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    DiMillo's On the Water

    3.8 (1.3k reviews)
    Closed • 12:00 pm - 9:00 PM
    Updated 1 month ago

    DiMillo's On the Water Photos

    Business Info

    DIMILLO'S ON THE WATER ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Touristy
    Moderate noise
    Good for groups
    Outdoor seating

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    Lazy Lobster (G)
    Kaitlyn S.

    Did not disappoint and certainly lived up to the hype! We're visiting family in town and this place has long been a family favorite so we were so excited to experienced it ourselves. We were sat quickly with a nice view of the surrounding boats; and Grace was a delightful server. We tried a little bit of everything including crab cakes (dense and delightful), scallops (so smooth!!), calamari (perfect light fry). For entrees we went the "when in Rome!" Route with lobster Mac & cheese and Lazy Lobster.

    Kaye K.

    This restaurant is overrated- nice ambiance and location on the water, but the pricing in relation to the specialness of the food makes it a no need to ever return kind of place for me. To have the plastic casing of the polenta in the polenta side dish is inexcusable. The haddock chowder was watery with very little halibut in it. To the restaurant's credit, however, they did comp a glass of wine to make up for the packaging remnant and they validated parking in the lot which is nice. One other critique- the pop music does not at all fit this restaurant and cheapens the dining experience. Many better restaurants in the area to choose fr

    Latest menu
    Michael G.

    We were recommended to dine at DiMillo's by our hotel. The Canopy by Hilton. We started wi the mozzarella and fried artichokes served in a hot honey marinara. Very good. We also enjoyed the pecan crusted stuffed haddock with creamy polenta. Amazing flavors!! I enjoyed the broiled mixed seafood platter with roasted carrots. Very good!! Our server Erin is a local and has been with the restaurant for years. Thank Erin for a great dining experience. The atmosphere was top with complete nautical experience. A must try folks!! Enjoy the photos.

    1-1/2 lb. Lobster (GF)
    Steffen R.

    Came in for a work dinner per our managers recommendation and boy were we in for a treat. I think almost everything on the menu was ordered but what I definitely had were the steamers, the bacon wrapped scallops, the lobster (of course), carrot cake and an affogato. Shared of course, except the lobster and the affogato, those were all mine! Absolutely delicious all of it! Dark upscale dining vibe, great place for a date or dinner celebration if you're ok spending some good money as it's not cheap. Will definitely be back!

    The restaurant on the harbor
    Wendy T.

    Restaurant recommended by the most people for a classic steamed lobster. The kitchen was kind and pre-cracked the shell. Just what we wanted, and the cheddar polenta was good too. Loved our server! Loved eating at the port on a boat! Lunch crowd was casually dressed and we felt comfortable.

    Patron Silver & Mimosa
    Timothy G.

    My wife and I love the Old Portand and Dimillio's is a must see if you enjoy great food, drink, service and atmosphere. For this visit the steam clams were perfec, the haddock chowder was probably the best we've had years. What We shared an Espresso Martini...Yummy! You can't go wrong at Dimillio's so check them out and enjoy!!

    Gnocchi
    Kim N.

    I made a reservation here for a group of 7 on a Thursday for my mom's birthday. I called about 3 weeks in advance and the only time I could get before 7pm was at 5:15pm. Online reservations only allow you to reserve for a group size up to 4 and it seems like online reservations open 2 weeks in advance. I wish I had known I needed to call even earlier. Fortunately, on the day of my reservation, the restaurant called me and offered to move my group to an outdoor table overlooking the dock, which was really nice. It's covered outside and not loud. Our waitress was attentive. We shared calamari for an appetizer, which was good but could've used a little more sauce, preferably on the side for dipping; there was a bit too many capers for my liking. I enjoyed the clam chowder; nothing spectacular, but it was good. I really enjoyed the gnocchi & crab entree! The crab wasn't packed with flavor, but the serving size was really solid. My mom got the lazy lobster, which looked skimpy but she said ultimately it was filling enough. I requested the chocolate cake for dessert, which came with vanilla ice cream. My 4-year-old nieces thought it was too chocolatey and sweet, but I liked it. This place is probably popular primarily for the location, ambiance, and views; the food is OK, but still somewhere I'd recommend for a "classic Portland nice-ish dinner."

    Caesar salad.
    John Z.

    Yes, we visited Demillos 4 months ago. This time we had my daughter (44years old) and wife join the dinner. You know from my previous reviews that I will compliment or criticize as appropriate. The reception desk was staffed by Rachel who was less than welcoming and flippant. Had a cocktail at their beautiful bar while we waited for our table. Jess was our bartender who was very nice. I went back to the reception desk to see if our table was close to being ready. Solera was at the desk and was very nice. Iko was our server. He was attentive, informative and met all our dining requests. The food is top shelf. My wife is already suggesting that we go back again in the spring. Keep up the good work.

