Iconic Spot Named ‘Best Casual Restaurant’ in Maine

This Maine restaurant, which has been open for nearly 50 years, was recently named the ‘best casual restaurant’ in the state!

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Listen, Mainers have a way of nailing 'casual.' We're not overly eccentric—just effortlessly cool when we want to be. So, what makes a restaurant 'casual?’ It's pretty much the opposite of 'fancy,' right?

But what does ‘best casual restaurant’ even mean? What are the criteria for consideration? And what are people looking for in such a title?

The Daily Meal's methodology for identifying the best casual restaurant in each state focused on affordability, ensuring two people could dine for under $50 (excluding tip and alcohol).

The Daily Meal also considered factors like a comfortable ambiance, destination-worthy status, reputation, and longevity.

Using rankings of America’s best casual dining spots and iconic food categories like pizza and burgers, they curated a diverse list showcasing the nation’s top casual spots.

With those questions in mind, which restaurant in our Pine Tree State has earned the title of ‘best casual restaurant?’

According to The Daily Meal and their article, ‘The Best Casual Restaurant in Every State,’ Maine's ‘best casual restaurant’ is J's Oyster in Portland! The Daily Meal had this to say about their selection:

Sure, it's touristy, but the tourists are there for all the right reasons: The no-frills J's is located right on the wharf and has a huge bar, a wide selection of oysters, and world-class lobster rolls. For $13, you get a toasted hot dog bun, some lettuce, and a pile of fresh-picked lobster meat, and that's it. A couple packets of mayo and a container of butter come on the side so you can dress it up yourself, but the real star of the show here is the lobster, served with as few bells and whistles as possible. And thankfully it's not too filling, so you can also get your fill of steamers, whole belly clams served in a big bucket.

So, there you have it—J’s Oyster, which has been serving folks for nearly 50 years, has been named the ‘best casual restaurant’ in Maine!

What are your thoughts on The Daily Meal’s pick? Do you agree, or would you have chosen a different spot? We’d love to hear from you! Join the conversation by messaging us on the app.