Dunstan Tap and Table

Dunstan Tap and Table brings serious kitchen chops to Old Orchard Beach, turning out burgers that earn real devotion, pizzas with personality, and cocktails with bite. The crowd skews local and visitor alike, filling the place especially on weekends. It's the kind of restaurant that justifies the reservation or the wait.

• Burgers that surprise even jaded diners.
• Spicy margaritas with serious craft cocktail chops.
• Pizza with a crust worth talking about.
• Staff that keeps pace even when packed.

Start with the spicy margarita if you like your drinks bold. The Dunstan burger and Bison fig burger both justify their reputations. The Fire BLT swaps pepper jelly for ordinary condiments. Try the hot honey pizza for that sweet-spicy-crispy combo. BBQ ribs come fall-off-the-bone tender. Mussels are worth a share.

Modern and clean with a bar, tables, and a few TVs. Gets genuinely packed on weekends, especially nights, so noise and energy run high.

Wed–Sat: 11:30 am–9:00 pm
Sun: 11:30 am–8:00 pm
Closed: Mon–Tue

Book ahead, especially on weekends. The "Most Booked" tag on OpenTable isn't ornamental - the place fills up. Call (207) 219-8024 or reserve on OpenTable. Walk-ins are welcome if you arrive early (11:30 am lunch opens the most space), but expect a wait on Friday and Saturday evenings. The restaurant accommodates late arrivals with grace; one regular mentioned they called to say they'd be 30 minutes late and faced "no issues."

Guests rave about the burger quality, one recent visitor calling it the best they'd had in 54 years. The spicy margarita draws praise for its balance. Staff consistency stands out even during rushes. One diner noted the menu takes familiar dishes and makes them feel fresh.

Dunstan Tap and Table sits in Scarborough, a walkable, growing suburb on the Portland metro's south edge, closer to the coastal towns of Cape Elizabeth and the lighthouses beyond. The restaurant is a draw for both locals and visitors making the short drive from the city.

• From downtown Portland: 15 minutes by car south on I-295 or Route 1.
• From Portland International Jetport: 20 minutes south on I-295.
• From Old Orchard Beach: 20 minutes north, a quick detour on your way to or from the beach.
• Nearby walks: The Scarborough Marsh, just north, offers trails and birding. The Coastline is 10 minutes away.
• Day-trip distances: Portland museums and restaurants (15 min), Cape Elizabeth lighthouses (15 min), Freeport outlets and L.L.Bean (20 min).
• Parking: Public lot on site, ample and free.

Do I need a reservation?
Yes, especially for Friday and Saturday dinners. Call ahead or book on OpenTable. Weekday lunches and early seatings are easier walk-in windows.

Is it kid-friendly?
Absolutely. The menu has burgers, pizza, and mac and cheese. The casual atmosphere and lively (not pretentious) vibe make it a natural for families. One reviewer brought their daughter's college friends for a birthday dinner with a party of eight and everyone left happy.

What's the noise level really like?
Moderate to energetic, depending on the night. Friday and Saturday evenings are louder; weeknights and lunch are calmer. The bar area amplifies noise; request a table away from it if quiet conversation matters.

Are there vegetarian or vegan options?
Yes. The BBQ Mushroom Veggie Burger, Kale & Mushroom Pizza, fried Brussels sprouts, and salads cover plant-based diets. Check with your server on preparations.

What about outdoor seating?
Available seasonally (warm months). Call to confirm availability and request when you book.

Can I bring a large group?
Yes. The restaurant handles groups well and will work to accommodate party sizes. Mention your group size when reserving.

Is there wheelchair accessibility?
The restaurant is in a newer building; full accessibility details aren't reflected in reviews. Call (207) 219-8024 to confirm.

What's the dress code?
Casual. Jeans, t-shirts, sneakers - no one's dressing up here.