    Mitch P.

    When eating here one has dinner on a boat in the harbor with seats at and near the window getting a good look at all the boats in the harbor, which makes it a beautiful place to eat. 6 of us had a 5:45 dinner and the restaurant was maybe 80-90% full. My wife and I had a Maine crab roll and Caesar Salad. She really enjoyed her salad and I thought my dinner was just okay. Another couple split a Prime Rib and thought it was just okay while the other couple loved what they ordered. We all thought our server was okay. He was nice but took a while to take orders and bring the bill and didn't follow up during our meal to make sure all was good. In reviewing with everybody we decided to give it a 4-star because of the ambience and 3 of us loved their dinner. DiMillo's was recommended to us by a local and we'd recommend it too.

    DiMillo's on the water.  Calamari with marinara.
    John S.

    Monday. May 19, 2025. Dinner. A fifteen minute walk from my hotel. I visited for happy hour, arriving about 4 PM. This restaurant is on the waterfront with a gorgeous view of the ocean. I sat at the bar, facing the window that opens to the ocean and boats. My waitress was training another waitress and they were both young and perky. I ended up ordering two draft beers with my happy hour food. I don't remember the names of my beers or the cost but they were good. I ordered the Sriracha dusted fried haddock bites with apple pico de gallo, cilantro, and ancho lime aioli ($10) and fried calamari with marinara sauce ($10). These dishes came out hot and I enjoyed the kick of the haddock bites. They had the right amount of chile. I talked to some local bar patrons sitting next to me. They were good conversationalists. They worked as pollution monitors. One of them owned a boat and told me how fun it was on the water. I enjoyed a good time at the Happy Hour at DiMillo's.

    Dennis Q.

    We had such a great dinner at DeMillo's, the iconic floating restaurant right on the Portland waterfront. The baked stuffed lobster and haddock chowder did not disappoint !

    Gabriel B.

    Came to DiMillo's for a business dinner and it definitely delivers on atmosphere, housed in a converted ferry floating on the water, it gives off a cool, old-school nautical vibe that feels both historic and retro. You're not just eating dinner by the water, you're literally on it! We started with the Shell Yeah clams, and yep...shell yeah, they were great! A generous portion, mixed with chorizo and served in a rich, flavorful broth that had us reaching for bread to soak it all up. Highly recommend as a starter. From there we moved onto salads and then mains. I went with the 1 1/2 lb steamed lobster, because, well... it's Maine. Nice size, fair price, and served simply with lemon butter, the classic way. Overall, DiMillo's is a solid spot if you're in the mood for that traditional Maine seafood experience with a side of maritime nostalgia. There are a few other places in the area that I personally like a bit more, but this was a fun, unique spot to try and definitely worth checking out at least once if you're in Portland.

    Overdressed salad.

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    Absolutely delicious!!! The food, service and ambiance were incredible!! Highly recommend!!

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    DiMillo's On the Water Reviews in Other Languages

    Ask the Community - DiMillo's On the Water

    Appropriate attaire? Formal/simi/casual?

    Causal for sure!

    Would it be acceptable to bring a 1 year old? Visiting from NY and the menu looks tremendous

    Yes! Children are welcome and is a good environment for them to be in.

    Are dogs allowed at this restaurant?

    No dogs allowed

    Is it by reservation?

    Not in the afternoon when we went. Possibly in the evening?

    What is the name of the tomatoe soup?

    Gazpacho

    View All 7 Questions

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    Duckfat - OAXACAN STYLE HOUSE SMOKED BRISKET

    Duckfat

    4.3(3.4k reviews)
    0.4 mi•East Bayside
    •$$

    Amazing place for duck overall. We got the duck poutine that was delicious. The fries were well…read morecooked and crispy, the cheese curds were good and hot and not too big, the gravy was great and not overworking and the duck confit on it was soft tender and flavorful. We also got the duck Caesar salad and that was amazing. The smoked duck delicious and soft and tasted similar to pastrami. The duck yolk was also a good complement to the Caesar. The cream of tomato fennel soup was also excellent and the doughnut holes were a nice sweet treat. The staff was very nice and attentive and friendly. They were very informative of the dishes and menu. The atmosphere was lively with some dark but good visibility for both outside and inside seating. This place can get real busy with up to an hour wait potentially.

