The best bars & nightlife in Portland

“Franciska leans into Argentine Bodegón comfort with Spanish and Italian soul, pairing thoughtful wines with house-made specialties built from New England-sourced ingredients.”

From the Portland newsletter, August 7, 2026

“Craving a spot where cocktails get playful and dessert isn't an afterthought? Low Key shakes up Dirty Chai Martinis, French 75s, and bright spritzes, backs it with soft serve sundaes and a boozy affogato, and feeds you right with paninis like the Eastern Prom Ham Sandwich or the Munjoy BLT.”

From the Portland newsletter, August 3, 2026

“Rosie's Restaurant & Pub has been a beloved watering hole since 1987, slinging half‑pound burgers, hand crafted pizzas, fish and chips, and wings that hit the spot, with a steady lineup of cold drafts. Perfect when you want zero fuss and maximum comfort, right here in your weekly rotation.”

From the Portland newsletter, August 8, 2026

“Marquis Lounge blends Parisian bistro polish with New Orleans swagger, pouring seasonal cocktails and old-school classics alongside traditional absinthe service, champagne and caviar. Add NOLA-style bar snacks, locally made flatbread pizzas, sweet treats, and a sophisticated yet playful, neighborhood-bistro vibe...”

From the Portland newsletter, September 3, 2026

“Craving a bottle that goes beyond the usual suspects? Maine & Loire keeps it fun with curated packs, a discovery club, and a selection spanning Champagne, Beaujolais, Italy, and North America, plus ciders, co-ferments, and plenty under $25... perfect for weeknight dinners or last-minute hangs this week.”

From the Portland newsletter, August 30, 2026

“Vintage-inspired cocktails, nautical lore, and upscale small plates make Blyth & Burrows the kind of spot you hit when you want a proper drink and a little atmosphere. Think thoughtful house creations, a maritime backstory, and the kind of vibe that turns weeknights into occasions.”

From the Portland newsletter, September 15, 2026

“Whether you're in it for sharp touring headliners or to cheer on the up-and-coming locals at open mics, Empire Comedy Club keeps the calendar packed and the sets tight. Pro tip, tickets move fast, so keep an eye on presales if you like first-pick seats.”

From the Portland newsletter, August 31, 2026

“Whether you need a midweek reset or a low-key hang, Gritty McDuff's Brew Pub still nails it with authentic English ales, cask pours, and the kind of pub food you actually want, from wings to lobster poutine. A Portland original since 1988, and still the Old Port’s reliable good time.”

From the Portland newsletter, August 27, 2026

“Friends & Family is the cozy neighborhood spot where crisp pies, shareable small plates, and an eclectic wine selection make last-minute plans feel intentional. Swing by for a bottle to take home, a glass with friends, or join the wine club and call it research.”

From the Portland newsletter, September 4, 2026

“Angoor Wine Bar lets you sample 30+ self-pour wines without the side-eye, then back it up with globally inspired tapas that lean Indian and Puerto Rican, plus cocktails and mocktails. Perfect for a low-key midweek catch-up or a treat-yourself brunch when the to-do list can wait.”

From the Portland newsletter, August 21, 2026

“Whether you’re chasing a cold can, a solid local pour, or a plate of gloriously messy pub grub, Tomaso's Canteen keeps it simple and satisfying. Expect bar and grill comfort, brunch, hot sausage, and a full bar with a canned beer lineup that feels like it read your mind.”

From the Portland newsletter, September 20, 2026

“Come as you are to The East Ender for better-than-bar eats with craft beer, wine, and cocktails, then stick around for nightly karaoke that actually slaps. Thursday trivia keeps the brain cells sharp, and the vibe stays relaxed enough to celebrate a birthday or just dodge cooking again.”

From the Portland newsletter, August 24, 2026

“Whether you need an after-work reset or a low-key flex for visiting friends, Luna Rooftop Bar serves year-round, panoramic views from the harbor to Casco Bay with creative, locally spirited cocktails and shareable plates riffing on Maine flavors.”

From the Portland newsletter, August 10, 2026

“Slip into Bramhall’s candlelit brick-and-stone hideaway this week and post up with a thought provoking cocktail, or dive into one of the city’s largest bourbon, scotch, and rum collections. Pair it with Miso Brussel Sprouts, a Bramhall Smash Burger, then see what the Bartender’s Weekly Cocktail stirs up.”

From the Portland newsletter, August 15, 2026

“Room for Improvement is the Old Port cocktail spot for locals who like classics with a clever twist, plus mocktails that aren’t an afterthought. Pair a proper martini with a Maine red snapper hot dog or a soft pretzel, settle in, and let the night unspool.”

From the Portland newsletter, August 17, 2026

“Hunt & Alpine just wrapped a 2025 refresh, and it shows in the dialed-in cocktails, snacks, and super knowledgeable crew. A two-time James Beard semi-finalist with national nods, it’s the Portland standby when you want a proper drink with friends this week.”

From the Portland newsletter, August 28, 2026

“Run by Maine comedians, Maine House of Comedy keeps standup humming around town, including the Cabin Fever series at the Halo space at Thompson’s Point that has sold out 13 times. Expect sharp sets, familiar faces, and a scene that actually feels like ours.”

From the Portland newsletter, September 19, 2026

“The Continental is a laid-back neighborhood spot doing European comfort right, from crisp fried fish and shepherd’s pie to French onion soup that actually earns a second spoon. Pair it with one of their 80+ cocktails or a pint of Guinness, then settle in like you accidentally found your new local.”

“Supper Club Cocktail Lounge nails that Portland sweet spot where a quick happy hour quietly becomes a full evening, with freezer martinis, spirit-forward classics, tiny 'tinis, Surfers on Acid, and a real NA lineup. Deviled eggs, pickle plates, and rotating entrées meet a comfy back lounge built for lingering.”

From the Portland newsletter, September 21, 2026

“Whether you're ducking out after work or hiding from the group chat, Maps Bar is the tiny, vinyl-lined spot for a mellow pint or glass of wine, plus surprisingly craveable desserts. Expect vintage maps on the walls and shelves of records that make it feel like your coolest friend's den.”

From the Portland newsletter, September 5, 2026