaurants in Portland, ME, capture the essence of coastal dining. Ready to dive into boat-to-table flavors? Let’s explore the best spots!
Click on the place names below to open their locations in Google Maps.
Place | Rating | Highlights |
---|---|---|
Luke's Lobster Portland Pier | ⭐ 4.6/5 | Waterfront shack with lobster rolls from freshly caught crustaceans. |
DiMillo's On the Water | ⭐ 4.5/5 | Historic floating restaurant with panoramic harbor views. |
Old Port Sea Grill & Raw Bar | ⭐ 4.4/5 | Modern bistro showcasing East Coast oysters with a 500-gallon fish tank. |
The Porthole Restaurant & Pub | ⭐ 4.3/5 | Classic diner famous for twin lobster dinners on the wharf. |
Street & Co | ⭐ 4.6/5 | Mediterranean-inspired seafood with wood-fired preparations. |
Scales | ⭐ 4.6/5 | Upscale dining with James Beard-nominated New England classics. |
Luke's Lobster Portland Pier ⭐ 4.6/5
Waterfront shack offering 360-degree views of lobster boats with rolls made from freshly caught crustaceans. This spot stands out with a direct lobster buying station on-site, a dog-friendly outdoor deck, and a full bar featuring local beers.
💡 Local Tip: Ask for counter seating to watch lobstermen unload catches
🎵 Atmosphere: Casual maritime shack with working waterfront views
🅿️ Parking: Metered spots on pier (non-marine)
The lobster roll was the best thing, the clam chowder was excellent
Note: Limited parking with marine spots restricted and metered parking enforced 24/7.
DiMillo's On the Water ⭐ 4.5/5
Historic floating restaurant in Portland Harbor serving award-winning seafood since 1954. Enjoy panoramic harbor views, Prime rib Fridays, and a unique on-board raw bar experience.
💡 Local Tip: Request upper deck seating for sunset views
🎵 Atmosphere: Nautical fine dining on converted car ferry
🅿️ Parking: Validated parking at nearby garage
Very cool unique place to eat - perfect for a special occasion
Note: Occasional long waits during peak season.
Old Port Sea Grill & Raw Bar ⭐ 4.4/5
Modern seafood bistro with a 500-gallon saltwater fish tank and emphasis on East Coast oysters. Highlights include an extensive raw bar selection, a craft cocktail program, and private dining for over 50 guests.
💡 Local Tip: Happy hour oyster specials 3-5pm daily
🎵 Atmosphere: Contemporary concrete bar with lounge seating
🅿️ Parking: Street parking only
Lobster with 5 Star Service but mussels were inedible on one visit
Note: Some reviews mention inconsistent food quality.
The Porthole Restaurant & Pub ⭐ 4.3/5
Classic NE diner known for twin lobster dinners and live music on the working waterfront. Standout features include the iconic Twin Lobster Dinner, weekend brunch with water views, and performances by local musicians.
💡 Local Tip: Cash-only establishment with ATM on-site
🎵 Atmosphere: Rustic wharf-side pub with picnic tables
🅿️ Parking: Limited wharf parking
Good Seafood and Waterside Ambiance, But Prepare for a Long Wait
Note: Expect long waits during summer weekends.
Street & Co ⭐ 4.6/5
Mediterranean-inspired seafood bistro on a cobblestone street with over 35 years of operation. Known for wood-fired seafood preparations, petite patio seating, and a commitment to organic and local sourcing.
💡 Local Tip: Ask about daily blackboard specials
🎵 Atmosphere: Intimate European-style bistro
🅿️ Parking: Street parking until 6pm
Note: No reservations for small parties.
Scales ⭐ 4.6/5
Upscale seafood establishment emphasizing New England classics with modern presentation. Boasting a James Beard-nominated chef, a raw bar with a shucking station, and an extensive wine list, this is a standout for fine dining.
🎵 Atmosphere: Industrial-chic waterfront dining
🅿️ Parking: Valet available
Perfect meal with exceptional service
Dive Into Portland’s Seafood Scene
Whether you’re craving a casual lobster roll or an upscale dining experience, these seafood restaurants in Portland, ME, offer something for every palate. Head to the Old Port district and savor the freshest flavors straight from the harbor!
Images courtesy of Google Maps and respective businesses.