Best Cheap American Restaurants in Portland | Cheap American Food

30 restaurants in Best Cheap American Restaurants in Portland | Cheap American Food

• Cape Whoopies — American · rated 5/5: Step into a whimsical sanctuary where the nostalgic aroma of cocoa and sweet cream fills the air, celebrating Maine’s iconic treat with an artisanal flourish. Each handcrafted creation pairs velvety, cloud-like cakes with decadent fillings ranging from classic vanilla bean to bold espresso, elevating the humble whoopie pie into a sophisticated indulgence. Every bite offers a playful yet refined journey through New England’s most beloved dessert tradition, perfect for those seeking a modern twist on a timeless comfort.
• Wilson County Barbecue — American · rated 5/5: The air at Wilson County Barbecue hangs heavy with the sweet, lingering perfume of hickory smoke, drawing diners into a space where the storied traditions of Eastern North Carolina take center stage. The satisfying snap of golden crackling meets the zesty brightness of vinegar-laced pork, creating a soulful dining experience that feels like a sun-drenched afternoon gathered around a rural pitmaster’s table.
• Gritty McDuff's — American · rated 4/5: This lively brewpub hums with the spirited energy of a neighborhood gathering spot, where the golden glow of pint glasses meets the irresistible aroma of bubbling cheese and toasted pretzels. Heaping plates of Irish nachos and crispy, sauce-tossed wings anchor the table, inviting friends to linger over shared bites of savory comfort and hearty pub fare. It is a place where the rhythmic clink of glasses and the warmth of a well-worn booth create a quintessential social experience that feels both timeless and welcoming.
• Novare Res — American · rated 4/5: Hidden within a secluded urban courtyard, this spirited sanctuary hums with the energy of a secret garden where an unrivaled library of global draughts, rare bottles, and crisp ciders flows freely. The experience is anchored by a sense of discovery and camaraderie, especially when the air fills with the savory steam of a Barney’s Boils kitchen takeover, inviting guests to linger over exceptional pours and communal feasts.
• Tomaso's Canteen — Italian · rated 4/5: Stepping into this spirited neighborhood haunt feels like a nostalgic journey, where the dim glow of neon and the rich aroma of slow-simmered marinara create an atmosphere of unpretentious warmth. It is a place where cold beers and hearty Italian-American comfort food bring people together, offering a soulful dining experience that honors tradition with every savory, red-sauce-drenched bite.
• LB Kitchen — American · rated 4/5: Sun-drenched and spirited, LB Kitchen serves as a vibrant neighborhood sanctuary where the aroma of artisanal coffee meets a menu of bright, wholesome breakfast and lunch creations. Each plate is a colorful celebration of seasonal vitality, offering a nourishing dining experience that balances modern culinary flair with the comforting, welcoming warmth of a community kitchen.
• Wayside Tavern — American · rated 4/5: Wayside Tavern captures the spirit of a refined coastal retreat, where the inviting warmth of a neighborhood haunt meets a sophisticated menu of elevated tavern fare. The kitchen artfully balances briny freshness with decadent richness, weaving together textures like golden beer-battered cod cheeks, broiled Maine oysters, and the velvet luxury of foie gras truffles. It is a space designed for lingering over vibrant salads and savory small plates, where every bite feels like a thoughtful celebration of both land and sea.
• Flat Iron Coffee Bar — American · rated 4/5: Steeped in urban charm, this sleek coffee destination blends industrial textures with the warm, nutty aroma of expertly roasted beans that fills the air. Guests can settle into the minimalist space to enjoy velvety micro-foam lattes and buttery, golden-brown pastries, finding a vibrant neighborhood hub where the art of the pour-over meets a relaxed, contemporary energy.
• Belleflower Brewing — American · rated 4/5: Belleflower Brewing unfolds as a lively, sun-drenched haven where the rhythmic pull of the tap handles releases a kaleidoscope of artisanal brews into waiting glasses. The experience spans the sensory spectrum, from the refreshing snap of a chilled lager and the bold, resinous punch of a double dry-hopped IPA to the whimsical tartness of small-batch sours and the comforting, chocolatey weight of a midnight-dark stout. It is a communal retreat that celebrates the craft of the pour, inviting friends to gather amidst the gleaming fermentation tanks and savor the vibrant soul of the local brewing scene.
• Bramhall — American · rated 4/5: Descend into a subterranean sanctuary where flickering candlelight dances across rugged stone walls and the warmth of a roaring fireplace anchors the moody, intimate space. The kitchen transforms classic comfort into an art form, serving up soul-warming fare and craft spirits that invite long, whispered conversations in the shadows of this hidden neighborhood gem.
