Maine’s Best Seafood Restaurant? One Publication Thinks This Portland Joint Is It

Imagine trying to determine the best seafood restaurant in Maine. That’s like trying to decide who your favorite kid is.

Let’s be real here—Maine probably has 150 “best” seafood restaurants. It’s a state that prides itself on its cuisine, as it should, considering its proximity to the source. However, that didn’t stop one publication from putting its foot down and choosing only one to top them all.

The popular foodie site Eat This, Not That released an article highlighting the best seafood restaurants in each state. The list includes some of the most well-known establishments across the country, and Maine’s selection is no exception.

What is Maine's Best Seafood Restaurant?

The Pine Tree State’s representative is the highly acclaimed Eventide Oyster Company, located in Portland’s Old Port district. Known for its fresh oysters, cold and hot seafood dishes, and other local favorites, the restaurant has been a popular destination for both Mainers and tourists since it opened over a decade ago.

The menu also features a variety of delicious Maine lobster preparations, such as brown butter lobster rolls and hearty lobster stew—both favorites among many.

Eventide is One of Maine's Most Popular Restaurants

Eventide is known for its extremely long wait times, especially during the peak summer months when Portland feels more like New York City than a small town. Most seating at the small establishment is first come, first served, with a limited number of reservations that are incredibly difficult to secure. The bottom line is that you will most likely be waiting to eat at this restaurant. But if you love seafood, it’s worth it. And as we all know, a long wait usually signals a great restaurant—and that is certainly the case at Eventide.

Eventide is everything you want in a modern seafood restaurant. It utilizes the absolute freshest local ingredients, doesn’t shy away from fusing them with a variety of cuisines, and pumps out creative dishes that will wow you from plate to taste buds. I mean, just look at that lobster roll.

There is some relief, though, because Eventide has opened a second location right in the heart of Boston on Boylston Street. Perhaps it will also become Massachusetts’ best seafood joint. Let’s be honest—it probably should.

READ MORE: Explore 20+ Stunning Lighthouses Along Maine’s Coast

Congrats to Eventide on yet more tremendous press. It’s not like they need it, but they certainly deserve it.