50 Best Cocktail Bars near Scarborough

“Our 1st experience was a great one, service was fantastic and the food was great especially the fries!“

“We really love this place. Stumbled on it by accident and now its one of our regular haunts when we are in Maine. The food is always delicious, we love trying new things they add. We love this restaurant and can't wait to be back.“

“Fresh delicious authentic mexican food served with a smile. We love our neighborhood restaurant without the chain restaurant feel. It's been a great addition to the Dunstan area....“

“Delicious whole belly fried clams!!“

“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!“

“Visited for a short stay in Portand. Went back twice in the same day! Atmosphere is stellar, service was amazing, and the drinks were handcrafted and absolutely delicious. We loved the versatility of the bartender, with a sweet smile and conversation. Will definitely be back!“

“The best…The new Peruvian comfort food menu & the drink menu is 11/10!“

“If you like Ginn you have to try this place!!“

“Great dive/ cocktail bar off the beaten path. Was recommended from a couple we’d met. And passing along the recommendation. Delicious espresso martini. One of the most amazing pretzels we’d ever had. And the Kraut dog, wow!!! Great place to stop by while on Portland“

“The owner/bartender makes the best cocktails I've had in Maine. His drinks are super balanced, authentic and presented well with a focus on early 20th century classics. The environment offers the best ambiance around with a lounge, outdoor deck and a ton of "vintage" game systems to play with. I would tell more people about it, but I'm afraid once word gets out there will be a line to get in and a cover charge. 10/10“

“Yes, yes and YES! From the corn bread, the spicy beef salad, whitefish beignet (special), kimchi and suckling pig, up to the key lime tart, everything was spot on. The small plates were staged well, (thank you Lauren B) and paired wonderfully so flavors didn’t compete. Cocktails were “Death Becomes Her” and “Unleash the Lion”, unique, well balanced and interesting. Thank you for warming us up on a cold Monday night. Apologies, but too busy enjoying the food and company to retrieve my phone for pics. Unplugged dinners are much better.“

“Ordered some Nippers off Etsy. Very tasty drinks. Shipping was very Quick and packaging well done. Only thing in would say is the nippers really Don’t make two full drinks unless you add more than the suggested alcoholic or a mixer. We will buy again just the larger sizes.“

“Just an excellent experience overall“

“This place is such a hidden gem in Portland. You may be quick to pass it since it's connected to the Hyatt hotel, but don't - absolute top notch bar tenders and incredible cocktails. I have not eaten here but the food does look good as well. If you like old fashions and/or manhattans, be sure to check this place out. I come here at least once for a drink every time i am in Portland.“

“Best martinis in Portland! It’s a must try if you’re in town. Chocolate salted caramel is my fav 🤤 but, you must ask for Miriam, she’ll take care of you!“

“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!!“

“I’ve always had good conversations with the bartenders when I come here! It’s been a bit since I’ve been able to stop by but it’s always on our list when in the Portland area!“

“Love it! So great! Amazing drinks!“

“We absolutely loved our dinner at Knotted Apron. The food was so delicious & inventive but more importantly the service was impeccable and made me feel like I was at home! ❤️ We will absolutely be back soon!“

“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!“

“The wife and I had an amazing time for my birthday. Dinner was perfect. Our bartender Mikey was attentive and entertaining. Highly recommend! 5 stars.“

“Second time here, and again so good! Can’t wait to come back!!“

“I live down in NYC and think about the desserts I have had here often. To simply put they are incredible and better than most places I’ve been too here. The Canale is especially a revelation. 10/10 would recommend“

“One of the best brunch spots in Portland Maine. And they do dinner!
From the gorgeous velvet booth seating, to the crispy potatoes and churros, the service, food and ambiance is outstanding. Our lovely server Coco and the FOH manager Leah create such a warm and welcoming experience.
Highlights are the horchata (get it half & half with cold brew for caffeine.) The churros are outstanding, potatoes are a must and you can’t go wrong with any of the main dishes.
Enjoy and don’t forget…tip your servers and bartenders 😘“

“Fantastic menu! I felt like I just walked into a glamorous pub in England when I saw the menu choices. The cocktail list is loaded with great drinks AND there are two happy hours daily! I had a delicious toasted cheese sandwich with bacon and tomato —so huge I could barely finish half. It came with a heap of perfectly fried hand cut potatoes. My sister got a lovely bowl of French onion soup to start and the steak frites as a main course. There was a big sliced steak done to perfection! We will return regularly! *****“

“Great food made on the premises, including homemade desserts and sourdough bread. Try the charcuterie plate with several cheese, fruit, nuts, bread and a rotating sliced meat. Or the grilled shrimp or tuna, both yummy. Cocktails, wine, espresso -- choices galore. gotta love the espresso martini, even a decaf one! Jazz or blues background music, no headbanger stuff. Relax and enjoy...“

“If you want fantastic service, amazing food and a really cool and comfy atmosphere, this is your place. My boyfriend and I drive twice a year to visit our favorite hotel and restaurant :) we truly cannot express how amazing this team is. We LOVE the lattes and Greek yogurt with homemade granola (it is our absolute favorite breakfast/brunch ever). It was so good that we asked to have the house granola sent to us and the Salt Yard team sent it immediately!

We also recommend the charcuterie board (excellent cheeses) & any of their drinks! They also have trivia on occasion!