• Katie Made Bakery — American · rated 4/5: Sunlight dances across flour-dusted counters in this inviting neighborhood nook, where the intoxicating aroma of warm butter and caramelized sugar beckons passersby from the sidewalk. Glass cases overflow with an artisanal bounty of flaky pastries and decadent layered cakes, offering a sanctuary of sweetness where every bite feels like a celebration of simple, heartfelt baking.
• Evo Kitchen & Bar — American · rated 4/5: Evo Kitchen & Bar pulses with a sophisticated energy, where the warm glow of amber lighting and the rhythmic shake of craft cocktails create an inviting backdrop for modern social dining. The kitchen artfully balances bold, seasonal flavors with refined techniques, delivering a parade of vibrant, thoughtfully composed plates that invite guests to linger and savor every shared moment.
• The Great Lost Bear — American · rated 3/5: This lively neighborhood institution hums with the spirited energy of a classic American tavern, where walls adorned with eclectic memorabilia and the warm glow of neon beer signs create a welcoming, unpretentious retreat. Towering, juicy burgers and baskets of crispy, sauce-drenched wings pair perfectly with an expansive forest of tap handles pouring the region’s finest craft brews. It is a place where the clinking of heavy pint glasses and the savory aroma of comfort food invite friends to linger long into the evening over a shared love of local flavor.
• Two Fat Cats — American · rated 3/5: Stepping into this whimsical neighborhood bakery feels like a warm embrace, where the air is perpetually perfumed with the scent of toasted sugar and golden, buttery pastry cooling on the counter. Flour-dusted artisans breathe new life into nostalgic American classics, crafting sky-high fruit pies and velvety whoopie pies that capture the soulful, scratch-made essence of a traditional country kitchen.
• Night Moves Bread — American · rated 3/5: The air here is thick with the intoxicating, toasted perfume of stone-milled grains and sourdough loaves emerging from the oven with deep, mahogany crusts. It is a sanctuary of slow fermentation and artisanal craft, where the simple beauty of a hand-shaped boule or a buttery, seasonal pastry honors the rugged spirit of local agriculture in every bite.
• Big Sky Bread Company — American · rated 3/5: The air at Big Sky Bread Company is thick with the comforting, yeasty perfume of loaves browning in the oven, drawing guests into a sun-drenched space where flour-dusted counters and rustic wooden racks showcase the day’s artisanal bounty. Every slice celebrates traditional craftsmanship, from the crackling, golden crusts of sourdough to the soft, honey-sweetened crumb of whole-grain specialties that anchor wholesome sandwiches and morning toasts. It is a neighborhood sanctuary of simple pleasures, where the rhythmic sound of slicing bread and the warmth of a fresh-baked boule create an experience that feels like a return to the heart of a country kitchen.
• Duckfat — American: The air at Duckfat is thick with the irresistible, savory perfume of golden Belgian frites sizzling in their namesake rendered fat, drawing diners into a bustling space where indulgence is elevated to an art form. Beyond the legendary cones of truffle-scented fries, the kitchen turns out rustic treasures like velvety rabbit rillettes and crispy salt cod croquettes that celebrate the marriage of decadent technique and honest ingredients. It is a sanctuary of soul-warming comfort, where every dish is infused with a rich, artisanal depth that lingers long after the final bite.
• East Ender — American: This vibrant neighborhood gathering spot hums with energy, where the briny freshness of chilled oysters finds a playful companion in the golden, decadent crunch of deep-fried deviled eggs. Guests settle into the warm, inviting space to share plates of earthy sunchoke dip and crispy, salt-dusted potatoes, all while the savory aroma of toasted garlic bread and glazed wings drifts through the air to create a soulful, elevated comfort food experience.
• Another Round — American: Sunlight streams into this minimalist coffee haven, where the rhythmic hiss of the espresso machine and the deep, nutty scent of roasting beans create a serene backdrop for the morning rush. Artfully poured lattes and crisp espresso tonics showcase a dedication to the craft, while signature creations like the Smokey Orange Latte offer a bold, aromatic twist for those seeking a sophisticated caffeine escape.
• Two Fat Cats Bakery West End — American: The air inside this charming neighborhood bakery is thick with the comforting aroma of toasted cinnamon and buttery, golden-brown crusts emerging fresh from the oven. Guests can linger over a savory morning toastie or dive into the jammy, purple heart of a wild Maine blueberry pie, where every bite feels like a nostalgic tribute to classic American craftsmanship.
