45 Best Cocktail Bars near South Portland

“Went there for New Years Eve at the new location. They told us it was going be at least a 45 minute wait and we were ok with that. Host took our phone number and added us on the wait list on his tablet. Took a seat out by the host stand and waited. Another couple came in about 15 minutes after us, also a party of two, and the same host told them it was going be a wait and they took a seat next to us. Even though we had been there 15 minutes longer and greeted by same host with tablet, he forgot about us and seated them first. Even though we were waiting right next to them and he looked right at us when he came to tell them to follow him to a table. We finally just got a seat at the bar. We ordered appetizers, two rounds of drinks and dinner. Again told it was going be a wait because kitchen was backed up. That was fine. Got our drinks and appetizers. Then my girlfriend’s entrée finally came out but they forgot to bring mine! I thought it would be out in a few minutes, but after 1o more minutes waiting for my food I finally inquired, and they had somehow forgotten my entrée. They comp’d one round of drinks. Love the new location. Love the food. But we chose the wrong night to go! I’ve never gone out to eat and ordered the food and had them forget to bring my entrée out.. By the time I got my dinner my girlfriend was done with her food. Just asked them to bag it for take-away. Still tipped 20% as I’ve worked twenty years in resturants. Kind of disappointed with New Years Eve dinner. Took the night off early to go have a nice meal and they forgot my meal!“

“10/10. Beautiful location with an amazing menu. My 5 year old rates the clam chowder “1000 and some numbers out of ten”. Definitely recommend!“

“Just had your dumpling sampler. So delicious! I was filled up when I finished. But I didn’t want to take the last bite, because I didn’t want the joy to end. Will definitely return soon! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️“

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

“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!“

“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.“

“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!“

“TL;DR: best cocktail bar we tried in Portland, with great service, fun vibes and the most amazing drinks!

We almost walked past the door to this place which made me like it immediately - it's on a busy alleyway with a bunch of other bars and restaurants and has a nondescript entrance. It doesn't try hard at all and that is what sold me on the place.

It's very divey looking on the inside, and has super fun decor and played rock music amongst other things. The service was extremely friendly, helpful and fast and our server was so friendly. The drinks were really well executed and the furthest from divey I've ever tasted! The bathroom is fun - check it out when you're there. Their menu has great aesthetics and very fun to read.

One of the bartenders is a bartender I've seen featured on the Food52 channel so I was feeling very positive about our drinks. And they were... So. Good. And very reasonably priced after drinking through bars in NYC and SF.

Aviation: I loved the addition of pomegranate and cardamom. This is one of my favorite drinks and I loved their take on it.
Espresso martini: ridiculously good - they need to bottle that salty coconut foam and sell it
Pimms Cup: extremely well balanced and not too sweet, this was so refreshing
Oaxacan Old fashioned: not as smokey as expected since they had both mezcal and tequila, and the chili demerara added a nice kick

We got seated right away after an early dinner. But the bar got packed very quickly, though they also had seats outdoors. The bar serves food too but we didn't try anything.“

“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.“

“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.“

“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 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!“

“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!"“

“Great hang and no pretense! Hoping they reprise the Thanksgiving Day late nite reboot this year! Henry’s is great anytime of year, but there’s nothing better than the late nite Thanksgiving dinner on a sandwich, with drinks and a “green tea” chaser! Cheers!“

“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“

“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.“

“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.“

“Love this place! Great owner, great food and cocktails (and generous happy hour offerings!) and it fills a critical need in this neighborhood for a laid back, easy place to grab a reasonably priced bite/drink — without the typical sports or dive bar ambiance.“

“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...“

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

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

“An atmosphere that should be sought after by any and all. Between excellent food (I’m a pad Thai person) and excellent service you cannot go wrong. I will always stop here, and you can’t convince me otherwise. I wish I could get everyone to come here so the family is overloaded with the knowledge that they are truly the best.“

“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!“

“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“

“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.“

“Great value! Awesome drinks! Comfortable seating. 🤘🏼“

“Was there on Friday afternoon 12/27. A great atmosphere, a moody speakeasy vibe. The three bartenders were awesome!!“

“Grace in Portland, Maine, is a venue that blends historic charm with modern elegance, offering a truly unique setting for weddings and special events. Housed in a beautifully restored former church, Grace combines soaring cathedral ceilings, original stained-glass windows, and a stunning mezzanine, creating an awe-inspiring atmosphere that leaves a lasting impression. It easily lends itself to a bouquet toss.

The staff at Grace is nothing short of phenomenal. Their attention to detail and commitment to creating a seamless event experience make planning stress-free. They go above and beyond to accommodate every request and ensure the day unfolds perfectly.

The food is another highlight. Their catering team delivers an impressive menu that pairs elevated flavors with fresh, local ingredients. Guests raved about the inventive dishes and impeccable presentation. See the Lobster Rangoon at this Maine wedding shot by JMorr Photo

What sets Grace apart is its ability to feel both grand and intimate. Whether hosting a large wedding or a smaller, more private celebration, the venue can adapt beautifully. The combination of breathtaking architecture and exceptional service makes Grace a top-tier choice for any couple looking for a one-of-a-kind experience in the heart of Portland.“

“Very cool seafood shack on the water with a fresh seafood market and counter bar. Servers were all super friendly. Clams and shrimp were super tender and their chowder is fantastic too. Even on a semi cloudy day in the 60s before beach season really hits it was still pretty full up so I'd recommend doing reservations if you're going to be here in the next few months on weekends. Will definitely return on our next trip to OOB.“

“This place is the definition of real food done right. Everything on the plate is fresh, intentional, and full of flavor-no filler, no fluff. You can actually taste the quality. It’s beautiful, flavorful food that hits differently. The kind of place that makes you want to slow down and enjoy each and every bite.“

“service and food was fantastic. Thanks to Jess and the staff for helping us pull off a great rainy day adventure. Highlights: broccolini and fried mozzarella apps (two different things), the fennel sausage pizza, and the Margherita pizza. the campanelle pasta dish also got high marks at our table. Will be back.“

“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.“

“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 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.“

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

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

“REGARDS is an amazing restaurant with unique dishes that I have never seen before. Where else can you get hamachi collar? Everything we ordered, from the burrata with salsa verde and country bread to the tamale with macadamia mole was balanced, delicious, and special. I wish I had more time in Portland to eat there again. The staff is also very friendly and knowledgeable. I let them know that my wife was vegetarian when making the reservation and the hostess noted all the dishes that were vegetarian and what could be modified. A very beautiful place. I'm grateful that I knew about it“

“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!“