Old Port Sea Grill and Raw Bar

Soon after opening its doors in the fall of 2002, the Old Port Sea Grill & Raw Bar became an instant classic on the Portland dining scene. In particular, it's extensive, attractively arranged and always fresh raw oyster bar is one of the best on the southern Maine coast. The restaurant's interior is decidedly upscale but also very intimate and comfortable. Inside, diners are welcomed by a large lounge area, a custom concrete bar and a 250 gallon salt water fish tank. However, the true star of this show is the seafood. The Old Port Sea Grill focuses on simple, fresh ingredients that bring out true, tantalizing flavors of their seafood offerings. Highlights include Local Monkfish with fennel, white wine, onions, capers, basil and cured tomatoes; Local Hake that is pan seared and served with chick peas, saffron, white wine and wild mussels; and Faroe Island Salmon that is grilled and includes roasted cauliflower, leek and pancetta soffrito, salsa verde and olives.