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Nestled in the heart of Portland, Maine, Eventide Oyster Co. shines as a beacon for seafood lovers seeking a sublime blend of tradition and innovation. This oyster bar and seafood restaurant has earned a reputation for its impeccable selection of fresh oysters, carefully curated daily from the pristine waters off the coast of Maine. From the moment you step inside, you’re greeted with the unmistakable aroma of the ocean and the cozy buzz of a place that truly knows its craft.
The cuisine here is an ode to New England’s rich maritime heritage, elevated with creative culinary twists. The crown jewel on the menu is undoubtedly the famed Brown Butter Lobster Roll—a warm, steamed bun lovingly filled with buttery lobster meat that leaves a lingering richness on your palate. Diners repeatedly rave about its perfect balance of softness and savory bite, a dish so alluring it redefines what a lobster roll can be. Equally compelling is the iconic New England Clam Chowder, beautifully accented with a surprising yet delightful seaweed garnish that adds a fresh oceanic note to the creamy, comforting broth.
Eventide is more than just oysters on the half shell (though the fresh, briny dozen unshucked oysters—handpicked as you watch the tide of Maine seasons—is an adventure in itself). The menu’s breadth ensures there’s something for every seafood aficionado: from the satisfying crunch of the Fried Oyster Bun, tartar sauce and pickled vegetables perfectly layered in a soft bun, to exotic offerings like the Scallop Waffle-Yaki, marrying sweet and savory in an unforgettable bite. Those with a sweet tooth will find bliss in the classic Whoopie Pie or the rich, dense Chocolate Coconut Brownie, a perfect finishing touch.
The atmosphere at Eventide complements the dining experience with an inviting coastal vibe that balances rustic charm and modern flair. Seating is casual and intimate, with warm wood accents and large windows letting in natural light, allowing you to savor each dish while soaking in the vibrant energy of Portland’s historic waterfront area.
Customers like Ingrid Ramos gush about the “mouth-watering” flavors and the unique touches such as seaweed atop the clam chowder, while Heather Mashburn confesses that the brown butter lobster roll “ruins my other lobster roll experiences” for its generous, sublime lobster meat. Jessica DeCesare praises the attentive service and the thoughtful oyster selection, recommending the hint of shaved horseradish with a splash of classic mignonette, showcasing how Eventide’s staff elevate not only the food but the entire experience.
For those who crave authenticity, craftsmanship, and a delicious journey through Maine’s seafood treasures, Eventide Oyster Co. is a must-visit culinary destination. It beckons with promises of pristine seafood, innovative dishes, and flavors that stay with you long after the last bite.
The food is mouth watering. Please get the brown butter lobster roll you won’t regret it! The clam chowder was amazing and unlike any other I’ve had. It had seaweed on top which I thought was a modern and delicious touch. The oysters were also great and they have many different kinds. Will definitely return when we make our next trip to Portland.
Decided to enjoy lunch here after reading Amanda Wanders blog about best lobster rolls in Portland, Maine. Party of 2, we arrived right before there was a wait for lunch 11:25. Cody our server was attentive, knowledgeable and efficient. We ordered 1 doz. oysters which Cody selected as he said, “working up the coast of Maine”. Loved the shaved horseradish recommendation along with mignonette which was delicious. I’m from MD and horseradish ice is never an option. An upgrade from cocktail sauce for sure. Lobster roll is was small in size. Totally fine with that and delicious. I asked Cody what he liked and the Bigeye Tuna Crudo is what he suggested. Excellent! To compliment the meal I enjoyed a Bloody Mary. Homemade mix which was fresh and tasty. Highly recommend if you’re looking for a casual, lively, & fun place that has great food & service.
If you’re a fan of fresh seafood and relaxed coastal vibes, this restaurant is an absolute must-visit. The oyster selection alone is worth the trip—freshly shucked and beautifully presented. Each one tastes like a clean, briny kiss of the ocean. But the true standout is their brown butter lobster roll, which might just be the best I’ve ever had. The atmosphere is equally inviting, with both indoor and outdoor seating that cater to any mood—cozy and intimate inside, breezy and low key on the patio. Their beer selection is also impressive, with local brews on draft and a thoughtful list of bottled options. Whether you’re coming for a casual lunch or a leisurely dinner, this spot delivers a flawless seafood experience every time.
The food was excellent. Great quality ingredients and flavors were very enjoyable. Restaurant was small with not a lot of seating. Wife and I got sat at the window on a make shift bar top. No big deal but would have been a nicer experience at a regular table. My wife really enjoyed her oysters and the Halibut Crudo was rockin'. I enjoyed the Crudo more than the bao bun lobster roll.
I visit Eventide every time I come to Portland to visit family. Truly, the brown butter lobster roll is the best lobster roll I've ever had and surprisingly, it's at a great price. The amount of meat on the roll is substantial and honestly it ruins my other lobster roll experiences elsewhere because I always compare it to this one. It's that good. I just wish it was a little larger! The restaurant itself is on the small side compared to what I'm used to in Dallas, but is comparable to other restaurants in Portland for sure. The decor is coastal chic, service is always outstanding, and it keeps me coming back. My first visit was during Covid and we sat outside in the dead of winter but they went to great lengths to create a warm and cozy dining experience - so here I am, visiting for the 3rd time. I've also had the oysters and some cocktails, but I just keep going back to the lobster roll. It's a must.
I ordered takeout, so I only experienced front of house service from the hostess. The restaurant was very busy, but my online order was ready at the time it said it would be. I was really impressed with how tasty everything was even after the short 5 minute drive back to my hotel. My only complaint was how small the roll was, however, the fish sandwich was incredible. I would definitely recommend anyone to go here.
The scallop waffle was amazing - we considered going back just for this during our trip! Very cool experience waiting at the bar in front of the oysters. They helped us distinguish the differences between oysters and their flavors. The brown butter lobster roll was my favorite one we had in Portland, I just wished it was a little bigger. Overall, would definitely recommend.