Whether you go for the traditional lobster roll or not, Portland, Maine is a little city with plenty of delicious food to offer. One of our favorites is J's Oyster House.

J’s Oyster House is situated right on the water. The building looks like its been there for hundreds of years, beaten and worn overtime by crisp New England air. It’s small and dark inside, but packed with people, all competing for a place to sit and chow. When we finally got a chance to sit down, we started with fresh, raw oysters and a cup of New England clam chowder. The oysters were succulent and the chowder was chunky and delicious.

Next, we ordered a bucket of steamers. The man sitting next to us recommended we do so. A local and loyal J’s customer for some fifty years, he said the steamers were the best. So we felt we just had to have them too. I’ve never been so content. They were incredible! Not only was the seafood the very best I’ve ever had, so was the service. In fact, when Paul and I mentioned to the bartender that we’d never been to Portland before, she drew us a map and told us the best places to go. Next, the oyster man (the one whose only job was to shuck the oysters, it seemed) came over and drew us another map, this time directing us to the secret location that the locals go to get away from the tourists. It was perfect and just what we needed. By the time we left, we felt like we were locals too.