    As a poutine snob (sorry), this place has it right. Good curds, good fries and solid gravy. I…read moreprobably could've used more of it but I'm already eating way worse than I should on this trip if we're being honest. ANYWAY service is good here and we got in quicker than expected based on how full it was, even for a Sunday night. They definitely don't have issues filling tables! My only complaint is the uncomfortable chairs (nay- stools). I know they're lacking in space so they are a bit helpful in that aspect. You may be thinking; "but not all of us are fat like you" and that is true but even my thin boyfriend wasn't having the best time with them. Oh- and get the donuts. They should be selling these wayyyy more because they are truly amazing.

    Photos
    Duckfat - Inside

    Inside

    Duckfat - French Dip

    French Dip

    Duckfat - Donut with caramel sauce

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    Donut with caramel sauce

    North43Bistro - Steak and cheese egg roll of the day

    North43Bistro

    4.1(120 reviews)
    1.0 mi
    •$$

    I rarely write reviews, but I had to after our dining experience last night. Everything was perfect…read morefrom the location to the decor, and the FOOD and SERVICE was top notch as well. We are a foodie family who have been to hundreds of restaurants all around the world! The FOOD We ordered 75% of their amazing menu and every bite from the house made cornbread, pork belly, burrata salad, Swordfish, Tuna, Haddock, Sirloin, smash burger, and all [3] desserts we tried were truly amazing. Stephanie [Owner/Chef] was our server and her personality and huge smile made the meal even better. Our family has had a home in OOB for over 30yrs and we have eaten at many different restaurants in that time. We all agreed this was one of our top 5 restaurant experiences here and at home in Connecticut. The portions are huge, and the prices were shockingly reasonable for the menu and location. 10

    We were here for a private work gathering…read more What a lovely place, it's not a huge space, so for the 60ish of us, it can get a little crowded and loud. The service was incredible. The team of servers and bartenders were great. The were on the move the whole night. Offering up food, refiling drinks and passing around appetizers the whole night. All with a smile and recognizing you might not want to hold the toothpick and napkin the whole time and taking it from you before you realize you have been holding it for 10 minutes LOL The food was delicious, the views were lovely. Parking can get a little tight with the big crowds, especially in the summer. Always check ahead, or make reservations, as they do cater to a lot of private events. I hope to return at some point without work people LOL

    Photos
    North43Bistro - Inside seating

    Inside seating

    North43Bistro - Sirloin Entrée

    Sirloin Entrée

    North43Bistro - Dining area looking out

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    Dining area looking out

    The Honey Paw

    The Honey Paw

    4.3(792 reviews)
    0.4 mi•East Bayside
    •$$

    This is such a vibrant and welcoming spot. It has a modern feel with communal tables, individual…read morewindow seats, a bar, and outdoor seating. The food is great for sharing if you're on a little foodie adventure and hopping around to different spots, and they also have full meals. We really like the food here, and they have specials too. One thing we still haven't tried are the cocktails. Do not pass up the seasonal soft serve! I also remember their T-shirts being super cute. I'll probably stop by again the next time I'm up in Portland. Parking can be tricky with street parking, though there are paid lots. Overall Service: I don't think I've had a bad experience here. The last few times, our servers have been upbeat, and even the host was welcoming.

    I had a great dinner experience here last night with my partner. We love love love the honey paw!…read more For starters, it's a great location. Close to more bars for extra drinks, easy to run into other friends. Also, it's a beautiful spot with outdoor seating in the warmer months. We opted to sit outside and enjoyed khao soi, katsu pork sandwich, and the honey soft serve. The portions are generous, as we were able to share and have leftovers. Each plate had so many great textures and flavors. We did experience a long wait between ordering, getting food, and receiving the check. It was a busy summer night so I wasn't upset, but do not plan on having a quick meal here. Get cozy, get an extra drinks and enjoy your time here. Apologies, but phone did not eat first this time-no pics!

    Photos
    The Honey Paw - Restaurant

    Restaurant

    The Honey Paw - Half Fried Chicken

    Half Fried Chicken

    The Honey Paw - Honey soft serve

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    Honey soft serve

    The Highroller Lobster - The HighRoller (captured by @a.bite.of.life)

    The Highroller Lobster

    4.3(2.4k reviews)
    0.4 mi•Old Port
    •$$
    Locally owned & operated
    Outdoor seating

    Some of the best lobster I've had in Portland. It's a very chill, retro vibe, and though seating…read moremay take a while on busy nights, you can also order takeout (and merch) from the left-side area. The restaurant is larger than it looks since there's a second seating area too. I'd recommend the Flight of mini lobster rolls (3x 2oz lobster rolls), which can be chilled or warmed. Prices are fair, at about $20 a lobster roll. Their ghee butter add another level to their lobster rolls and they don't skimp on meat! Definitely try out the Highroller and maybe get some of their iconic merch.