If ever you’re in Portland, we highly encourage you to check out this spot. Whether you’re picking something up or staying for a bit, it’s truly a gem.“

“My partner and I celebrated my 50th and our 30 year anniversary there. They had a special table set for us. The food, drink and atmosphere was amazing. Their was a surprise birthday cake for me made by Ilma. Such a memorable experience. Only complaint is that there should've been like 30 of those deviled eggs....lol Thanks for the great meal and everlasting memories.“

“Warm and comfortable, lovely wine, friendly staff, and tasty food truck offerings.“

“Great venue, great staff. 10/10 would go every night!“

“Chill intimate environment. Fabulous community. Rotating local art. Fast friendly bar service. Excellent drinks, whether you want a cheap beer or a cocktail. Sober friendly with NA options. Everyone is welcome and treated with kindness. The End is a regular stop for me and I have all the respect for the guys behind it. Check them out! 🤘🏻“

“Great coffee, cozy and welcoming atmosphere. Plus awesome book selection!“

“Went for a lupper date with my husband on the referral of a friend. Had the Natalie house drink which was well balanced and bright for us gin lovers. Enjoyed thier spin on Poutine with a tater tots base. Lots of goo goodness with bacon and sausage. Sausage pizza with Vodka sauce had real Greek olives and was delicious. Will be back again!“

“Went during the day and got to sample 6 of their mixed drinks. The guy behind the bar told us the Boston Tea Party drink was selling out and wouldn’t return, which was too bad because it was the best one on the menu. Everything else, unfortunately, was just okay.

It was really nice they let us bring in outside food! And if you order food and eat there they will give you $2off your drink order.

Parking was easy. The staff were friendly. The space is really cool. They drinks were just alright.“

“pop up with Meet on the Street last night. Prix Fixe four course menu 😋. Food was outstanding, service…outstanding. Drinks?? Always outstanding! The gondola in the bar is always a fun little spot to sit. Such a great space on Wharf St, especially when the snow is falling. Food is warm and lovely, and the staff is always happy to see you. 100/10.“

“Absolutely love Aloft, first time staying at this hip Hotel on Commercial St , in Old Port, best walk in shower ever,,, perfect location. Front desk receptionists were over the top in being helpful. Priced right for winter season“

“We were there at the Regency for a 2 day conference and this was very convenient for us with a short lunch break. The food came fast and was very good. It was a beautiful day and very pleasant. The noise level was what I expected for a summer day in the Old Port with the background music blocking most noise.“

“The best seafood I have ever had. Fresh! Hand breaded! Delicious! 🦞🍤🦀“

“Best food I ate in Portland all week (including upscale places) was the lobster bisque from Chef Ryan. Oysters were GREAT as well. Family friendly. Chef Ryan’s whole menu was top notch and the kitchen staff was so nice. Ty came up and offered to give my young kids a lobster lesson over FaceTime (was here for work). Lizzy was excellent at the bar for our group. Ashley was amazing and welcoming to our group. Couldn’t recommend more. But def order the menu items and not just the lobster!“

“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.“

“Portland is a food city, with tons of amazing options. If you're looking for a real treat, Tipo is a neighborhood place off the peninsula with some of the best food in the city. Never disappoints. Seasonal specials and fresh ingredients. Great atmosphere. Great staff.“

“This is my absolute favorite place in town. The atmosphere is so pleasant whether on a quiet winter night or a bustling Friday evening. Drinks are incredible, and though pricey, not any more expensive than other spots in town (which is impressive for a hotel bar). The main reason we come here is the staff. They are so friendly and come up with the most amazing cocktails. Sheila, Mena, John, and Sammy can do no wrong!“

“We had our wedding at Grace, and I’m still speechless when I think about it. The venue itself is so unique and absolutely stunning — it truly speaks for itself. But what made the experience even more special was the incredible team behind it. Kate and her staff went above and beyond to accommodate our large wedding and made the entire day smoother and even more beautiful than we could have ever imagined. Every detail was handled with care, and their professionalism and kindness did not go unnoticed — they made us feel supported from start to finish. I honestly wish we could do it all over again. If you're looking for a breathtaking venue with an exceptional team, Grace is the one. Cannot recommend enough!“

“Our Valentine's dinner at Union was delicious! If I could give 4.5 stars I would. Service was excellent: prompt and available when needed without being overbearing or disruptive. The atmosphere is very nice, a mix of brutalist lines and natural materials, and managed to keep volume levels low.
The food was excellent - good portion sizes that left us pleasantly full without being overstuffed and didn't feel overpriced for what we got. We chose the Prix Fixe Valentine's menu and both loved our entrées. My husband's scallops were perfectly cooked, and the delicata squash that came with my cod was some of the best I've had.
Drinks were good, with a diverse menu that had something for everyone. We both enjoyed our cocktails and they complimented the meal nicely.“

“This might be the best overall bourbon list I have ever seen at an establishment. Prices were reasonable as well. I just wished they opened earlier than 4pm. Burger next door at Rigby is 5 stars.“

“Fire pizza service everything about this place is awesome if you haven’t tried not tried it your losing out amazing food get some“

“What a nice place with great tasting food and shakes! We will be back to try different menu items!!“

“Visited Saturday night. Delicious food at good prices. Great service. Relaxed atmosphere.“

“An absolute gem in the heart of the old port. The margaritas are the best in all of Portland and served by the friendliest / warmest locals around. Not enough space to talk about the divine cuisine. ¡Salud!“

“Small menu but very good options of interesting and delicious plates. The avocado crudo, charred cabbage salad and the cod were fantastic. The desserts... Charred corn ice cream and the Peruvian dark chocolate cake - WOW! Nice list of tequilas and interesting cocktails.“