REGARDS in Portland, Maine

Regards is a small seafood restaurant in Portland where the chef treats every plate like an experiment in flavor. The menu changes regularly, so regulars and visitors keep coming back to see what's new. It's the kind of place where oysters sit next to tamales, and nothing feels out of place. You'll need a reservation, and you should make one.

• Menu rotates constantly; reasons to return multiply.
• Flavors develop and linger on your palate.
• Oysters, tamales, tostadas, tuna jaw all hit.
• Intimate room focused entirely on your meal.

Start with oysters if they're on the menu. The tamales and tostadas pack unexpected flavor combinations. The tuna jaw is a signature that earns regular praise for both taste and portion. A chocolate cake rounds things out, though some prefer to skip dessert and linger over the savories. Ask your server what's been coming out strongest that service.

Small, quiet room with minimal tables and few distractions. You can hear conversation, but the focus stays on the plate in front of you.

Service tends to be warm and knowledgeable, with staff happy to guide you through the menu. The short ribs have drawn some criticism for timing and portion, so if you go, ask your server about what's working best that night. Desserts are inventive too, though opinions split on how they stack up against the main courses.

Dinner: Tue–Sat 5:00 pm–9:00 pm
Sunday: 5:00 pm–8:30 pm
Closed: Mondays

Reservations: Book ahead, especially weekends. This place is consistently full, and walk-ins may wait 45 minutes or longer. OpenTable is your best bet. Phone (207) 747-5940 if you have special requests - dietary needs, allergies, occasion celebrations. The kitchen is responsive to gluten-free and other dietary restrictions. Valentine's Day, holidays, and tourist season (July–August) fill up weeks in advance. Weeknight early seatings (5:00–5:30 pm) are easier to snag same-day.

Guests describe the food as transportive, with flavors that surprise and linger. One diner called it 'poetry for your senses,' while another said each dish felt like 'a journey of flavor from one delightful surprise to the next.' Staff members like Michael stand out as thoughtful guides. A few visitors note that service can be uneven depending on the night.

REGARDS sits in downtown Portland, a few blocks from Congress Street's arts and culture corridor. The neighborhood has shifted dramatically over the past decade - galleries, theaters, coffee roasters, and restaurants now line the street where empty storefronts used to be. Reny's is across the street; the Maine College of Art, Portland Stage Company, and several live music venues (Empire Comedy Club, Blue Jazz Club, State Theatre) are within walking distance.

• 2 miles from the Midcoast region; part of the broader Portland restaurant scene that's become a destination in its own right.
• Street parking is available but can be tight on weekend nights; arrive early or plan to circle. City parking garages are a block away.
• 10 minutes drive to Cape Elizabeth lighthouses and coastal walks.
• 25 minutes to Yarmouth and the Freeport outlet mall and nature preserves.
• 60 minutes to Camden and Rockland for full-day coastal exploration.
• Within walking distance of dozens of other restaurants, bars, and galleries. Congress Street is the dining and culture spine of downtown.

What's the dress code in practice? Smart casual. Jeans are fine; athletic wear is not. Most diners wear business-casual or nicer casual. No jacket or tie required.

Can I get in without a reservation? Rarely on weekends. Weeknights in shoulder seasons (April–May, September–October) sometimes have walk-in availability, but don't count on it. Reserve through OpenTable or call ahead.

Are there vegetarian and gluten-free options? Yes to both. The menu rotates, but multiple dishes are vegetarian, and the kitchen is notably accommodating to gluten-free requests. Mention allergies and dietary needs when you book.

What if I don't like spice? Some dishes are intentionally spicy (certain ceviches, sauces). Ask your server which plates are mild and which pack heat. The kitchen can adjust if you communicate early.

How far in advance should I book for a special occasion? Valentine's Day and New Year's Eve: 3–4 weeks. Regular weekends: 1–2 weeks. Weeknights: same week is often fine. Mention the occasion when you book; the kitchen and staff like to know.

Is the restaurant wheelchair accessible? The restaurant is on the ground floor of a downtown building. Confirm accessibility details when you call, as some older buildings have uneven entrances or limited ADA facilities.