Portland, ME has become a tourist destination to not just New Englanders wanting to take a day trip up the coast but is becoming a vacation hot spot for many people all over the country. Sure, as soon as you get to Maine you want to indulge in all the lobster and clam bakes the state has to offer but there are other things in this city that makes it even more wonderful. From shopping to baked goods, the following Portland staples will make you want to come here during your next summer adventure!
1. Holy Donut
If you haven't heard of Holy Donut yet, then where have you been? Made fresh daily, these Maine potato flour donuts (yes you read that right, POTATO) are so well known that many people are waiting to wait in line for a long time in order to get their hands on these. Popular flavors include dark chocolate sea salt and maple bacon as well as gluten free and vegan options.
2. Breweries
Portland is also known for its popular breweries that have made names for themselves in the northeast. Companies like Allagash, Bissell Brothers, and Austin Street have all become Portland staples as well as brewery/restaurant locations like Foulmouthed and Sebago Brewing have become popular to not just tourists but locals as well.
3. Coffee Shops
Every urban area has that one coffee shop that everyone raves about. In this case, there are a few in the city that make people say "YUM" when you mention these household names. Bard Coffee, Arabica, Coffee by Design, and Tandem Coffee are three of the most popular coffee shops in the greater Portland area and attract a big following with locals and tourists. In the summer, you'll find the line outside Tandem's shop just for their delicious malt iced coffee paired well with their famous breakfast sandwiches and baked goods. Bard Coffee, located right in the heart of the Old Port, is known for their lattes - hot or iced! Coffee by Design is a Portland staple and can be found, not just in their own coffee hubs, but in any Maine restaurant when you want to order coffee with your meal. They also sell whole bean coffee right in the grocery stores. Arabica coffee
4. Boutiques
So what do we have so far: donuts, beer, and coffee, but what about the shopping? Portland is also filled with many places to shop. While downtown Portland continues to grow with high-end franchises like Anthropologie and Lululemon, local boutiques like Bobbles and Lace and Bliss have been keeping up with the latest trends and fashion.
5. Restaurant Scene
So yes, lobster is pretty much on the menu at almost any restaurant in Portland but aside from seafood, Portland is starting to grow in their selection of places to eat. From European to Asian cuisines, places like Petite Jacqueline, Empire Chinese Kitchen, and Duckfat have become a must for many locals and tourists. In recent years, city favorites like Korean BBQ have started to make their way to Portland that way many Mainers don't need to travel all the way to Boston for good Asian food. Korean fusion restaurant N to Tail have made a name for themselves by being one of the only KBBQ places in the greater Portland area.
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