• Cheese Louise — American: Golden-brown crusts and ribbons of molten cheese take center stage at this vibrant haunt, where the nostalgic aroma of sizzling butter invites guests into a world of elevated comfort food. Creative handhelds like the maple-sweetened Vermonter and the bold Blue Buffalo find their perfect match in velvety bowls of house-made tomato soup, creating a soul-warming symphony of textures and flavors. It is a playful sanctuary of indulgence, where every toasted masterpiece and crispy side dish celebrates the simple, gooey joy of the ultimate cheese experience.
• Fore Street Restaurant — American: The air at Fore Street is thick with the intoxicating scent of hardwood smoke and roasting meats, drawing guests toward the glowing hearth that serves as the restaurant’s beating heart. Here, the rugged bounty of Maine is transformed over open flames, from brine-kissed mussels sizzling in the wood oven to succulent turnspit-roasted pork and hanger steaks charred to perfection. The result is a soulful, communal dining experience where artisanal house-made charcuterie and farm-fresh greens find a perfect balance against the primal, smoky intensity of the kitchen’s craftsmanship.
• Henny's — American: Henny’s wraps guests in the nostalgic warmth of a neighborhood sanctuary, where the golden glow of the rotisserie and the fragrance of rosemary-infused jus set the stage for a soulful meal. Each plate celebrates the beauty of simple, honest cooking, pairing succulent meats with garden-fresh harvests in a space that feels both effortlessly chic and deeply welcoming.
• Pizzaiolo — Italian: The air at Pizzaiolo is thick with the irresistible scent of toasted garlic and bubbling cheese, drawing guests into a space that feels like a warm, neighborhood embrace. Golden, buttery garlic knots and hearty meatball subs anchored by "Mama’s" secret recipe offer a soulful taste of tradition, while crisp, vibrant salads provide a refreshing counterpoint to plates of steaming pasta. It is a quintessential local haunt where the comfort of classic Italian-American fare and a welcoming atmosphere create the perfect backdrop for a relaxed, lingering meal.
• Rí Ra Irish Pub & Restaurant - Portland — American: Stepping into this waterfront sanctuary feels like a journey across the Atlantic, where salvaged Irish timber and cozy, tucked-away snugs create a sanctuary of warmth against the salty Maine breeze. The air hums with spirited conversation and the rhythmic clink of perfectly poured pints, as the kitchen serves up soul-warming classics that bridge the gap between rugged coastal charm and traditional Celtic hospitality.
• Tandem Bakery — American: This sun-drenched neighborhood gem invites guests into a space where the intoxicating aroma of freshly baked sourdough and sweet, buttery laminated dough lingers in the air. Artisanal loaves with crackling crusts sit alongside delicate, fruit-studded pastries, offering a sensory celebration of flour and fire that turns a simple morning ritual into a moment of pure indulgence.
• Coffee By Design (CBD) — American: This vibrant sanctuary pulses with the rich, toasted aroma of small-batch roasting, inviting guests into a space where the craft of the bean takes center stage. From the velvety, golden crown of the Espresso Bella Crema to the bright, floral clarity of a meticulously poured Chemex, every cup celebrates the complex terroir of global harvests ranging from the honeyed Uganda Sironko to the fruit-forward Ethiopia Ardi. It is an artisanal haven where the bold spirit of the Rebel Blend and the nuanced notes of the Western Ghats transform the daily caffeine ritual into an evocative exploration of flavor.
• Rwanda Bean Coffee — American: Step into a vibrant sanctuary where the rich, earthy aroma of premium East African beans fills the air, inviting guests to slow down and savor the soulful essence of Rwanda. The experience unfolds through a spectrum of meticulously roasted pours, ranging from the bright, uplifting notes of a blonde roast to the deep, velvety intensity of the signature Virunga espresso. Each cup serves as a bridge to distant hillsides, offering a warm and purposeful atmosphere where every sip feels like a celebration of heritage and community.
• The Crooked Mile Cafe — American: Sun-drenched and soulful, this neighborhood sanctuary welcomes guests with the comforting hum of a busy espresso machine and the rustic charm of a space built for lingering. Artisanal sandwiches on crusty, hand-baked bread pair with steaming mugs of craft coffee to create a midday escape that feels both timeless and intimately local.
• Central Provisions — American: Housed in a historic brick-and-beam space, this vibrant eatery pulses with energy as guests gather around a bustling open kitchen to witness a masterclass in small-plate artistry. The experience unfolds through a parade of bold, contrasting flavors, from the delicate brightness of citrus-kissed tuna crudo and sweet crab salad to the decadent, crackling richness of slow-roasted suckling pig. Even the simplest pleasures are elevated here, where warm, artisanal bread paired with cultured butter sets the stage for a meal that celebrates both rustic soul and modern culinary precision.