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Best American Restaurants in Cape Elizabeth

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70 restaurants available nearby

How are Featured results ranked

A photo of David's 388 restaurant
1. David's 388
4.7
Exceptional(1564)
$$$$
• American • South Portland
Booked 13 times today
David's 388 in South Portland shines as a beacon of Contemporary American cuisine, offering a delightful blend of creative and traditional flavors. This cozy neighborhood haven, crafted "by the Chef, for the Chef," features a dynamic menu that keeps diners returning for more. Its dishes, like the seafood pappardelle and cumin salmon, receive rave reviews for being "absolutely delicious" and "expertly done." The warm and inviting atmosphere, paired with attentive service from staff like Lexi and Faye, makes every visit memorable. David's 388 is a "fantastic experience" where "the food is always spectacular," making it a must-visit for food enthusiasts.
A photo of Shade restaurant
2. Shade
4.5
Awesome(381)
$$$$
• American • Scarborough
Shade, nestled in the charming locale of Scarborough, is a beacon of authentic American cuisine. With its "outstanding" Atlantic Fish Chowder and delectable lobster scampi linguine, this eatery delights diners with its well-executed, fresh offerings. Guests rave about the "amazing" food presentation and the ever-changing specials, like the smoked scallop dip and seasonal vegetarian pasta. Shade’s vibrant ambiance, complemented by its inviting three-season porch, offers a perfect setting for savoring meals crafted with locally sourced ingredients. With "exceptional service" and a friendly team, Shade ensures a memorable dining experience, making it a must-visit for American food enthusiasts.
A photo of Scales restaurant
3. Scales
4.9
Exceptional(7554)
$$$$
• American • Portland
Booked 128 times today
Scales in Portland offers an exemplary American dining experience with a special nod to New England's culinary heritage. Nestled on Maine Wharf, this restaurant combines traditional American seafood delicacies with modern touches, all while providing diners with a breathtaking view of a bustling Maine harbor. Guests rave about the "phenomenal service" and "amazing food," highlighting dishes like the halibut and seafood stew as unforgettable. "The best in Portland," Scales consistently delivers with its creative presentations and locally sourced ingredients. Whether you're a local or visiting, Scales is a must-try destination for authentic and high-quality American cuisine.
A photo of Fore Street restaurant
4. Fore Street
4.9
Exceptional(4619)
$$$$
• American • Portland
Booked 72 times today
Fore Street in Portland's Old Port District is a seafood lover's paradise, renowned for its authentic and high-quality seafood offerings. This celebrated restaurant, “ranked as one of the Top Fifty in the United States by Gourmet Magazine,” is known for its commitment to locally sourced ingredients. Diners rave about the freshness and richness of the seafood, particularly praising the mussels as “the best I’ve ever had.” With a menu that changes daily, reflecting the peak of each ingredient’s season, Fore Street creates a culinary experience that is as fresh as it is unforgettable, making it a must-visit for seafood enthusiasts.
A photo of David's Restaurant restaurant
5. David's Restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(4081)
$$$$
• American • Portland
Booked 16 times today
David's Restaurant in Portland is a shining example of authentic American cuisine, celebrated for its "delicious meals and warm, friendly service." Located in the heart of the historic arts district, this local favorite enchants with its eclectic decor and energetic ambiance. Diners rave about its inventive twists on classic American dishes, such as the "incredible meatloaf dinner" and "fresh, creatively prepared seafood." Chef David, voted Portland's best chef in 2021, ensures each dish is a masterpiece, offering options for gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan diners. With consistent praise for both food and service, it's clear why David's is a must-visit destination for American culinary delights.
A photo of The Grill Room & Bar restaurant
6. The Grill Room & Bar
4.6
Exceptional(1280)
$$$$
• American • Portland
Booked 17 times today
Opened by local chef/owner Harding Lee Smith & located in the heart of the historic Old Port, The Grill Room & Bar, has been a staple in Portland's burgeoning food since 2008. An open kitchen concept featuring locally sourced french inspired plates makes this "urban steakhouse" a distinctive dining experience for any occasion. Enjoy Chef Entrees or the A la Carte Menu. In addition, The Grill Room Bar offers a generous variety of wine, local beer & handcrafted cocktails. Stop in from 4-6pm Tuesday - Saturday for Happy Hour Small Bites & Drinks. The patio is pet friendly and is available for seating on a weather dependent basis. The Grill Room is joined by Portland sister restaurants The Front Room & Corner Room & The Mountain Room & Last Run Room @ Sunday River Ski Resort... Walk-ins are welcome although reservations are highly recommended.Large parties are encouraged to call the restaurant directly @ 207 774 2333 or email thegrillroom@gmail.com for reservation needs.
