Scales occupies a prime position on Commercial Street in Portland, Maine, where the Old Port meets the working waterfront, and its expansive raw bar and wood-fired seafood menu reflect that proximity to the sea. The restaurant opened in 2016 and quickly established itself as one of Portland's most versatile dining destinations — sophisticated enough for a special evening but relaxed enough for a long lunch watching fishing boats unload nearby. The raw bar program centers on New England oysters, Jonah crab claws, lobster cocktail, and chilled shrimp, served in the classic New England tradition with horseradish and cocktail sauce. Grilled and wood-fired preparations give the main courses a smoky depth: swordfish, halibut, and whole fish from Maine waters arrive off the grill with seasonal accompaniments. The clam chowder — cream-based, potato-rich, and finished with fresh herbs — is among the most consistent in Portland. The dining room spans two levels, with the lower floor close to Commercial Street and the upper level offering elevated views over the harbor. The wine list is broad, with particular strength in coastal white wines from France and the Pacific Northwest that suit the seafood-forward menu. Reservations via Resy are recommended for dinner, though the bar seats walk-ins and is a popular after-work gathering point.
Signature dishes
- Jonah crab claws ($22)
- Grilled swordfish ($38)
- Lobster bisque ($14)
- New England clam chowder ($16)
Good to know
- Known for
- Raw bar and wood-fired seafood on Portland's working waterfront
- Hours
- Daily 11:30–22:00
- Reservations
- Recommended; book via Resy or call (207) 805-0444
Location
68 Commercial Street, Portland, ME 04101
43.6576, -70.2558 View on map
Highlights
- Expansive raw bar with New England oysters, Jonah crab claws, and lobster cocktail
- Wood-fired and grilled preparations of Maine day-boat seafood as dinner anchors
- Commercial Street location on Portland's working waterfront with harbor views
- Reliable cream-based clam chowder with fresh herbs among Portland's best
- Dual-level dining room and a bar popular with Portland's after-work crowd
Tips for visiting
- The raw bar is best experienced at lunch when the pace is slower and the harbor light is brightest
- Reserve for dinner on weekend evenings; the bar accepts walk-ins and is comfortable for waiting
- The Jonah crab claws are underrated compared to the lobster cocktail — both are worth ordering
- Upper-level tables offer the best harbor views; request one when booking via Resy
- Coastal white wines — Muscadet, Chablis, Oregon Pinot Gris — pair well with the raw bar
Accessibility
Scales is a multi-level restaurant; the lower dining room and bar on Commercial Street are accessible from the street, while the upper level is reached by stairs. Guests with mobility needs should request lower-level seating when making a reservation.
Frequently asked questions
Does Scales have a raw bar?
Yes; the raw bar is one of the restaurant's anchors, featuring a rotating selection of New England oysters, Jonah crab claws, lobster cocktail, and chilled shrimp.
What are the most praised dishes at Scales?
The raw bar selections, wood-grilled swordfish, and clam chowder receive the most consistent praise. The Jonah crab claws offer particularly good value.
Does Scales accept walk-ins?
Walk-ins are welcome at the bar and at available tables; dinner reservations via Resy are recommended for weekend evenings.
What is the price range at Scales?
Scales is in the $$$ range; a dinner of raw bar, an entrée, and wine typically runs $70–$100 per person before gratuity.
Is Scales open for lunch?
Yes; Scales serves lunch daily from 11:30, making it one of the few upscale-casual Portland waterfront restaurants available at midday.