As the largest city in Maine, Portland attracts a wide variety of visitors throughout the year, many of them looking to take advantage of the city's highly touted food industry. Called "America's Foodiest Small Town" by Bon Appetit magazine, Portland offers several five-star restaurants that appeal to food-lovers everywhere.
Located on the rustic Wharf Street, Street and Company provides fresh, local seafood in an intimate environment. The restaurant contains a full bar with numerous cocktails available, as well as an excellent wine menu with choices from around the world. The food is cooked with a minimal of oils and additives. For those looking for a little something special, the Lobster Diavlo is a treat. Meant for two, the Lobster Diavlo is one of the best meals on the menu. Outdoor seating is available. Reservations are recommended.
Street and Company
33 Wharf St.
Portland, ME 04101
207-775-0887
streetandcompany.net
The Green Elephant is an Asian-cuisine influenced vegetarian restaurant. Serving vegetarian food in a casual environment, the Green Elephant is enjoyed by both vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. With their Thai-flavored menu, available for dinner and lunch, as well as a dessert menu that is amazing, there is a bit of something for everyone. The peanut curry comes with the highest of recommendations as does the fried banana with vegetarian ice cream. Beer and wine are served at the restaurant. Take out is available for those who wish to dine at home. The Green Elephant is closed on Mondays.
The Green Elephant Vegetarian Bistro
608 Congress St.
Portland, ME 04101
207-347-3111
greenelephantmaine.com
Situated in the Old Port section of Portland, Food Factory Miyake is an excellent Japanese restaurant specializing in fresh sushi. Considered something of a diamond in the rough due to its unassuming appearance from the outside, Miyake is known for its excellent scallop and baked lobster dishes. All plates are small and are easily shared, allowing for groups to eat family-style. Reservations are available for parties from two to six. Miyake soon will be taking reservations on Open Table as well. It is open Tuesday through Saturday for lunch and dinner.
Food Factory Miyake
129 Spring St.
Portland, ME 04101
207-871-9170
foodfactorymiyake.com
As the winner of the 2009 Wine Spectator Award of Excellence, Fifty Five-Five features food by Chef Steve Corry. Featuring a full bar and a menu featuring a variety of flavors, as well as a taster menu, Fifty Five-Five takes pride in the taste of its food. Best known for its lobster mac 'n' cheese, the restaurant is open daily and has brunch every Sunday. Thursday nights feature an oyster night with drink specials. A private dining and group rate is available.
Fifty Five-Five
555 Congress St.
Portland, ME 04101
207-761-0555
fivefifty-five.com