Portland is one of my favorite destinations in New England, perfect for either a quick day trip or a leisurely weekend getaway. Matching its renowned culinary offerings, Portland’s bar scene is equally impressive, catering to every taste. From cozy wine bars and sophisticated cocktail spots to innovative breweries, this guide highlights a few of my personal favorites. Dive into my curated list of the best bars in Portland, Maine, and discover where to enjoy some truly memorable drinks.
- Friends & Family Wine Bar
- Novare Res Bier Cafe
- Blyth & Burrows
- Rigby Yard
- Liquid Riot
- Shipyard Brewing Company
- Restaurants with excellent drink options
- Why is a bar or brewery that I love not on this list?
- Final thoughts on the best bars in Portland
- Pin this post on the best bars in Portland, Maine for later
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Friends & Family Wine Bar
When you step into Friends & Family Wine Bar, you’re greeted by a space that’s as inviting as it is beautiful. This spot is a wine lover’s paradise. You can choose to purchase a bottle of wine to take home and try later or grab a seat and taste some wine by the glass or a bottle to share.
I personally recommend getting here before dinner if you like a more relaxed vibe. We got there right after they opened and enjoyed some of the calm before the rush.
I suggest chatting with the bartender and asking about the wines that currently excite them. They’re usually more than willing to share, and you might get to taste a few options before deciding on your drink. I enjoyed some unique and playful wines during my visit.
Need a snack or even a meal? This bar also has some great food options. Or, check out some of the best vegetarian-friendly restaurants in Portland.
Pro tip: If you’re solo or up for some conversation, the bar seating is perfect. I spent a few delightful hours there, making new friends and enjoying great conversation with the bartender and my fellow wine sippers.
Novare Res Bier Cafe
If you’re craving a good craft beer, Novare Res Bier Cafe should definitely be on your itinerary. After all, trying craft beer is one of best things to do in Portland.
It’s not just any beer spot; it’s a curated experience of Maine’s finest brews, all in one place. In warmer months, grab a seat at one of their colorful outdoor tables. I tried the ‘Dieu du Ciel!’—an imperial stout with fair trade coffee—and it was absolutely heavenly.
Blyth & Burrows
If a sophisticated cocktail experience is what you seek, Blyth & Burrows will not disappoint. Truly one of the best cocktail bars in Portland! The front houses a classy cocktail bar, and there’s a speakeasy-style room at the back. The ambiance perfectly captures the essence of a refined, bygone era. The mixologists are true artists, crafting inventive and thoughtful drinks.
If you only have one day in Portland, I highly recommend making sure this spot is on your list!
Unsure what to order? They’re fantastic at making recommendations tailored to your preferences.
This is a great spot for an intimate group of friends or a date night. I wouldn’t suggest this spot for large crowds.
Rigby Yard
Rigby Yard boasts a selection of 20 beers on tap, set in a beautifully designed space complete with a cozy fireplace. It’s a great spot to relax with a beer. The ambiance, with music that’s just right, makes for a perfect casual drinking experience.
I think this would also be a great place to get some work done so why not bring your laptop while you sip on that beer?
Liquid Riot
Located right on the waterfront, Liquid Riot offers a tempting selection of brown ales, stouts, and IPAs.
It’s a great place to enjoy a drink, and they also serve gourmet bar food. Though I haven’t tried their food yet, it comes highly recommended.
Shipyard Brewing Company
Shipyard Brewing stands out with its wide array of beer styles. The pumpkin ale is a treat in the fall, and they often experiment with unique flavors like vanilla and jalapeño. Some of their offerings are exclusive to the brewery, making it a must-visit for unique brew finds.
Restaurants with excellent drink options
Sur Lie and Leeward are not traditional bars, but they offer impressive drink selections. Sur Lie has a superb wine list and cocktails that can be paired perfectly with your meal. At Leeward, the wine is excellent, and they have an intriguing selection of digestifs, including a whiskey amaro that was particularly memorable.
Why is a bar or brewery that I love not on this list?
With over 25 breweries and countless bars in Portland, it’s quite a challenge to explore them all! The places I’ve included are those I’ve personally visited and can wholeheartedly recommend. If a well-loved spot isn’t featured here, it doesn’t mean it isn’t wonderful—it simply means I haven’t had the chance to try it yet. I encourage you to discover and share your own favorites, too!
Final thoughts on the best bars in Portland
Portland, Maine, offers a diverse and vibrant drinking scene that caters to all tastes. From cozy wine bars and bustling breweries to sophisticated cocktail bars, each place provides a unique experience worth exploring. So next time you’re in town, check out some of the best bars in Portland! Cheers!
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