June · 6 Days in Maine · Portland

At the start of June, I carved out a week of vacation for myself and drove up to Maine. My original plan was to make a “pilgrimage” to Acadia National Park—the only one of its kind in the Eastern US (aka to look at trees, step on grass, and spot birds). But once I got there, I realized: places that make you slow down aren’t just limited to national parks. My first nice surprise? It came straight from Portland. Portland is a small city with only around 300,000 residents. Its climate means short summers and long winters—perfect for a summer getaway, but not quite ideal for most people to settle down long-term. Going into the trip, I had zero plans for food, figuring I’d just go with the flow. But to my surprise, nearly every restaurant I tried was on par with those in New York—from the quality of the dishes and the restaurant ambiance, to the creativity in plating and focus on fresh ingredients. (Though to be fair, the prices were just as steep too, lolll.) I’d easily give them an 8/10! What’s more, Portland has had ties with Europe since the 16th century, so the buildings in its old town are incredibly charming. Add in the rolling, hilly terrain, and wandering through the streets feels almost like strolling down a little lane in Quebec—cozy and full of character. 🚶♂️ Food Stops Brekkie Bread & Friends: The perfect spot for a lazy morning! Their fresh-baked breads and hearty breakfast dishes hit just right—warm, comforting, and made with love. 🥐🍳 LB Kitchen (Lunch): A go-to for a light but satisfying lunch. Think vibrant, farm-to-table bowls, fresh salads, and sandwiches packed with local ingredients—every bite tastes like summer. 🥗 The Honey Paw (Dinner): Hands down a highlight for dinner! Their creative takes on New England flavors (with a fun twist) are unforgettable—each dish is thoughtfully crafted, and the vibe is casual yet lively. 🍽️ Gross Confection Bar (Dessert): Don’t let the name fool you—this place serves amazing desserts! From rich chocolate treats to fruity, flaky pastries, it’s the perfect way to end a day of exploring. 🍰 #MaineTravel #PortlandMaine #PortlandMaineFood