Eventide Oyster Co.

86 Middle St, Portland, ME 04101, USA

Local is the operative word in the Portland, Maine food scene. Ask a waiter what Atlantic Day-Boat halibut is exactly, and he’ll spin a story about the local captain who pulls in with the day’s catch. At the height of summer, it seems that every ingredient is caught, raised, foraged, or grown in the vicinity. So it’s no surprise that Maine oysters take pride of place at Eventide Oyster Co. Sure, there are some bivalves from New York and the West Coast, but my advice is to quiz the waitress about the ones from West Bath, Casco Bay, and the Damariscotta River. A hit of frozen Tabasco came on the house, but these plump beauties are best with just a squeeze of lemon.

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Fabulous Seafood at Portland Maine’s Eventide Oyster Co.

What originally began as a lunch stop on our family’s annual trip to Penobscott Bay, Eventide has now become a destination in itself for me. I entered this restaurant in downtown Portland an oyster lover and left an oyster snob. The place’s proximity to Casco and Penobscott Bays means they have access to an enormous variety of fresh local oysters and seafood (littlenecks, mussels, fish served crudo style, and more). For me, though, the best thing on the menu is the Maine lobster roll, served on a steamed bun with brown butter vinaigrette. It’s just perfection. (photo: Timothy Krause/Flickr Creative Commons)

A Great American Oyster Bar

Eating oysters and seafood in a laid-back, comfortable environment has to be one of life’s great pleasures. The Maine waters provide plenty of ingredients to be showcased at Eventide. During my visit, there were 19 types of oysters on the menu. I love the fact that pickled ginger or horseradish ice can accompany the choices. Great cocktails—I couldn’t resist a green mimosa—and a sophisticated wine list round out the beverages. There is also a menu for anyone in the group who doesn’t partake in the bivalves, but for those that do, this is a quintessential New England experience.

Foodies' Delight for Fresh Fish

Known for their selection of oysters, Eventide is the premier destination for the best, fresh seafood in Portland. While we loved garnishing our oysters with their selection of flavored shaved ices, our menu favorite was the Maine scallop crudo. Pair your order with one of the restaurant’s signature cocktails.

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