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Dimillo's On The Water - Portland's Floating Seafood Spot

DiMillo’s On the Water

Jul 17, 2025
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DiMillo’s On the Water

When you are searching for a truly special place to enjoy a meal right by the water, you might want to consider Dimillo's. This spot, known as Dimillo's on the Water, is a beloved choice for many people who live in or visit Portland, Maine. It's a place where you can find some of the very freshest seafood from the New England area, and they are especially good at preparing Maine lobster, which is, you know, a real treat for many folks.

This establishment has been a favorite for quite some time, actually. People have given it a lot of good feedback, with over three thousand reviews on a popular travel site, showing that it’s quite liked. It holds a good standing among the many places to eat in Portland, which is pretty impressive when you think about it. You can see why it has become such a well-known name in the area, offering something a little different from your usual dining spot.

Dimillo's on the Water is, in fact, a restaurant that floats. It sits right on the water in Portland, Maine, which is a rather unique setup. This building used to be a car ferry, one that traveled between places like Norfolk and Hampton, Virginia, some time ago. Now, it serves as a wonderful place for people to gather, eat good food, and take in the sights. It's a spot that, in some respects, brings a bit of history to your meal.

Table of Contents

What Makes Dimillo's on the Water So Special?

So, you might wonder what really sets this place apart. Dimillo's on the Water offers more than just a meal; it provides an entire experience. Every single table, you know, has views of the water all around it, which is pretty cool. You can look out onto Portland Harbor while you eat, and that makes any occasion feel a little more special. It's a pretty good spot for those times you want to make a memory, like for a birthday or a get-together with loved ones.

The fact that it is a floating restaurant is a big part of its charm. There aren't many places where you can say you ate on a former car ferry, that's for sure. This history adds a bit of character to the whole setting. It’s not just about the food, though the food is a big part of it, but also about the feeling of being out on the water, watching the harbor activity go by. It’s a very calm and pleasant atmosphere, generally speaking.

A Unique Spot for Dimillo's on the Water

This restaurant, Dimillo's on the Water, has been serving people since 1954, which is a long time for any business. It has earned a good name for itself because of its fresh local seafood and, of course, the lobster. People often come back because they know they can count on getting good, fresh food here. It’s become a bit of a landmark, actually, for anyone visiting Portland or even those who live there.

The building itself, as mentioned, has quite a past. It was once a way for cars to cross water, connecting different places. Now, it has a new purpose, giving people a chance to enjoy good food in a setting that is, you know, quite different from a regular building on land. It’s something that makes Dimillo's on the Water stand out among other places to eat in the area. You get to be right there, surrounded by the sea, which is pretty neat.

The Tastes of Dimillo's on the Water

When you look at what Dimillo's on the Water offers to eat, you’ll find a range of things. They have those well-known seafood dishes that people often look for when they come to Maine. But they also offer Italian food, which might be a surprise to some. This mix means there’s something for almost everyone, whether you’re in the mood for something from the sea or a classic pasta dish. It’s a pretty good selection, you know, to please different tastes.

The focus on fresh seafood, especially Maine lobster, is what many people come for. They are known for getting their ingredients from the local area, making sure what you eat is as fresh as it can be. This commitment to fresh, local food has helped them keep their reputation for many years. It’s about giving people a true taste of what Maine has to offer, and that, in some respects, is a very important part of their identity.

When Can You Visit Dimillo's on the Water?

Knowing when to go to Dimillo's on the Water can help you have a better experience. They typically open their doors at noon and stay open until nine in the evening. It’s a good idea to think about visiting at times that might not be as busy, just to make sure you get a spot and can enjoy your meal without feeling rushed. People often say that going during the "locals season" is a good idea, which is when the sun starts to set earlier.

This time of year, when the days get shorter, is actually a favorite for the people at Dimillo's. They say it’s when they can really focus on the people who live in the community. So, if you are looking for a more relaxed visit, or want to feel like you are part of the local scene, that might be a good period to plan your meal. It gives you a chance to see the place in a slightly different light, perhaps.

Planning Your Meal at Dimillo's on the Water

It’s a good idea to check their current hours before you head over, just in case things have changed. You can usually find this information online, where you can also look at their menu and sometimes even make a table booking. This way, you can avoid any disappointment and make sure your visit to Dimillo's on the Water goes smoothly. It’s always better to be prepared, right?

Because it is a place that many people want to visit, especially during peak times, space can be a bit limited. So, if you have a specific time in mind, or are coming with a larger group, getting a reservation might be a smart move. It just helps ensure you get to enjoy that unparalleled dining experience with fresh Maine seafood, warm hospitality, and the distinct charm of Portland’s waterfront. It's a place that tends to be quite popular.

How Does Dimillo's on the Water Get Its Freshness?

The reputation of Dimillo's on the Water for serving truly fresh seafood comes from a long history of commitment. They have been doing this since 1954, which means they have had many years to perfect how they get their ingredients. The goal is to always bring you the freshest catches from the New England waters, with a special focus on Maine lobster. This commitment to fresh, local food is a big part of what they are about.

They are, after all, Maine’s only floating restaurant, which gives them a unique connection to the water and its offerings. This closeness to the source, in a way, helps them keep their promise of fresh seafood. It’s not just about getting seafood; it’s about getting the best seafood available. This is something they have been known for, and it’s a reason why people keep coming back, year after year, for a taste of what they offer.

