17 Best Cocktail Bars in Portland

“We popped into Central Provisions today on our stay in Portland and I was blown away by this restaurant. It was a very intimate, beautiful space with amazing flavor. Our server, Andy, made the experience. They were very kind and made dining with an allergy a breeze. Do not skip Central Provisions when you come to Portland!

Dietary restrictions: Their allergen menu is wildly helpful. It's color coded and makes it very clear what is and is not safe, and whether or not an allergen can be removed from the dish. I have a severe nut allergy and I felt completely safe eating here.“

“My favorite cocktail bar got more cozy. We love Portland Hunt and Alpine but have moved away from Portland but love returning for a white noise, green eyes and other cocktails. We heard they changed ownership and were pleasantly surprised of the cozy remodel, cute napkins and same great menu and service.“

“A cute and welcoming bar on Congress, Jewel has a moody and ethereal feel with blue and pink lights, murals of a french riverside, and eclectic decorations.

The drinks are on a rotation and are usually a good mix of daring new drinks and classic crowd pleasers (usually centered around a theme such as Tarot, the Sailor Scouts, or other touchstones).

There is one bar area with 10 or so stools, with an additional couple of seating areas near the windows and edges.

They regularly host events like viewing nights, Karaoke, costume events and more.

All in all Jewel is a fun and laid back local bar, great for quiet conversation with friends.“

“Just finished one of the BEST Italian meals ive ever had in my restaurant going life in a place id never have expected to and thats saying something being a 1st Generation Italian coming from NY ! ViA VECCHiA is Portland, Maine was absolutely 10/10 on everything they did! We started with Meatballs, Whipped Ricotta & Grilled Octopus. The meatballs reminded me of my mothers, the ricotta was tremendous with truffle honey & sesame breadsticks and the octopus was grilled perfectly. One dish was better than the next. We shared ravioli with as an entree and we never felt gross like we ate too much. The portion sizes were PERFECT. Wrapped the night off with a espresso infused cheesecake over salted caramel. Wow. Staff was incredibly accommodating, professional and polite. Service was excellent! If youre ever in Portland, ME you must go get a meal here!“

“Went for Oyster Social/Happy Hour they do on Wednesdays after a local recommended I try…had a little bit of everything and some punch. I’m not easy to impress. It was DIVINE!!! Delicious fresh seafood, excellent quality, great drinks, just a very nice experience I wish I were local to attend every week! Highly recommend!“

“Had brunch at this restaurant and it was fantastic!! The atmosphere in the hotel is cute. It used to be the newspaper building, so they carried this theme through. They have vintage typewriters on the wall in the lobby, so cute. Our server, Anna, was so sweet and kind! Food was sooooooo good. I would highly recommend this place. This is off the beaten path in Portland, it’s not in the port area, but the walk is so pretty to get to it. You can go up to exchange street, with so many cute shops. Definitely worth the short walk, especially if you’re there on a Sunday and all the other brunch places by the port have 45 minute waits.“

“What a great place to discover!! One of my new favorites! Loved the cool vibe, incredible food, and special cocktails! Can’t wait to go back!!“

“The espresso Martini and the Salted Caramel Martini were divine! The desserts are also to die for. During my visit, my partner and I shared the creme brulee and the chocolate tart with berries - they were light but decadent and paired perfectly with our martinis!“

“Cozy and inviting dining rooms. The food was delicious, every plate from chicory salad, bread asparagus and the entrees! All were absolutely delicious. Just as important were the staff. So so friendly and happy. You can tell they all really like working here and value every detail. Would highly recommend this place for date night!“

“Just an excellent experience overall“

“Great brunch spot. The mimosas were delicious. Food was great! I recommend the huevos Ocotillo and Clark Street Eggs Benedict. Churros were an awesome choice for dessert! Busy atmosphere and super friendly and helpful bartender. We will definitely be back.“

“"Prepare for a sweet symphony of flavors at Gross Confection Bar! This place is truly the icing on the cake when it comes to dessert destinations. From their decadent chocolate creations to their fruity delights, every bite is a spoonful of happiness. The staff are as warm as freshly baked cookies, always ready to sprinkle some extra sweetness on your experience. So, if you're craving a treat that's a cut above the rest, head to Gross Confection Bar and let the dessert magic unfold!"“

“Fabulous crafted cocktails! Great small plates! Wonderful staff!“

“Great brunch alternative, especially if you tried to go to Becky’s and it was too wild there. Great menu and the coffee is exceptional. What really really set this place apart is that the Jam they make here might be the best jam I’ve ever had. It’s truly next level, tried to buy it, but they make it fresh here lol“

“Todd in the back lounge is the kindest, most talented bartender around. His cocktails are top notch and he is completely dedicated to his guests’ experience. We spend a lot of time at the Press Hotel and have personally witnessed him treating every guest with respect, class and above and beyond service.“

“I booked the Tea Party at the Regency with Stephan. I was given a coloring menu earlier in the month while visiting a friend, her daughter and baby at the outdoor cafe. I asked the bartender about the Tea Party and then she had Stephan explain it to me. I We arrived 7/26/25 at 2:00. Our party consisted of 4 adults, 4 children and a baby. I was greeted by Stephan and the server. They had our table ready with pretty tea cups and napkins. The families arrived dressed all pretty for a tea party. We ordered tea, champagne and lady bug coffee for children. We ordered the tiers of food and the adults and children had a fine time drinking tea and tasting tea sandwiches. The food was great. The children were served lobster shaped watermelon. The best ! The whole experience was spectacular Thank you to all We learned about manners, etiquette and drinking and eating like a young lady. One little thing you might change on the menu When looking at the Champagne bottles pricing It was a bit confusing on the amount and the pricing. Thank you all a lovely experience for ladies and young ladies to share. Regards, Kathy“

“We got there at 9:05 pm, they had just closed. But....they let our party of eight in anyways. Food was great and so was the service. Thanks Boones!“