Butcher Burger Old Port in Portland, Maine

Butcher Burger Old Port is a small, counter-style burger spot in Portland where the focus is on quality beef, creative toppings, and housemade sauces. The crowd skews toward locals and visitors willing to wait a few minutes for a seat at the bar. Prices run high, but the kitchen delivers burgers that justify it. Seating is limited, so don't plan on bringing a large group.

• House Burger with bacon, caramelized onions, jalapeños hits hard.
• Bacon Bacon Burger and Block Burger are packed with flavor.
• Crispy fries and housemade sauces that make the meal.
• Bartender Kaitlyn and staff are genuinely warm and attentive.

The House Burger is a solid entry point: bacon, caramelized onions, jalapeños. The Texas Burger and Bacon Bacon Burger both have devoted fans. The Block Burger is leaner but flavorful. Don't skip the chicken and waffle sandwich if burgers aren't calling your name. Order the sea salt fries and the housemade Block Sauce. A 1 lb. side is shareable between two people and almost too much.

Tight bar seating, no tables. The room fills up fast around 6pm but moves quickly. Casual and friendly, slightly loud when packed.

This is the place for someone who wants a really good burger, not a casual quick bite. Expect to order one or two specialty burgers, share a massive side of fries, and sit elbow-to-elbow with other diners. If you're particular about your meal and want attentive service, you'll appreciate it here.

Diners rave about the quality of the beef and the attention from staff, especially bartender Kaitlyn. Guests consistently mention the fries as "crispy little golden nuggets" and the housemade sauce as a game changer. One recent visitor called it "worth every penny for a burger experience that's this good," though most note that prices lean high.