Updated at: 09-06-2023 - By: Craig Huey

BREAKFAST. It’s the one meal I look forward to preparing and eating the most, no matter where I am. Portland, Maine, being the foodie mecca that it is, naturally, has some fantastic places to get breakfast or brunch. Breakfast in a diner is one of my favorite meals, and I prefer it to the more “high-end” and trendy options. For my morning meal, the less complicated, the better. You’ll get more for your money, and you won’t have to worry about going hungry. Breakfast restaurants are easy to come by in Portland. So, here’s a piece of advice for everyone: if you’re going to eat breakfast at a restaurant in Portland, get there early. Popular brunch spots often reach capacity shortly after opening. Waits begin forming at even the least popular eateries as early as 9:30am. Usually, my boyfriend and I try to arrive at the breakfast spot we’ve chosen within the first hour that they’re open.

And now, without further ado, here is my pick of the top places to get breakfast in Portland, Maine. Have a good meal!

The 5 Best Breakfast Restaurants in Portland, Maine:

1. Miss Portland Diner

When it comes to weekend breakfasts (they’re open during the week, too!), Miss Portland is now your new favorite spot. I can now confidently claim that these biscuits and gravy have won my boyfriend over. It’s also worth keeping an eye out for the incredible one-off dishes that they occasionally offer in addition to the regular menu items.

They once dined on a breakfast flatbread topped with three sunny-side-up eggs, bacon, cheese, roasted onions, and cheese. The restaurant breakfast was the best I’ve ever had, hands down. Plus, their bloody marys are out of this world. Diner cars are always a good time, and they serve delicious food at reasonable prices. You won’t be let down at all.

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According to Facebook

2. Artemisia Cafe

This establishment, located in downtown Portland, is the cutest little cafe ever. Artemisia Cafe is a hidden gem, tucked away only a few blocks from the hustle and bustle of the city center. They take the freshest ingredients and turn them into artisan dishes that highlight the more traditional aspects of breakfast. The kielbasa and the vegetable hash are both unique and delicious. Perfectly toasted bread is included with every dish. Brunch is served on the weekends from 9 am to 2 pm, and breakfast is served weekdays from 9 am to 11 am (plus 11 am to 2 pm).

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Toasted Salmon hash, what a novel idea! Origin: Facebook

3. Hot Suppa

This is one of those “high-end” breakfast spots I alluded to in the introduction, and it certainly lives up to its reputation. The omelette at Hot Suppa, a southern-themed restaurant and bar, was the lightest and creamiest I’ve ever had.

The pricey brunch menu at what is widely considered to be the best restaurant in town is well worth it. It never occurred to me to try chicken and biscuits until my boyfriend ordered them, and holy cow, they were delicious. The restaurant is small, so it’s best to arrive early.

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The chicken and biscuits my boyfriend ordered at Hot Suppa, with my delicious French omelette in the foreground.

4. Dutch’s

Dutch’s is an eccentric breakfast joint off of Portland’s main drag, Congress Street. There’s an interesting menu to go along with the equally intriguing decor. Don’t be fooled by appearances, though; the food is excellent. Picture a warm slice of grilled banana bread topped with a generous helping of caramel sauce. Hash browns are mashed potatoes that have been reshaped into large squares and then fried. Every visit to Dutch’s is a delightful treat, despite the (in my opinion) somewhat high prices.

 

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According to Facebook

5. Bayside American Cafe

The time you arrive is crucial for a good breakfast in Portland, so I can’t stress that enough. Unfortunately, my boyfriend and I wasted nearly half an hour of our time waiting in line because we got a late start that morning. Everything on the menu is excellent, and there is a lot of variety to choose from. My order was bourbon maple sauce on pancakes topped with bacon, cheddar, and scallions. As you can see, I was trying something new for breakfast and not just sticking to my usual hash or scramble routine. It was delicious, but I’m looking forward to trying something new the next time around.

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The American Bayside Cafe’s cinnamon roll pancakes are to die for. A Facebook post serves as the source.

I haven’t had the chance to visit any of these yet, but I’ve heard nothing but praise for them.

The address for Ruski’s is 212 Danforth Street, Portland, Maine 04102.

As a side note, if you’re craving breakfast pizza, you must visit the tiny Scarborough convenience store called 8 Corners Pizza.