    When me and my friend walked up, they said a table would be an hour so we opted for take-out…read more However, the table ended up taking just 30 minutes, so if you really want a table, I would say it could be worth waiting. We ended up taking out order to a park nearby that had benches so it worked out. Me and my friend shared a flight, where it included 3 lobster rolls with 2 oz. of lobster and we chose the jalapeño mayo, lime mayo, and lobster ghee ones. My favorite one was probably the jalapeño mayo because I loved the kick, but all three were delicious. I would definitely recommend getting the flight since the rolls are smaller and you get to try the different sauces.

    Photos
    The Highroller Lobster - SO GOOD. Lobster tasted so fresh and tender. Bread was hefty and a great compliment. (Lobster Roll)

    SO GOOD. Lobster tasted so fresh and tender. Bread was hefty and a great compliment. (Lobster Roll)

    The Highroller Lobster
    The Highroller Lobster - Lobster Cheese Crisp Taco, Lobster Roll

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    Lobster Cheese Crisp Taco, Lobster Roll

    Bread & Friends - Soft Scrambled Eggs ($15)

    Bread & Friends

    4.5(217 reviews)
    0.3 mi•Old Port

    We came as a group of 6 and ordered most things on the dinner menu to share. I was so inspired by…read morethe way they put ingredients together, and everything was so delicious. Everyone agreed that it was the best meal any of us had ever eaten. Service was incredible, and our waiter helped walk us through the right amount of food to order. The pacing of the dishes was perfect, and the wine was also great. Go here, order everything, don't ask questions, eat and be merry.

    we're only in maine for 4 days and came here twice! i loved the ambiance and indoor and outdoor…read moreseating options the big umbrellas are so fun. i enjoyed watching them make the pastries in the big window. you could get the items to go or be seated for a table for service inside or outside. first time around i got the iced rosemary maple coffee and the ham and cheese croissant. the coffee was great and the croissant was unbelievable. at first i was disappointed it wasn't warmed but man was this croissant SO GOOD. you could tell they made it in house it was fresh and flakey and got everywhere as soon as you took a bite. next day we came back for more pastries we got the sour cherry and pistachio pop tart and the morning bun. these were equally insane and delicious. i think the morning bun was my favorite. it was light and airy and covered in cinnamon sugar it was soft instead and moist would highly recommend giving their baked goods a go!

    Photos
    Bread & Friends - Inside

    Inside

    Bread & Friends - Morning Bun ($6)

    Morning Bun ($6)

    Bread & Friends - Seeded sourdough that comes with the soft scrambled eggs

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    Seeded sourdough that comes with the soft scrambled eggs

    Scales - Seafood stew

    Scales

    4.3(1.3k reviews)
    0.2 mi•Old Port
    •$$$

    Seafood Stew 9/10 everything in it was so flavorful and cooked perfectly. The broth had a nice…read morebite to it a little spicy so that was a nice touch. Favorite part were the muscles Halibut was Devine. Perfect dish Oysters and clams were decent. I liked the oysters a lot more than the clams. Clams are cheaper but for a good reason I think. They have a very fishy taste as the oysters tasted fresh. 5/5 a little pricy though

    There is a scam where people get a crowd of their friends to gather around so they can attract…read moredupes to come over and see what all the excitement is about. That's what Scales was like for me, busy, loud, unpleasant, and somewhere I hope I never have to go back and experience again. Reservation or not you have to line up like sheep for slaughter. Heaven forbid anyone in your party is running late because none of you will be seated until everyone is there. Super fun!!! When we were seated, I had the server station a couple feet behind me with staff calling loudly to one another. The expensive wine they served us was bad. Should have been sent back. The lobster bisque had an unpleasant taste, was overpoweringly creamy, and what little lobster was in it was not fresh and was mushy. I can't even remember what I had for a main course (Maine course?). Unremarkable. One of the salads with blue cheese in it was okay. Some of my compatriots got the stew which is a bouillabase type dish with various shellfish and some fish in it along with a tomato base with a little kick to it. Not bad. The desserts are solid. Can't go wrong with a sundae. They also have Indian pudding which is a regional dish and interesting to try. Not sure if it needs to be renamed for current norms? Other people in our group enjoyed the meal. Lining up and standing around waiting to get into hyped up noisy places with mediocre expensive food, some of it nearly inedible in this case, is always in fashion somewhere. Have at it. I'm out.

    Photos
    Scales - Beautiful !

    Beautiful !

    Scales - Endive & Stilton Salad

    Endive & Stilton Salad

    Scales - Peach & Blueberry Cobbler

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    Peach & Blueberry Cobbler

    DiMillo's On the Water - seafood - Updated September 2026

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