Fine Dining Outdoors

Nestled in the heart of Portland, Maine, Local 188 is a culinary gem that helped pioneer the “small plates” craze to Maine’s most vibrant city. This beloved local hotspot is renowned for its mouthwatering tapas, classic and innovative cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere that invites you to relax and indulge. In the summer months, outdoor dining (dogs welcome!) allows you to feel the breeze and people watch while savoring delicious small plates.

A Taste of Spain in Portland

Local 188 offers a menu that showcases the best of Spanish tapas tradition. Supporting local farmers, foragers, purveyors, fishermen & fisherwomen is a priority and it shows.

Weekend Brunch

Walk over from 9-1 every weekend for a delicious brunch cocktail, some exquisite egg dishes, or have a pastry or another classic breakfast side.

Visit Local 188

If you're in Portland, Maine, a visit to Local 188 is a must. Experience the rich flavors of Spanish tapas in a friendly, welcoming environment. Check out their website, local188.com, for the latest menu and to make reservations. Come hungry, leave happy!

Local 188 Celebrates 25 Years in Portland Maine

Before concepts such as “small plates” or “farm to table cuisine” were a thing, Local 188 Restaurant and Lounge was laying the foundation for Portland’s acclaimed restaurant scene, offering tapas and other Spanish and Portuguese-inspired fare from its original location at 188 State Street back in 1999. This summer, Local 188 (now located across the street at 685 Congress Street) is celebrating 25 years in business, marking the achievement by featuring food and drinks from their original 1999 menu, and donating 25% of profits during the month of June to support Wayside Food Programs in their efforts to eliminate food insecurity.  

From the start, Local 188 was a grassroots family and community affair. The restaurant actually began as a hybrid restaurant / art gallery and continues to showcase work by local Maine artists.  Chef and co-owner Jay Villani reflects on the restaurant’s relationship with the Portland scene: "The name ‘Local 188’ and the brand imagery (created by local artist and muralist Pat Corrigan) not only references the original street address of the restaurant and gallery and our community focus but was also meant to evoke labor unions and their tradition of celebrating dignity, hard work, and comradery among their members, characteristics shared by the local artist community, then and now.” He continues, “we wanted to create a venue for art that was less “precious” and would help put the works in a different context and make it more a part of everyday life.” Both of Jay Villani’s children worked at the restaurant (son Sonny is currently sous chef) and partner Matt Purington’s two kids washed dishes and waited tables as well. Long tenured employees and good friends including VP of Operations (and now business partner) Garry Bowcott, talented and creative chef Trent Harris, and General Manager Jenny Gardiner have contributed immeasurably to the style, character, and quality of the restaurant. Villani is proud that many of Local 188’s former employees have gone on to open their own businesses, contributing their talent to Portland’s art, music, and food scene. Close and long-standing relationships with local farmers, foragers, and fishmongers have also been a core part of Local’s success.

The name “Local 188” and concept have also been a source of a few amusing misunderstandings over the years, including a pipefitter who showed up looking for plumbing work (confusing the business with Local Union 716), and an exotic dancer who applied for a job after mishearing a reference to the “Tapas” bar as a “Topless” bar.

Over the years, Local 188 has been an important part of its West End neighborhood and the greater Portland community. The restaurant has held fundraisers for local schools and non-profits, sponsored sports teams, collaborated with local artists, and provided a venue for a range of special occasions including weddings, live music performances, film screenings, political events (Chelsea Clinton stopped by after a campaign event) and impromptu visits by  various touring bands in town, including The Strokes. Traditions have come and gone: for many years prior to COVID, Villani hosted an annual Feast of the Seven Fishes at the restaurant on Christmas Eve. “The doors were open, random strangers would show up and be welcomed in. One elderly neighbor came every year and put whole lobsters in her purse at the end of the night. And our kids grew up thinking everybody’s Christmas Eve ended in a dance party.” 

In its 25 years of operation, Local 188 has seen significant changes in Portland. Says Villani, “We opened with a lot of sweat equity and very limited funds. Cheap space was pretty easy to come by, and the neighborhood really welcomed us with open arms. I think it is tougher these days to get established. We are grateful to our customers, friends, and neighbors and consider ourselves very fortunate.” 

Local 188 is open Wednesday through Sunday for dinner and weekends for brunch and invites the greater Portland community (and its visitors) to join us at the restaurant to celebrate this significant milestone; reservations are available for dinner at Local188.com.

Exploring the Culinary Delights of Portland, Maine

Located on Congress Street, Local 188 brings the elevated fine dining to Portland.

The restaurant's fine dining ambiance sets the stage for a memorable dining experience. It's not just about the food at Local; it's also a great brunch spot and offers outdoor dining, making it a lively spot to enjoy great food and take in the Portland vibe.

Discovering Portland's Diverse Restaurant Scene

Portland's culinary landscape is diverse, offering a range of dining experiences that cater to various tastes and preferences. Here are a few other noteworthy restaurants that capture the essence of Portland's food scene:

1. Fore Street: A staple in Portland's dining scene, Fore Street is known for its farm-to-table approach and wood-fired cooking. The menu features locally sourced ingredients, with dishes that highlight the flavors of Maine's produce and seafood.

2. Eventide Oyster Co.: For seafood lovers, Eventide Oyster Co. is a must-visit. Famous for its fresh oysters and inventive takes on classic New England seafood dishes, Eventide offers a modern, yet casual dining experience.

3. Duckfat: A unique spot specializing in Belgian-style fries cooked in duck fat, Duckfat is a favorite for those looking for a quick, indulgent bite. The menu also features panini, soups, and milkshakes, all crafted with high-quality ingredients.

4. The Honey Paw: Adjacent to Eventide Oyster Co., The Honey Paw offers a noodle-centric menu that draws inspiration from various Asian cuisines. The casual yet vibrant atmosphere makes it a great spot for a flavorful and eclectic meal.

5. Central Provisions: This small-plate restaurant in the Old Port district serves a variety of dishes that blend local and global flavors. The ever-changing menu and creative cocktails make Central Provisions a hit among locals and tourists alike.

Why Portland, Maine, is a Food Lover's Paradise

Portland's culinary scene is marked by its commitment to quality, innovation, and local sourcing. The city's chefs and restaurateurs are dedicated to showcasing the best of Maine's bounty, from fresh seafood to locally grown produce. Whether you're in the mood for a casual meal at Salvage BBQ or an upscale dining experience at Fore Street, Portland offers an array of options that promise to delight your taste buds.

So, the next time you find yourself in Portland, Maine, be sure to explore the diverse restaurant scene. Start with Spanish and Portuguese inspired tapas at Local 188 and then venture out to discover the many other culinary treasures this vibrant city has to offer.

For more information about Local 188, including their menu and upcoming events, visit their website at locla188.com. Happy dining!