Meanwhile, J’s Oyster Bar is an old-school spot to eat a few oysters or fried seafood alongside grizzly local fishermen tossing back martinis.

The fact that J’s Oyster celebrates its 40th anniversary in 2017 is proof that it’s got the recipe for success. Loved by locals and sought out by tourists, this seafood joint located in a no-frills building on Portland Pier has a true neighborhood vibe — one that immediately impressed food celeb Anthony Bourdain on a 2011 visit (“It’s a place that I loved within two seconds of walking in the door”). J’s is the place to go to gorge on buckets of steamed clams and platters of fresh oysters, although it also serves a mean chowder (both clam and haddock), steamed dinners, a number of filling pasta-based seafood entrées such as shrimp marinara and lobster scampi, and more.

5 Portland PierNestled on the working waterfront, where you can watch local lobster harvesters bring in the day’s haul, this iconic blue-and-white bistro has been a neighborhood fixture since it first opened in 1977. A favorite of Anthony Bourdain’s, it’s the kind of place where you might sit shoulder to shoulder with the actual lobsterman who caught your lunch. Kick off your meal with a cheap beer and an order of steamers (a local delicacy of soft-shell clams that the friendly staff will happily show you how to clean and eat), then move along to the lobster roll.

For oyster lovers – as well as fans of local seafood specialties – J's Oyster is a little bit of heaven right in Portland. Owner Janice "J" Noyce has gone to great lengths to create an upscale eatery that is also comfortable, friendly and, most of all, specializes in great seafood. Just about every oyster specialty can be found at this restaurant, located right alongside the Portland Pier.

Established in 1977, J’s Oyster is the epitome of old school Portland (before the trendy coffee shops and pricey boutiques moved in). This Portland staple boasts an unapologetic presence in a simple white and blue shack and a no-frills vibe beloved by locals. Their oceanfront location and reputation as an original Portland establishment guarantees they source the freshest Maine seafood.

J’s Oyster: Our driver from the airport to the hotel recommended J’s when were said we wanted a casual seafood spot for lunch and it was exactly what we were hoping for!. It’s full of locals and some tourists, too, but if you’re looking for a no-frills place with excellent seafood, it’s the perfect place to go. It’s smaller than some of the other places on the water but worth the wait.

Those searching for a taste of “Old Portland” need look no further than this iconic waterfront seafood joint, where the chowder is thick and the beers on tap are made by the grandfathers of Portland’s beer scene. Order up a bucket of steamers and contemplate the simple life, before Bon Appetit and James Beard came to town. 5 Portland Pier, Portland, ME 04101, USA

There’s something special about walking through alleyways and parking lots to get to a hidden gem that calls itself a “joint.” J’s Oyster is a favorite of locals and visitors alike. While the restaurant’s namesake gets plenty of attention, the real star is the plentiful Maine lobster served several ways. Start with a lobster claw or decadent lobster stew.

Sip into something more comfortable” was how J’s Oyster Bar introduced diners to wine and spirits. The menu for the Seamen’s Club, in the building now occupied by Bull Feeney’s, told diners of its history as a real-life gathering spot for out-of-port sailors in the 1940s. “OUR POTATO IS ‘REAL’” boasted the Longfellow Cafe in magic marker.

Similar to a traditional lobster dinner, there are plenty of people who would like to consume their lobster in a more traditional way. If you’re feeling soupy, you simply cannot go wrong with a cup or bowl of lobster stew at J’s Oyster on the Portland Pier. Snag a seat at the cozy bar and warm with your belly with this rich stew.

For an authentic Maine experience, J’s Oyster is an absolute must-visit. This intimate seafood joint has been a local favorite for over four decades, serving up classic dishes like clam chowder, oysters on the half shell, and steamed lobster. The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff add to the charm of this beloved seafood spot.

According to 10Best, the best seafood restaurant in Portland is J’s Oyster. As the name suggests, oysters are the specialty of this restaurant, with some of the delicious options including oysters Rockefeller, raw oysters, and baked stuffed oysters. However, there are plenty of options to choose from the creative menu.

There’s not a lot of fanfare when it comes to the lobster rolls at J’s Oyster. And, it’s the sheer simplicity of it all that makes them so great. If you’re new to lobster rolls, this is actually a great place to start as it’s a fine introduction to the basics: cool lobster meat, mayo and a hot dog bun.

But you can find one of Portland’s sneakiest and tastiest lobster dishes inside: lobster stew. Similar to lobster bisque, this hearty and creamy dish is one of the top choices on the Portland Pier. There are other specials, too, like the lobster claw cocktail (pictured above).

Despite a visit from Anthony Bourdain, J’s was a bit of a disappointment. It’s definitely a local place and pretty authentic for Maine, but the seafood and service were lackluster. The seating out on the water was nice, but kind of felt like you were in a parking lot.

J’s Oyster offers full sized lobster at a fair price, as well as oysters, their famous steamed clams, Alaskan King Crab Legs and much more. This modest restaurant serves as a local favorite for seafood, along with a full service bar and a view of the waterfront.

J’s Oyster is my favorite spot in town, but it’s definitely a local hangout. The location is tucked away in a back alley off Commercial street in the Old Port, but the seafood is incredible. In particular, I like how I can get a massive bucket of clams for $20.

5 Portland Pier, Portland, ME – A Portland classic offering up a wide variety of seafood (not just oysters). This Portland mainstay is well worth a visit for a good, reasonably priced meal in a fun atmosphere.

5 Portland Pier, Portland, ME 04101Phone: 207-772-4828 Visit Website. A post shared by J’s Oyster Bar (@js_oyster). We start this list of the best seafood restaurants in Portland with J’s Oyster.

A Portland basic providing up all kinds of seafood (not simply oysters), this Portland mainstay is effectively price a go to for a very good, moderately priced meal in a enjoyable environment.

J’s Oyster is a local hangout known for its laid-back atmosphere and seafood dishes. Their lobster roll is a no-fuss, traditional delight, showcasing the essence of Maine’s lobster culture.

Other menu items like their seafood chowder and lobster rolls are equally satisfying. Inside, the atmosphere is lively. The friendly staff make it even more inviting.

Great oysters, lobster rolls, strong drinks, sassy bartenders, crotchety locals. If you haven’t been to J’s, you haven’t been to Portland, Maine.

- Rating: 3.7/5 (1398 reviews)- Price level: $$- Address: 5 Portland Pier Portland, Maine - Categories: seafood- Read more on Yelp