A photo of elizabeth restaurant
7. elizabeth
new
4.6
Exceptional(52)
$$$$
• American • Portland
Booked 10 times today
French inspired wine and small(ish) plates bar located at 47 wharf street.
A photo of Thames Landing restaurant
8. Thames Landing
4.5
Awesome(163)
$$$$
• American • Portland
Booked 7 times today
Thames Landing offers an exquisite seafood experience in the heart of Portland, making it a must-visit for seafood enthusiasts. Known for its modern New England fare, the restaurant delights with dishes like the perfectly seasoned lobster rolls and the mouthwatering mussel appetizer, celebrated for its "most delicious sauce." Diners rave about the "lobster mushroom risotto," describing it as a standout dish that embodies authenticity and fresh, local flavors. With its airy dining room and cozy garden patio, Thames Landing provides not only exceptional seafood but also a welcoming atmosphere, ensuring a memorable meal with every visit.
A photo of The Front Room restaurant
9. The Front Room
4.5
Awesome(546)
$$$$
• American • Portland
Booked 10 times today
Nestled in Portland's Munjoy Hill neighborhood, The Front Room is a true haven for comfort food enthusiasts, offering an exceptional dining experience that "can't keep us away." Known for its meticulously prepared dishes like the Braised Shortrib and Roasted Pork Loin with JJ's famous bacon jam, every plate is a testament to "outstanding" culinary expertise. The restaurant expertly balances flavors, with "perfectly balanced" and "extraordinarily good" meals complemented by a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Whether you're indulging in their renowned brunch or savoring a relaxed dinner, The Front Room ensures a "superlative meal" that leaves diners eager to return.
A photo of Franciska restaurant
10. Franciska
4.8
Exceptional(120)
$$$$
• American • Portland
Booked 4 times today
Franciska is a wine bar dedicated to Argentine Bodegón cuisine, a culinary tradition deeply rooted in Spanish and Italian influences brought by immigrants to Buenos Aires at the turn of the century. In our intimate 20-seat space in Portland’s Old Port, we bring people together over thoughtfully crafted dishes made with New England-sourced ingredients and house-made specialties. Please note: Table reservations are for guests joining us for dinner at Franciska. For wine tastings or drinks only, our bar is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Cancellations made within 24 hours of your reservation, or no-shows, will incur a charge of $25 per person. Thank you for understanding and supporting our small restaurant.
‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Basil
    Greater Boston •43 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Fabulous! We booked a family graduation party based on previous reviews. Arrived much too early and they were already set for us. We were seated immediately and it just got better from there. The service was attentive without hovering and the food was thoughtfully prepared and presented. Just the nicest time.
    More info
    David's Restaurant$$$$• Contemporary American• Portland
    •
    4.8
  • Julie
    New York City •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    We have eaten at Scales numerous times when we have visited our daughter at college. This time, as all the others, the food was excellent, the service friendly and efficient, the ambiance relaxing and pleasing with the harbor view. We had marvelous corn muffins and fried octopus appetizers -yum. I chose Halibut with pecans! Also came with potatoes and got broccolini w bacon on the side; So delicious. The carrot cake for dessert was the perfect ender to share. And it wasn’t too sweet. Of course the meal wasn’t cheap, note that vegetables are generally an extra side. But we knew this going in.
    More info
    Scales$$$$• Seafood• Portland
    •
    4.9
  • Michael
    Maine •12 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    The food is always consistently delicious. For a small kitchen, they can put out a lot of plates, the chefs have it down to a science keeping everything running smoothly. Chefs & staff are always attentive & professional.
    More info
    David's 388$$$$• Bistro• South Portland
    •
    4.7
  • Gary
    Virginia •4 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    Superb dinner experience in all respects. Table of 6 and all of us could not have been happier!
    More info
    Fore Street$$$$• Contemporary American• Portland
    •
    4.9
  • Betsy
    Greater Boston •62 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Oct 9, 2025
    Such a fun relaxed setting with good food and incredibly friendly service!!
    More info
    Shade$$$$• Seafood• Scarborough
    •
    4.5

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