Portland, Maine, Ranks in the Top 10 Cities in the Nation for Food & Drinks

If you've been cruising around town, you might've noticed why Food & Wine recently placed Portland, Maine, at #9 on their list of best cities for food and drinks. Over the last decade, our city has seen a surge of unique restaurants popping up everywhere, offering a smorgasbord of options for foodies and cocktail lovers. From seafood and Italian to steakhouses, Asian cuisine, and tapas, there's something to satisfy every craving.

No one knows for sure why Portland's restaurant scene has exploded, but it's likely due to a mix of a growing culinary community, an abundance of local ingredients, and a steady stream of tourists. Back in 2018, Bon Appetit even crowned Portland as the restaurant city of the year, comparing its dining spots to the best in NYC and LA. That’s some serious praise!

Popular places like Eventide Oyster Co. and Central Provisions have become a few of the must-visit spots, drawing in both tourists and locals for repeat visits. These hotspots have helped to further put Portland on the map, making it a go-to destination for anyone who loves good food and great drinks. Whether you're in the mood for fresh seafood or creative small plates, these restaurants have got you covered.

I love checking out new places to not only experience new food options, but to try all of the innovative and creative cocktails available. For example, check out Blyth and Burrows' most popular drink, the SHIP CAPTAIN CREW. Owner Josh Miranda says this eight-ingredient smokey favorite is their most popular, containing Dandelion Bourbon, Clement Agricole, Smith & Cross Navy Strength Rum, Montenegro, Amontillado Sherry, Lemongrass, Spruce Tip, and Pecan Wood Smoke.

Portland is continuing to thrive, and showing no signs of stopping. So whether you're a local or just visiting, there's never been a better time to dive into Portland's amazing food and drink scene.