Portland gets plenty of well-deserved attention for its incredible food scene. From award-winning restaurants to neighborhood favorites, it's one of America's premier dining destinations.

But Portland isn't the only city in Maine serving up amazing food. The Pine Tree State is filled with outstanding restaurants, cafés, breweries, pizza joints, bakeries, and coffee shops. In fact, one of Maine's best food cities sits just across the bridge from Portland—and it's every bit as worthy of a visit.

Is South Portland One of Maine's Best Foodie Cities?

Just across the Casco Bay Bridge from the state’s biggest city, South Portland is quietly making a name for itself. If you're in the Greater Portland area, it's a quick and easy drive—and trust me, it’s worth the trip. It’s about time South Portland got some well-deserved love.

Bistro Leluco via Facebook
Bistro Leluco via Facebook
Bistro Leluco via Facebook

South Portland's culinary crusade has reached a new level. The town has had so many new hot spots open that it feels like a smaller version of big brother Portland.

South Portland has also had a recent run of great press, including James Beard nominations, rave reviews, spots on "Best of" lists. 

Meanwhile, Downeast Magazine called the street where Sopo Seafood Market & Raw Bar, Asian House Kitchen & Bar, and the Garden Bar reside, the best culinary block in the state. That is one heck of a compliment.

City Farmhouse via Facebook
City Farmhouse via Facebook
City Farmhouse via Facebook

But South Portland is more than just one street. You can find delicious restaurants, cafés, pizza shops, pubs, and diners in every neighborhood. And the food scene just keeps expanding.

READ MOREThis Portland Taco Joint Was Just Named the Best in Maine

What are Considered the Best Restaurants in South Portland?

With the town’s reputation skyrocketing, it seems like a great time to highlight many of South Portland’s finest establishments. So, I strolled over to TripAdvisor to see which joints can be found at the top of the popularity lists. I’m talking about the spots that both Mainers and tourists enjoy the most. And now you can check out that list below.

The 10 Most Popular South Portland, Maine, Restaurants According to TripAdvisor

These 10 restaurants are what locals and tourists have voted as the best in South Portland. The data comes from TripAdvisor in August of 2026.

Gallery Credit: Chris Sedenka

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Gallery Credit: Rob Carroll