New American Restaurants near South Portland, ME

“Very limited lunch menu but the chicken pesto pita pocket was delish. Ordinary shoestring fries followed a tasty appetizer of fried cauliflower. No regular ranch dressing for dipping available. Nothing intriguing enough for a repeat visit.“

“Every time I go to a new city I try to find a nice place to have a cigar and relax. This place is JUST the spot for that. You can have coffee or liquors depending on what you want with your cigar, and the people are lovely. Wonderful atmosphere and the perfect way to kick off a vacation.“

“Best part: If you squeeze in between the desk and chair, you can sit on the floor right next to the (floor to ceiling) window, and it's like sitting on the edge of a cliff looking out over the Turnpike. The noise level is well-controlled, and it's quite peaceful looking at cars and trucks roll by from six stories high. Needs to be high room on the back of the West tower for this effect. Quietest a/c / air system in any hotel I've stayed in, and the controls were pretty legible. Bed was comfy and slept well. Some mystery spots on the coverlet. If you're a DIY type, take along a scraper and some paint and you can fix the peeling paint in the bathroom. Stay away from the breakfast, if you're not used to a mass-market diet, either way you'll do just as well at McDonald's. 'Fridge is useful if you want to lightly freeze things. If you want the good ol' days of a freshly-made bed every day, get on it immediately. We waited til day 3, and despite obediently ordering 24 hrs in advance, chaos still ruled when we returned at 6 pm. The same fellow running check-in eventually arrived with a few towels; we decided he was probably running the whole place on his own that night.“

“Fantastic experience as always. Service was fantastic as was our meal. Across a table of 7 of us, we probably sampled a good 50% of the menu and we all loved everything. Quick atmosphere note: Be prepared for a quite vibrant burning wood smell, particularly if you are seated for the first meal service ~5pm. The wood smell starts to "smooth out" after an hour or so. I say this because my daughter initially found the wood smell in the restaurant to be a little over-powering but after ~30-45 minutes remarked that it was much more subdued and pleasant.“

“Impossibly wonderful food and vibe! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️“

“We had such a delicious meal at Scales! Everything was presented beautifully and tasted excellent. Service was on-point and the atmosphere is super chic. I would recommend this restaurant to everyone in the Portland area!“

“This was one of the better restaurants we have ever been to. Our server was the most professional and friendly server I can ever recall - we mentioned to each other a couple of times how great she was. The food was hands down awesome. If we make it back to Portland someday, we will be making reservations here again.“

“Absolutely amazing! Each time we visit I am reminded of why it’s my favorite restaurant ever - the food, the service and the atmosphere are all top notch, every time! Thank you!“

“Last month our flight to Portland was delayed a considerable amount of time due to weather issues and it looked as though we would not be able to make our 5p.m. reservation. My daughter called from the tarmac in Boston where we were rerouted and refueled and explained the situation. The hostess, Susie, was very understanding and compassionate And said that even though our table was booked for another party a 7, we should come in and she would see what she could do. We got there late but Susie greeted us warmly and told us not to worry about being rushed that she had arranged things so no one would be inconvenienced. The atmosphere was warm and cozy; the food so very delicious and our waitperson, Anika, was the best. Atmosphere, impeccable service, food and warmth all rate 5 stars and another visit next time we are in Portland.“

“Awesome fries with lots of sauces“

“My first time at Jordan’s Farm U Pick. So many strawberries in the field!!! Very friendly staff. Went to the farm market after, nice set up. So many things to choose from. Got fresh lettuce, cucumbers and multiple varieties of radish. Should have grabbed the snap peas. Will be going back for sure.“

“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.“

“We had a lovely dinner a few nights ago at Wayside with our delightful server (sorry, I didn't learn her name). However, our (and our neighboring table) were disturbed by a very loud party of 5 '(birthday group) with no consideration of fellow diners. I understand that Wayside has no control over the behavior of the rude, but it's disappointing to have an enjoyable evening spoiled by the behavior of fellow diners.“

“We stopped in unexpected as we were driving around. We received such a warm reception and were seated immediately. All the food was amazing and delicious. It’s the little things that matter…great coffee, variety of creamers and sweeteners and very attentive service. We’ll be back and recommend when asked for brunch locations.“

“My husband, MIL, and myself were visiting Maine all the way from NC and came here TWICE during our visit. First was brunch, then dinner. Both meals were exceptional. Our waitress(I wish I could remember her name, but she has long, red hair), gave the best service I have ever experienced in my life! This will definitely be a spot we must visit everytime we come up ❤️“

“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“

“Wonderful service and excellent food!“

“If you have not eaten here it is a must. Make sure to ask for Sarah as she is a phenomenal waitress.“

“The best seafood, great service and setting.“

“Great cocktails, food, and atmosphere! We will be back!“

“Ate here for the first time tonight it was so good! Server Matt was great! My husband and I both had the chicken Marsala, it was soooo good!!! Mouth watering every bite! 10/10 best place we’ve ate at!“

“Every dish was fantastic!“

“Nonesuch has been one of our favorite sports since it opened. This evening we had a party of 12 for my son’s 8th birthday (his choice of location). Even though they don’t take reservations, we called ahead on Thursday to let them know we would have a big group coming. We waited just a couple of minutes for the table, our food and drinks were amazing and the service was fantastic. We have some particular eaters in our party and all were very happy. This experience made me love Nonesuch that much more as I can fully appreciate that serving a big group this well is not easy! Thank you to our server and the team tonight!“

