Eater in Cape Elizabeth, Maine: 4 Spots

Researched by Varedelo

Planning notes for Portland

Must-try foods in Portland

• Brown Butter Lobster Roll
  Brown Butter Lobster RollA modern Portland icon from Eventide Oyster Co., this roll breaks tradition by using a warm, steamed bao-style bun stuffed with fresh Maine lobster meat tossed in a rich, nutty brown butter vinaigrette.
• Duck Fat Belgian Fries
  Duck Fat Belgian FriesHand-cut Belgian fries fried twice in duck fat for a distinctively savory depth and perfect crunch. Served at the legendary Duckfat, they are best paired with a flight of homemade dipping sauces like truffle ketchup or garlic mayo.
• Sourdough Croissants
  Sourdough CroissantsBelleville on Munjoy Hill has mastered the art of the sourdough-based croissant. These pastries are famous for their deep mahogany crust, intricate lamination, and a slight tang that sets them apart from traditional French versions.
• Mee Goreng
  Mee GorengFound at The Honey Paw, this dish features chewy, house-made egg noodles stir-fried with bok choy, fermented chilies, and often local seafood. It represents the high-end Asian-fusion movement dominating Washington Avenue.
• Smoked Brisket Tacos
  Smoked Brisket TacosTerlingua blends 'low and slow' Texas BBQ techniques with Caribbean and Mexican influences. Their brisket is smoked on-site and served in fresh tortillas with house-made pickles and bright, acidic salsas.
• Island Creek Oysters
  Island Creek OystersServed at The Shop, these are the gold standard for raw bar enthusiasts in the East End. Shucked to order in a minimalist, industrial space, they represent the peak of Maine’s cold-water aquaculture.

Trip guide

• About Portland
  About PortlandThe East End of Portland, Maine, located on the Munjoy Hill peninsula, is a district defined by its 19th-century maritime history and preserved landscape architecture. Following the Great Fire of 1866, the area underwent significant residential development, resulting in a concentration of Victorian-era architectural styles, including Queen Anne, Italianate, and Colonial Revival.
• When to go
  When to goThe best time to visit Portland’s East End is from late June through early September for warm, sunny weather (60°F–80°F) and full access to the Eastern Promenade’s trails and water activities. September and October offer a quieter "shoulder season" with crisp air, vibrant fall foliage along the harbor, and fewer crowds than the peak summer months of July and August.
• Getting around
  Getting around Portland

  • Greater Portland METRO (Bus) Route 1 (Congress Street) provides frequent daily service directly to the East End and Munjoy Hill from the Portland Transportation Center and downtown. Route 8 (Peninsula Loop) also services the area.
  • Biking and Walking The Eastern Promenade Trail is a scenic 2.1-mile paved waterfront path that connects the Old Port to East End Beach. Portland also offers a city-wide bikeshare program with multiple stations located near the park and.
  • Driving and Parking Accessible via I-295 (Exit 7 to Franklin Street), the area offers free and metered street parking along the Eastern Promenade. A dedicated public parking lot is available on Cutter Street.
• Local tips
  Local tips

  • Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes to navigate the neighborhood's historic but uneven brick sidewalks safely.
  • Download the Passport Parking app to manage street parking payments remotely and avoid frequent ticketing in high-demand zones.
  • Budget for a standard 20% tip at sit-down restaurants, as servers often rely on gratuities to meet the local living wage.
• What’s new
  What’s new in Portland

  • Tuna & Friends Guest Chef Series: A major 2026 pop-up series at Mr. Tuna featuring 11 acclaimed chefs from across North America collaborating on sustainable seafood menus through.
  • Portland Foreside Waterfront: The massive billion-dollar development on the Eastern Waterfront is hitting major milestones in 2026.
• Visit Portland↗
  Visit PortlandVisit Portland is the official destination marketing organization for the Greater Portland region, including the coastal town of Cape Elizabeth, Maine.