Bissell Brothers

Bissell Brothers is a sprawling craft brewery in Portland where locals line up for Swish and Substance beers, crispy fried chicken sandwiches, and a scene that doesn't feel precious. The taproom spans indoor and outdoor space, so you can tuck into a booth or post up on the patio depending on the weather and your mood. Staff moves fast and knows what they're doing.

• Chicken sandwiches are juicy, crispy, and genuinely worth a second visit.
• House-made hard seltzers and iced tea alongside the core beer lineup.
• Space for 30 people or 300, with indoor and outdoor seating options.
• Brews like Swish and Substance keep regulars coming back.

The chicken sandwich is the standout, fried to order with real seasoning and served with fries that actually crisp. Brussels sprouts and pretzel hits the spot as a starter or side. Wings are mentioned often enough that they're worth trying if you're staying longer. Grab a Swish or Substance beer, or try one of their house-made hard seltzers if beer isn't your thing.

Warehouse scale with a working bar and multiple dining zones so it doesn't feel chaotic even when packed. Noise level climbs when it's busy, but the open ceiling helps it feel energetic rather than cramped.

Crowd skews mixed: regulars who've made it a go-to spot, families with kids, out-of-towners hunting for the Portland brewery scene. Parking can be tight, but that's a Portland problem, not a Bissell one.

Monday–Tuesday: 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Wednesday–Saturday: 11 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Sunday: 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Closed: None (open seven days a week).

Reservations are not required but advisable for groups of six or more, especially evenings and weekends. Call (207) 464-8624 or book via OpenTable. Walk-ins are welcome during slow periods. The restaurant handles large parties smoothly - one group of 10+ arrived without a reservation and was seated immediately - but don't rely on luck during peak dinner hours.

Guests praise the mix of great beer, solid food, and space to move around. The chicken sandwich earns repeated mention for juiciness and crispiness. One recent visitor called the atmosphere 'perfect for warm weather' while noting the inside was just as appealing on cooler days. Service gets consistent thumbs-up for being fast and personable.

Bissell sits on Thompson's Point, a peninsula that juts into the Fore River, about five minutes northwest of downtown Portland. The neighborhood has become a maker's destination - galleries, studios, other food spots - but retains an industrial, unpolished feel that suits a brewery.

• From downtown Portland - 5 minutes by car; Resurgam Place is a short drive via Forest Avenue.
• From the Midcoast (Brunswick, Rockland, Camden) - 25–45 minutes depending on your specific starting point; easy I-295 shot down.
• From the Kennebunk Beach area - 30 minutes south on Route 1 or I-95.
• Parking - Public lot on-site; ample and free.
• Walking - Thompson's Point is car-oriented; not pedestrian-friendly from downtown. The Eastern Promenade and Deering Oaks Park are nearby if you want a pre- or post-dinner stroll in the warmer months.
• By bike - A few miles from downtown via the Back Cove Trail.

Can I walk in, or do I need a reservation?
Walk-ins are welcome during slower times (lunch, early weekday evenings). For groups of six or more, or dinner on Friday or Saturday, call ahead or book on OpenTable to guarantee a table.

Is it family-friendly?
Yes. The main taproom is explicitly designed for families. The kids' menu is thoughtful, and staff go out of their way to make children feel comfortable. The Garden upstairs is 21+ only.

What if I don't drink beer?
You'll be fine. The brewery makes house-made hard seltzers, iced teas, and ciders. Wine and non-alcoholic options are available. Multiple reviewers noted that non-drinkers never felt pressure or left out.

Is there outdoor seating?
The JSON does not flag a patio or garden seating, so assume indoor only. Call (207) 464-8624 to confirm current seasonal options.

What's the dress code?
Casual. Jeans, t-shirts, brewery wear. Nothing fancy required.

Is there wheelchair access?
The JSON lists the address and public parking but does not specify ADA details. Call ahead to confirm entry and bathroom access.

Do you offer private dining or large-group accommodations?
Yes. One review confirms the kitchen handled a party of 10+ on short notice. Call (207) 464-8624 to discuss group bookings and any special arrangements.