The Story Behind Dimillo's on the Water's Offerings

The story of Dimillo's on the Water is one of consistent quality. They have built their fame around the idea of providing fresh, local seafood and, of course, their lobster. When you visit, you are not just getting a meal; you are getting a piece of what makes Portland’s food scene special. It’s about the tradition of serving good food from the sea, prepared in a way that lets its natural goodness shine through.

They also offer Italian food, which shows a willingness to provide a variety of choices. This means that even if someone in your group isn't in the mood for seafood, there are still plenty of delicious options available. It’s about making sure everyone at the table can find something they will enjoy, all while taking in those lovely views of the water. It’s a pretty thoughtful approach to dining, you know, making sure everyone feels welcome and has choices.

Where Exactly is Dimillo's on the Water Located?

Dimillo's on the Water is located right at 25 Long Wharf in Portland, Maine, with the zip code 04101. It’s pretty easy to find, as it sits at the front of the Dimillo’s lot, which is on Commercial Street. This spot puts it right in the heart of the action on the waterfront, making it a convenient place to get to if you are exploring Portland’s harbor area. You can usually spot it quite easily, as it’s a big floating structure.

Being on Long Wharf means you are right there among the boats and the water, which adds to the overall feel of the place. It’s a very fitting location for a restaurant that specializes in seafood and offers views of the harbor. This placement helps to create that sense of being truly connected to the sea, making your meal feel more authentic, in a way. It’s a good spot to just soak in the atmosphere of the working waterfront.

Finding Dimillo's on the Water in Portland

If you are planning to visit Dimillo's on the Water, knowing its exact address and general location can make your trip much smoother. You can check out their offerings, see their current opening times, and read what other people have said about their visits all online. This makes it quite simple to get a good idea of what to expect before you even arrive, which is pretty helpful for planning your day or evening out.

The fact that it’s on a former car ferry is a detail that often catches people’s attention. This history means it has a story to tell even before you step inside. The ferry, which once traveled between Norfolk and Hampton, Virginia, has found a new life as a place where people can gather for good food and company. It’s a pretty cool transformation, and it adds to the unique character of Dimillo's on the Water, making it more than just a restaurant.

When you are looking for a special place to eat in Portland, Dimillo's on the Water offers a unique experience. It brings together fresh seafood, a history-rich floating setting, and lovely views of the harbor. It’s a place where you can enjoy a meal that feels both traditional and a little bit different, all while being treated to good service. It’s a spot that has earned its place as a favorite for many people who visit or live in the area, and it continues to welcome guests looking for a taste of Maine’s waters.

This establishment has been a fixture since the mid-1950s, which is quite a long time to be serving the community. Its reputation for quality, especially with its Maine lobster and other seafood options, means people know they are getting something special. The fact that it’s on a boat, giving every table a view of the water, really sets it apart. It’s a place that seems to truly understand what makes dining by the sea so appealing, offering both iconic dishes and a very inviting atmosphere for any occasion.

The menu at Dimillo's on the Water has a bit of something for everyone, mixing those well-known seafood choices with Italian classics. This variety means that whether you are craving a traditional seafood meal or something else, you’ll likely find it there. It’s a spot that many people choose for those important moments, like celebrations, because of its lovely setting and the chance to make some truly memorable times. It’s just a really pleasant place to be, offering a comfortable and welcoming feel for all its guests.

The hours are pretty consistent, usually opening around lunchtime and staying open into the evening, so you have a good window to visit. It’s often a good idea to consider going during times that might be less busy, especially if you want to experience what they call "locals season," when the focus shifts a little more to the community. This period, when the sun sets earlier, is a favorite for the people who work there, too, as it allows for a more relaxed pace. It’s a very thoughtful way to welcome people, ensuring everyone has a good time.

Dimillo's on the Water is located right on Long Wharf, making it easy to find in Portland. It’s a spot that truly embraces its waterfront position, with every table giving you a chance to look out at the harbor. This connection to the water is a big part of what makes the place special, from the fresh seafood they serve to the very building you are sitting in. It’s a place that seems to capture the essence of Portland’s working waterfront, offering a welcoming space for all who come to enjoy its offerings.

*** **Final Summary of the Article's Contents:** The article is a humanized blog post about "Dimillo's on the Water" in Portland, Maine. It introduces the restaurant as a popular floating dining spot known for its fresh New England seafood, especially Maine lobster. The text covers what makes the restaurant unique, including its setting on a former car ferry and its long history since 1954. It discusses the menu, which includes both seafood and Italian classics, and highlights the stunning waterfront views available from every table. The article also provides information on operating hours, suggesting optimal times to visit, and details the restaurant's specific location on Long Wharf. The overall tone is warm, conversational, and aims to connect with the reader by focusing on the dining experience and the establishment's charm. It adheres to strict word exclusion lists, maintains high perplexity and burstiness, and incorporates specific filler words in each paragraph, all while targeting a Gunning Fog index of 8.
DiMillo’s On the Water
DiMillo’s On the Water
DiMillo's On the Water, 25 Long Whrf, Portland, ME, Eating places
DiMillo's On the Water, 25 Long Whrf, Portland, ME, Eating places
DiMillo's On the Water, 25 Long Wharf, Portland, ME - MapQuest
DiMillo's On the Water, 25 Long Wharf, Portland, ME - MapQuest

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