I always visit Blyth & Burrows when heading to Portland for dinner and drinks. This special place is located right on Exchange Street, in the heart of downtown. Here is everything you need to know about the most popular cocktail bar in Portland, Maine!

Blyth & Burrows

The story behind Blyth & Burrows is more than interesting. In 1813, Washington Irving wrote about the battle where the captain of HMS Boxer, Commander Samuel Blyth, was killed early on by a cannonball. His remains, along with those of the brave Lieutenant William Burrows, were brought to Portland and buried with military honors in Eastern Cemetery. Seeing these two valiant commanders, once fierce enemies, laid to rest in the same grave peacefully was a powerful sight for many.

Now, 209 years later, Blyth & Burrows, Named after the two brave captains who died, is a two-level bar with a raw bar, creative small plates, perfectly poured cocktails, and impeccable service.

The Vintage Atmosphere

Everything about Blyth & Burrows is impressive, from its vintage-inspired style to its dimly lit rooms. You can enjoy the cuisine on tour in the main room or the bar in the back. They also have a speakeasy, hidden away from the chaos of downtown Portland. Whichever area you choose, you will not be disappointed.

During a separate visit, we sat at the bar in the back of the central area and the speakeasy.

They both had different vibes, and it was fun watching the bartenders create the drinks right before us!

Hand-Crafted Cocktails At Blyth & Burrows

You will not be bored with cocktails at Blyth & Burrows. We have been there a few times, and I will go over some of the most creative ones I have tried. Their cocktail menu is ever-changing, so be sure to revisit it any chance you can!

Tom Yum Punch

I loved this cocktail since I am also a massive fan of Thai Soup! It features gin, Lime, and Tom Yum Soup. Yes, you heard that right, and guess what—it was so good!

The Spinacher

Who would have thought getting your daily greens could be so much fun? We tried The Spinacher, which consists of Spinach, salers, Ginger, Fenugreek, Cashew, and Lemon.

Dragging Anchor

We paired The Spinach with the creative Draggin Anchor Cocktail, which features Mushroom Rum, Banana, Fino Sherry, Lime Leaf, and Gentian.

I appreciated the added detail of the anchor burnt into the lime leaf.

Ship Captain Crew

This innovative cocktail features Dandelion Bourbon, Rhum, Montenegro, Amontillado Lemongrass, Spruce Tip, and Pecan Wood Smoke. You can see the bottle of smoke that came with it!

Snacks, Oysters & Raw Bar At Blyth & Burrows

Maine is known for its fresh seafood and tasty oysters, and Blyth & Burrows has both!

Start with a Half-Dozen Oysters from local farms, served with horseradish, mignonette, and cocktail Sauce.

They also have Crab Claws, made with Maine Jonah Crab, Cilantro Lime Aioli,
Seaweed Salad, Ocutpis served with Harissa Vinaigrette, Piquillo Pepper,
Sea Beans Salad, and so much more!

We also tried a few of their snack plates, including the Deviled Eggs, which had Duck Confit, Cornichon, Crispy Potato, and Chive.

We also tried the Brandade Toast, sourdough bread, Smoked Haddock, Creamy Potatoes, XO Crumble, Pickled Husk Cherries, and Herbs.

The menu at Blyth & Burrows is constantly changing, as they incorporate seasonal ingredients with a creative spin.

Do I Need A Reservation To Visit Blyth & Burrows?

They do not accept reservations. All you have to do it walk up and ask for a table. We never had an issue getting in and only had to wait up to a half hour, even on the busiest nights.

Where Is Blyth & Burrows?

You can find them on Exchange Street in downtown Portland.

I love visiting Portland, Maine’s foodie capital! There is so much to do here.

Visit Eventide Oyster Co. Portland, Maine’s Top Seafood Restaurant.

During the holidays, you must sign up for The Feast Of The Seven Fishes At Via Vecchia!

Want to try some of Maine’s tasty lobster rolls? Here is a A Local’s Guide To The Best Lobster Rolls In Maine.

Are you looking for some more amazing cocktails? This Boothbay Speakeasy Has The Best Cocktails In Maine.