Valentine’s Day in Coastal Maine has a quieter kind of romance. Snow softens the edges of the city, evenings feel unrushed, and restaurants become warm little worlds of their own. If you’re planning a night out near Portland, these three spots consistently feel just right.
Twelve in the Portland Foreside has become one of those places my husband and I return to often! It feels intimate and refined without ever feeling formal, and you can actually hear each other across the table, which is rare and appreciated. The service is thoughtful, the cocktails are beautifully done, and every dish is incredible! It is the kind of restaurant where the experience feels just as memorable as the food, which is why I often recommend it to clients as well. I know they’ll be well taken care of and leave feeling like they discovered something special.
Twelve in the Portland Foreside has become one of those places my husband and I return to often! It feels intimate and refined without ever feeling formal, and you can actually hear each other across the table, which is rare and appreciated. The service is thoughtful, the cocktails are beautifully done, and every dish is incredible! It is the kind of restaurant where the experience feels just as memorable as the food, which is why I often recommend it to clients as well. I know they’ll be well taken care of and leave feeling like they discovered something special.
EVO has quickly become one of my favorite places to dine in Portland. The food is consistently excellent, and the service is friendly and efficient without ever feeling rushed. I especially love sitting at the chef's counter, where you get a closer sense of the care that goes into each dish. The staff is extremely knowledgeable about both the menu and drinks, which always stands out. It delivers high quality in a relaxed way.
Leeward rounds out the list with handmade pasta, a welcoming atmosphere, and a relaxed neighborhood feel that still feels special. The menu is consistently thoughtful, and the chef does a wonderful job highlighting what’s in season. I also appreciate how accommodating they are with gluten-free options, especially the gnocchi, which never feels like a compromise.
Leeward rounds out the list with handmade pasta, a welcoming atmosphere, and a relaxed neighborhood feel that still feels special. The menu is consistently thoughtful, and the chef does a wonderful job highlighting what’s in season. I also appreciate how accommodating they are with gluten-free options, especially the gnocchi, which never feels like a compromise.
Valentine’s Day doesn’t need to be over the top. A warm room, good food, and a night that unfolds naturally is often the most memorable combination.
