4 Must Have Foods in Portland, Maine
1. Whoopie pies
Whoopie pies are one of if not the most famous dessert in Maine. For those who don’t know, a whoopie pie is kind of like a cake sandwich. It’s two round cake-ish pieces sandwiched together with icing inside. Traditionally it’s a chocolate cake with vanilla icing but you can find a wide variety of flavors, especially depending on the season. Cape Whoopies is the most famous in Portland or you could drive a little bit up the road to Wicked Whoopies in Freeport, ME right across from L.L. Bean’s flagship store. You can’t go wrong with either store but you truly can’t leave Maine without trying their official state treat.
2. Duckfat fries
This was one of the most unsuspecting amazing meals I have ever had. Our attention was caught by the name and even in the middle of the day there was a hefty wait. Luckily they have a second location down the road with a smaller menu (pretty much only fries and shakes) but it was just what we needed and thankfully a much smaller line. I ordered the poutine (fries with gravy and cheese curds) and added duck confit and a fried egg on top. My mouth is watering just typing this as I think back to this amazing meal. The reason for the restaurants name is that the fries are cooked in duck fat. That may sound strange but it’s a very traditional cooking method in France. This meal was my favorite in all of Portland and will be my first stop the next time I come to visit. The staff was so nice and I can not recommend this place enough.
3. Holy Donut
I am not exaggerating when I say that Holy Donut was one of the most memorable donuts I have ever eaten. Many reasons for this bold statement because trust me… I’ve eaten a lot of donuts in my lifetime. Holy donut is unique because their donut base is made of potatoes. Mashed potatoes to be exact. Yea I know that sounds super weird and I was skeptical at first but man was it delicious. I had the chocolate caramel coconut donut which was essentially like a samoan girl scout cookie. It was technically vegan which also left me a little skeptical (I was being judgmental I know) but once I took a bite, i couldn’t put it down. The potato base made it light and very enjoyable. I also tried one of the seasonal donuts which was caramel apple. But instead of potatoes, it was an apple base. Also incredible and very unique. Each donut cost between $2.60-$3.50 each. They have vegan and gluten free options plus a wide selections of drinks such as hot or iced coffee and local apple cider. If i could have eaten one of every donut I would have. The staff was so nice and took great care to explain to us newbies about the different flavor options. As we were waiting for our donuts we had the pleasure of meeting the man in charge of all of the Holy Donut locations. Ryan was as sweet as could be and told us all about their history. The great food and great hospitality of Holy Donut is a memory I will always hold in Portland.
4. Anything Blueberry
Blueberries are one of Maine’s specialties! You can find all different kinds of blueberry treats across the state including but not limited to jams, jelly, syrups, honey, and pie! The state berry is officially the wild blueberry and the state dessert is blueberry pie. The state sweetener is maple syrup so maybe pick up some blueberry maple syrup and you’re good to go! There are many places that sell blueberries and blueberry products but I recommend stopping at one of the small farm stands on the side of the road. Shopping small and local when you travel is one of the best things you can do for the local economy.