Isa Bistro in Portland, Maine, Named One of America’s Best Family-Run Restaurants

Tucked away in Portland's Parkside neighborhood is a charming little café that's bursting with flavor.

Isa Bistro is truly one of the city's 'can't-miss' spots. It may look rather unassuming from the outside, but once you step inside, you'll be immediately blown away by its beauty, warmth, and delicious aromas.

It's like stepping into a small restaurant in Europe—one of those family-run gems where everything on the menu is spot-on.

Well, what if I told you Isa was family run? Because, you guessed it, it is.

Isa Bistro is Family-Run

Suzie and Isuel Perez first opened Isa in 2015. The two first met, while both working in the industry in New York City. However, Portland came calling, and the rest is history.

Now the Perez's run one of the most successful restaurants in the city. One that has booked tables, outstanding reviews, and the most important part, delicious food.

So, it should come as no surprise that Isa was recently listed as one of America's best restaurants in a category that best describes the bistro.

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The popular culinary site LoveFood, known for its 'best of' lists, was at it again—this time focusing on family-run restaurants. LoveFood selected the best from every state, and guess what the pick was for Maine? That would be Isa Bistro.

Isa Bistro is Maine's Best Family-Run Restaurant

Here’s a bit of why LoveFood chose the popular Portland spot.

The husband-and-wife team behind this cozy bistro say their dishes are inspired 'by the places we've been and the things we love... Expect fresh, farm-to-table dishes like grilled shrimp and polenta, and lobster linguine.

Thank goodness for the Perezes' love of travel, because the menu really benefits from it. Ethnic cuisines blend perfectly with the fresh, local ingredients native to this region. The seasonal menus always seem to have the inspiration and creativity that diners search for.

While Isa's menu does rotate, it's not without some favorite mainstays. Believe me when I say the Tagliatelle Bolognese is one of the best bowls of pasta in Portland.

Isa Bistro is Currently the Most Popular Restaurant in Portland

Isa has only continued to grow in popularity for, I'm sure, many reasons. Other than the outstanding food, diners will also enjoy impeccable service, a first-rate drink program, and an ambiance that makes you feel like you're in a cozy café in Europe. It's quite an experience.

And with Isa being rated Portland's number 1 restaurant by TripAdvisor at the time of publishing this article, I can confidently say that LoveFood made the right choice with its selection.

Of course, if you have been to Isa, then you know exactly what I'm talking about. Believe me when I say, it's 100% worth a visit.