The Foodie’s Guide to a Weekend in Portland

Brewery hop

If you’re visiting Portland and didn’t check out at least one craft brewery, were you ever really there? Walkable and downtown, go to Shipyard Brewing Company for excellent vibes, and stay for the beer and the company. Hungry? Head over to Oxbow Blending & Bottling for your next stop. Enjoy the beer and pick up some Belgian frites from the Duckfat Frites Shack.

Want to get out of downtown for a bit? Head over to Industrial Way, a complex of local breweries. While they are all worth visiting, prioritize visiting Allagash—the brewery that needs no introduction. From there, choose your own adventure of where to visit (but my favorite is Battery Steele).

Portland Head Light

Take a stroll through Fort Williams Park in Cape Elizabeth (about a 20-minute drive from downtown Portland) to see why the Portland Head Light is the most photographed lighthouse in the United States. Sip on a coffee and take in the incredible views.

Explore Downtown

Portland has one of the most enjoyable downtown areas I’ve ever visited, and everything is SO walkable. Start in the Old Port to experience the charm of its cobblestone streets before walking up Congress Street to experience the commercial heart of the city.

Blyth & Burrows

If you’re looking for a space to enjoy a beautiful cocktail, this place has the speakeasy aesthetic nailed. Wait, did someone say speakeasy? When you’ve finished your drink, head through the hidden door to a nautical themed bar for a complete (and incredibly fun) vibe change.

Peaks Island

Take the Casco Bay Line ferry to Peaks Island (about 15 minutes each way) for a charming day trip. Explore the island on the walking loop trail, visit the quirky Umbrella Cover Museum, or enjoy the “trap-to-table” seafood at Island Lobster Company.

• Duckfat: Famous for their duck fat-friend Belgian frites, this is a can’t-miss stop when you visit Portland (and when you order your frites, be sure to get the flight of sauces!). Visit their original restaurant, or stop by the Duckfat Frites Shack to experience the magic.

• Eventide: If you’re coming to Maine for a lobster roll, you’d be remiss not to stop by Eventide for their brown butter lobster roll. While non-traditional, it is a culinary masterpiece and should be experienced by everyone at least once. And I say this as someone who generally doesn’t seek out seafood!

• The Holy Donut: A staple in Portland (and a few surrounding areas), The Holy Donut stands out for showcasing incredible potato donuts made from scratch daily. While there are some flavors served year-round, they rotate seasonal flavors as well—and when they run out for the day, that’s it! Get there early to make sure you have your choice of donuts—especially if you’re hoping to try their popular Maine Blueberry donut in the summer.

• Standard Baking Co.: A small bakery that always delivers. From sweet pastries and breads to a savory breakfast sandwich, Standard Baking Co. is a great little spot to stop into for breakfast, coffee, or a snack as you browse the shops in Old Port.

• Otto Pizza: If you’re looking for a great slice of pizza that may have some non-traditional ingredients, Otto will knock your socks off. Known for creative combinations that initially feel like head scratchers, they very quickly surpass all expectations and will leave you wondering why you haven’t been eating pizza this way your entire life. My favorite slice? The Mashed Potato, Bacon & Scallion.