We go on and on and on about how great the food scene in Maine is, but there’s always room for a little more of that! Evey time we turn around there’s a new restaurant, new dish or an award-winning chef. And while you’ll find that all over the state, places like Portland certainly have a ton of them. While we appreciate all the newness, we always seem to come back to the tried-and-true spots. This one is a great example of a unique spot that’s stood the test of time.

To enjoy one of the most lovely (and talked about!) meals head to the Old Port in Portland where you’ll find Dimillo’s on the Water.

Gianluca M / TripAdvisor

But this isn’t just any Old Port eating spot. This one is a little more special. It’s a boat! Before it took on its current identity it was used to ferry cars from Delaware to New Jersey. Tony DiMillo took it over and brought it all the way to Maine where it sits on Long Wharf. And it’s been serving satisfied guests since 1982.

DiMillo’s On the Water / Facebook

In addition to being a Portland institution, it’s also one of the largest floating restaurants in America. At 206-feet long and weighing in at 701 tons, this is one big boat allowing the restaurant to seat more than 600 guests!

Larry W / TripAdvisor

And, as you can imagine, the views are absolutely stunning from just about anywhere on the boat.

Tourmaline / Google

DiMillo’s has large dining rooms on the first and second decks, which means each time you visit you’ll have a chance to enjoy the harbor from a different vantage point.

Jim T / TripAdvisor

And if you prefer the fresh, salty air they’ve got three outside decks with even more incredible views. Because this spot is open year-round, they’ve got heaters which means you can enjoy outside dining no matter the temperature. Dining here while watching boats and seagulls and smelling the ocean air is about as Maine as it gets!

Michael Doray / Google

And, of course, the food is even better than the views. Their menu is huge which means plenty of options for everyone.

DiMillo’s On The Water / Google

The seafood is a must-try! Whether you get an appetizer or full meal, you can’t miss out on the freshest fish you can find.

JimTalbott / TripAdvisor

And the lobster is a crowd favorite here! You won’t regret trying the baked lobster stuffed with crab meat. Even meat-lovers will find something to enjoy here.

Mo Na / Google

As we always say, no matter what you get, make sure you save room for dessert!

DiMillo’s On the Water / Facebook

DiMillo’s On The Water is typically open Sunday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. You can learn more about them on their website. Or, check ’em out on Facebook. Have questions? They can be reached on 207-772-2216.

Gianluca M / TripAdvisor

DiMillo’s On the Water / Facebook

Larry W / TripAdvisor

Tourmaline / Google

Jim T / TripAdvisor

Michael Doray / Google

DiMillo’s On The Water / Google

JimTalbott / TripAdvisor

Mo Na / Google

We know that restaurants like DiMillo’s carry an expectation that they’ll be filled with tourists. And while that might be true, there’s a reason some of the most popular restaurants are as beloved as they are. Here are 11 famous restaurants in Maine that are so worth waiting in line for.

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Address: DiMillo’s On The Water, 25 Long Wharf, Portland, ME 04101, USA