“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.“

“Nice place, good beer choices and the smash burger was great. Little bit of rain didn’t stop the server from coming outside to serve us with our dog. Thanks again for enduring the rain!“

“Cocktails were not our favorite. The jalapeño margarita was bitter didn’t taste good. Enjoyed the hummus good price point generous portion. Cozy lounge good music and plenty of seating available. Nice ambiance and excellent customer service.“

“Amazing from start to finish ~ love the decor and everything we tried was delicious 🦩“

“Our Garden Suite was awesome! Super comfortable and well appointed, awesome soaking tub, the nicest robes, great views and quick walk to the beach. Loved how dog friendly it is. Dog bowls, dog blanket, dog towel, ball, poopie bags and a giant biscuit greeted our pup. Dogs are even allowed in the tavern. Hot chocolate and cookies in the lobby at night. Chocolates in the room. Free use of the steam room and experience shower in the spa for guests. Staff is great! That’s just to name a few things that makes the Inn by the Sea great! We can’t wait to go back!“

“Mediterranean salad with salmon was delicious and vegetables were very fresh,

Bufffalo tenders were a bit mushy but still tasted good.

Server seemed off put when I asked her to wipe down the dirty table upon sitting down.“

“What a great find! Booked a table after reading the reviews. The meal was perfect, the new to us cocktail was potent and delicious, the servers were amazing, the owner was gracious. Thank you Barb, Dot and Dawn. We will be returning next year at the same time to celebrate my 70th!! Seems it will only allow 1 picture.“

“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.“

“I loved the place and the good. Great service and atmosphere too. Joe from Virginia Beach.“

“karaoke Wednesday and Thursday nights. Very chill people to hang around with, my favorite place in town to have some beers!“

“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.“

“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“

“Went for the music, stayed for the laughs. Fun place. Chowder was delicious. Us Minnesotains were not so sure on the brown ketchup though 😆“

“The best seafood, great service and setting.“

“Rivalries is one of our go-to spots for great food, a welcoming vibe, and catching the game in a fun atmosphere. Whether we’re meeting friends, unwinding after a long day of moves, or grabbing lunch during the workday, the experience is always solid.

The menu hits the mark every time—fresh, consistent, and with plenty of options. The staff is friendly and efficient, and the space has just the right mix of comfort and energy.

As a local business ourselves, we appreciate places like Rivalries that continue to deliver a great experience, time and time again.

— S.B. Taylor Transport“

“I LOVE that DTL is requiring proof of vaccines to enter!! Keep up the great work!! I prefer to not drink/dine in the company of antivaxxers :)“

“I come specifically to Old Orchard Beach every year just to eat at The Bell Buoy. They serve the best seafood and are very closely located to the pier and beach. You can’t go wrong with anything on the menu, but the lobster is a huge selling point. Friendly staff, great food, good service, and a mere walking distance from many of the other attractions. I cannot recommend this place enough, and hope it remains open forever.“

“Have always loved Bayside Bowl, but their parking situation is a disappointment. Admittedly it was clearly my fault for not paying attention to the parking signs, but my car was towed yesterday from the premises and I was charged $260 cash to retrieve my car from Riverside Street in Portland. It was my birthday and we were celebrating first at Batson River and then we planned to go to Bayside's rooftop deck to continue our evening's celebrations. After leaving the distillery, after only one hour, I was shocked to see that my car had been towed away. Again, my fault. Please be mindful of the parking signs if you visit this establishment. The money charged for an accidental parking violation is greedily exorbitant and predatory in my opinion. I hope that the owner is not profiting from this, and if he or she is, I hope they are putting the money towards a good community cause to better the Portland Bayside neighborhood.“

“Food is fantastic, and the staff is very kind and accommodating!“

“I am sure Councilman Dion and Mrs Dion were just having an off night - my wife and Granddaughter and I had dinner on Friday night and my veal parmigiana was awesome and my wife’s asparagus and Gorgonzola ravioli was as great ! Jim our waiter must have lit the table candle 50 times for my granddaughter to keep blowing it out ! Brunos rocks !“

“Burt was our server and helped us make excellent choices. Nachos were delicious for an appetizer. My dirty martini was just right! My husband had grilled salmon and I had broiled haddock which were both perfect! Easy to get seated. I would definitely recommend to anyone visiting the Freeport /Yarmouth area.“

“The prices are reasonable and economic. Good option if you are staying in the holiday inn by the bay and you don’t want to walk in the evening. Good quantity and quality of food here. The menu is small but the service and atmosphere is very good.“

“One of our favorite places, nice laid back atmosphere with couches & bookcases, reasonably priced beers, and located at the entrance to Portland’s wonderful West End. They serve a great Beyond burger, as well as a black bean burger. They also have a number of other nice options including vegan cheese pizzas, chili, and chili cheese fries! Updated from previous review on 2024-06-25“

“Came to Dockside Grill for our first dinner in Maine and were seated quickly (had reservations). The drinks were great, and the food was delicious — the Caesar salad with scallops was absolutely amazing.

Of course, we had to try the Bang Bang Shrimp and the chowder — both lived up to the hype and did not disappoint.

Overall, it was a great experience. While the service was a little slow, the place was packed — so just be patient and enjoy the time with family and friends.

Definitely recommend checking this place out — and don’t miss the Lobster Grilled Cheese!“