📍Portland, ME Restaurant to try!
I moved to Maine from Massachusetts a few months ago, so I decided to be a tourist in my new home state and try this pretty popular spot! The summer time in Portland is crazy, so it was nice being able to enjoy the city in the downtime of the winter.
This restaurant was super small but so good. Everything here is homemade and made with local ingredients which I love!!
🍅 Tomato and fennel soup with grilled cheese croutons: 10/10 - this was absolutely delicious on this cold January day. The soup was creamy and had amazing flavor, and the croutons were salty and crispy bites that added so much to the soup.
🍟 The Duck fat fries: 10/10 - these are hand cut and fried in duck fat. They were so crispy and perfectly seasoned. They have homemade sauces to dip the fries in too so we got truffle ketchup and horseradish mayo. Truly some of the best fries I’ve ever had and I love that I didn’t feel gross after eating them like I do with fries that are cooked in canola oil.
🥤 Milkshakes: 9/10 - I got the “original” milkshake which is their special and it was a vanilla bean and tahini shake. It was good, but honestly like any other vanilla milkshake. My fiancé got the homemade cookies and cream shake and that was soooo good. It had chunks of homemade chocolate cookie pieces in the vanilla ice cream and it was unreal. The bits were so chocolatey and blew Oreos out of the water.
If I go again I think I want to try their duck fat sea salt caramel shake.
Overall my experience was amazing! The place was so small and cozy, staff was super nice, and the food was delicious and you could just tell how fresh and homemade each item is.
Where else should I try in Portland while being a tourist in my new home state?
After my amazing experience at Duckfat, I've been eager to dive deeper into Portland, ME's incredible food scene. If you're a first-time visitor or even a new resident like me, you quickly realize this city is a culinary paradise! Beyond those legendary duck fat fries and delicious poutine (which, by the way, Duckfat's menu highlights as a must-try!), there's so much more to explore. Of course, you can't come to Maine without indulging in some fresh seafood. Forget everything you think you know about lobster – here, it's an art form. From classic lobster rolls, both warm buttered and cold mayo-dressed, to steamed whole lobsters right off the boat, the flavor is unparalleled. I've heard great things about Eventide Oyster Co. for their innovative small plates and, of course, their oysters. Another local favorite for a more traditional lobster shack experience is Luke's Lobster, usually found right on the working waterfront, giving you that authentic Maine vibe. But Portland's food scene isn't just about seafood. The city boasts an impressive array of innovative restaurants and cozy cafes. For breakfast or brunch, places like Holy Donut are famous for their unique potato donuts – a true Maine staple. Trust me, these aren't your average donuts. And if you're looking for a hearty start to your day, many local diners offer classic American breakfast fare with a Maine twist. For a different kind of comfort food, Portland has some fantastic Italian spots, often highlighting fresh, local produce. And for those who enjoy a good brew with their meal, the craft beer scene here is booming, with many breweries offering delicious pub food to complement their extensive tap lists. Exploring Portland's culinary landscape is an adventure in itself. My tip for visitors: walk as much as you can! Many of the best eateries are tucked away on charming side streets. Also, keep an eye out for seasonal specials – Maine's bounty changes with the seasons, and chefs here are masters at incorporating fresh, local ingredients into their dishes. And if you're visiting in the peak summer season, definitely make reservations, especially for popular spots. Whether you're craving those hand-cut Belgian frites, a creamy bowl of tomato and fennel soup, or a refreshing milkshake, Duckfat is just the beginning. Portland, ME truly offers a 'must-eat' experience for every palate, making it an ideal destination for food lovers looking for authentic, homemade deliciousness.
