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Best Neighborhood Gem Restaurants in Portland

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7 restaurants available nearby

A photo of David's Restaurant restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(3857)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary American • Portland
Booked 20 times today
A long established local favorite at the center of the historic arts district featuring eclectic decor,and an energetic atmosphere. David's offers broadly appealing menus that highlight familiar dishes with acreative twist. Open for lunch and dinner, showcasing delectable options for gluten free, vegetarian, and vegan diners. David’s is known for delicious meals, and warm and friendly service. It’s no wonder that Chef David was voted Portland's best chef in 2021 and chef of the year in 2012.
A photo of Isa Bistro - Portland restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(1419)
Price: Expensive
• Bistro • Portland
Booked 27 times today
Isa is a small neighborhood bistro serving eclectic and seasonally driven menu. Reservations are available inside the dining room up to 30 days out, with a maximum of 8 guests. Our private outdoor patio is open seasonally with same day reservations available only, as it is uncovered and weather permitting (not dog friendly). Please provide 24 hours notice for cancellations or a late cancellation fee may apply. Friday lunch available 11:30-4pm. Dinner daily 4-9pm, except closed on Tuesdays.A husband and wife duo! A 2023 James Beard nominated chef, Isaul Perez brings his experience cooking French and Italian food in NYC to life with a splash of his Mexican heritage. His wife Suzie is a certified sommelier and face of the front. They showcase local farms and purveyors, offer craft beers and house specialty cocktails. The dining room is cozy and quaint with an original black tin ceiling. Be sure to order any of the Mexican dishes, whatever they may be!
A photo of Solo Italiano restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(2716)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Portland
Booked 11 times today
We currently offer in-house dining Tuesday through Sunday from 4:30-10:00pm (last dinner seating is at 9:30). Takeout is no longer available at this time. Patio dining is available Memorial Day weekend through September and always subject to weather. Please call us directly to reserve a patio table, but keep in mind that of the six 4-tops available outside, three are kept for walk-ins only.Our restaurant features Paolo Laboa, international chef from Genova, Italy. His menu consists of simple, flavorful and authentic Northern Italian cuisine. This includes handmade pasta, crudo (raw fish), fresh pizza and an all-Italian wine list. Ingredients are sourced locally, from various Maine farms and from the Gulf of Maine, whenever possible.
A photo of Roma Portland restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(976)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Portland
Booked 8 times today
The Roma is a throwback, classic American Italian restaurant located in the heart of the West End on Congress St, that pays tribute to the great American Italian restaurants of decades past. The Roma will serve classic Italian-American fare in a relaxed and comfortable dining room. Love for comfort food.
A photo of Little Tap House restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(395)
Price: Moderate
• Bistro • Portland
Booked 2 times today
A neighborhood gastropub featuring 14 local beverages on tap and scratch-kitchen fare. Menu features shares, entrees and house-made desserts. Reservations available in our dining room; our bar and high-top area is almost always dedicated to walk-ins. For reservations for seven or more, email us at littletaphouse@gmail.com.Steps away from popular venues such as the Portland Museum of Art, Cross Insurance Arena, and the State Theater. A welcoming dining experience for locals and visitors-alike!
A photo of Bird & Co. restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(282)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • Portland
Booked 9 times today
We are a neighborhood Taco and Margarita bar. We would love to feed you. Located in the middle of Woodfords Corner, tucked away on the Corner of Deering Ave. and Revere St. Our creative tacos and margaritas use the freshest ingredients and we have something on the menu for everyone. You deserve Tacos.
A photo of David's 388 restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(1378)
Price: Expensive
• Bistro • South Portland
Booked 7 times today
From the owner of David's (Portland, ME), 388 is a comfortable and casual neighborhood nook where diners can enjoy a range of bold flavors. Both restaurants share the signature of Chef/Owner David Turin, and David's 388 is built "by the Chef, for the Chef." Every week, David's 388 thrills the palette with new dishes that have both creative and traditional influences spanning the width of the globe. The restaurant seats 42 including seating at a Chef’s counter overlooking the kitchen.

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From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Christopher
    Greater Boston •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Whenever my husband and I want a special night out we always go to Isa and they never disappoint. I didn’t think they could up their game but I had steak with a whiskey cream sauce and it truly was the best meal I can recall. This place is perfection…from the service,the atmosphere,and the food…simply sublime. Bravo Isa! Please don’t ever change.
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    Isa Bistro - PortlandPrice: Expensive• Bistro• Portland
    4.9
  • Fred
    Greater Boston •8 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    We had not been back to David’s for a number of years due to location; however, we were thrilled with the entire dining experience starting with their willingness to slightly change our reservation time in order to move to a table and have a longer seating time. The service was superb and not rushed, yet attentive. The choices offered under each course were all scrumptious which made it difficult to choose, but we did choosing the lamb and duck dishes as our mains. Cooked perfectly at medium rare for both, eating them was to experience well blended yet not overpowering flavors and perfectly sized portions. The appetizers were equally impressive but I must say the sea salted cashew caramel chocolate torte was divine! A great dining experience and would highly recommend for a special evening.
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    David's RestaurantPrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• Portland
    4.7
  • Christelle
    Greater Boston •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    The Roma is the best place for an Italian meal for any occasion, special or otherwise. The ambience is perfect, a dining room in an old mansion, the food is outstanding, and the service is first rate. I would say it is one of the best, if not the best, overall dining experience for a romantic evening in Portland. There are other places that might be more recognized for their culinary offerings, but so many of them are loud with high ceilings, open kitchens, and awkward seating. The Roma is a perfect trifecta of a dining experience.
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    Roma PortlandPrice: Moderate• Italian• Portland
    4.7
  • Erich
    Greater Boston •7 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    A genuinely excellent Italian dining experience in Portland Maine's Old Port. The focus on locally sourced ingredients makes a big difference. The chef (from Genova) makes the most of the local fresh seafood. Service was perhaps the best we have had in Portland, which is a pretty high bar, but still, better here.
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    Solo ItalianoPrice: Expensive• Italian• Portland
    4.8
  • SteveVIP
    Greater Boston •66 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Jan 24, 2025
    Our first time visiting since the new owners took over. The happy hour is great and goes until 6 pm, which is very generous. We had deviled eggs , mussels and a delicious smash burger. I highly recommend this restaurant and we will definitely be back!
    More info
    Little Tap HousePrice: Moderate• Bistro• Portland
    4.6

Discover best neighborhood gem restaurants in Portland

Discover the hidden culinary treasures of Greater Portland, Maine, where the dining scene is defined by its charming "neighborhood gems." These delightful eateries, nestled within the vibrant local neighborhoods, offer a unique blend of warm ambiance, superb service, and exceptional cuisine that truly embodies the spirit of Portland. Each restaurant prides itself on creating dishes that are both innovative and comforting, using locally sourced ingredients to deliver a truly authentic experience. Patrons can expect a diverse range of culinary offerings, from expertly crafted Italian dishes to locally inspired French cuisine, all served in settings that boast character and intimacy. The commitment to quality and the emphasis on a friendly, inviting atmosphere make these establishments standout destinations for both locals and visitors alike. Whether you're in the mood for a hearty steak, a delicate pasta, or a creative cocktail, these neighborhood gems in Greater Portland promise a memorable dining experience that resonates with the heart of Maine's culinary culture.

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