Maine’s Best Dive Bar? Portland Icon Takes the Crown

Maine feels like the perfect state to enjoy a great dive bar.

Typically, these joints offer great ambiance, cheap drinks, underrated food, and an eclectic staff. Honestly, it’s everything you want. It’s no wonder so many dive bars continue to thrive in this increasingly expensive world. Having so many great dives in Maine is a huge plus.

With many legendary and iconic establishments to choose from, it must be difficult to pick the top spot as Maine’s best dive. However, that’s exactly what a popular foodie site did—and its pick is an absolute gem.

What is Maine's Best Dive Bar?

The site Tasting Table took a look at every state and highlighted the best dive based on reviews and some personal experience. Maine’s choice is an extremely popular spot that has been operating in Portland’s West End neighborhood for generations: Ruski’s Tavern.

Originally established in 1981, Ruski’s is one of the last remaining neighborhood bars in the city. It’s open daily from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m., catering to just about every work schedule, a true sign of a great dive.

Ruski’s isn’t big. In fact, it’s quite the opposite. Seating is limited, with just a few private tables, along with bar seating and community-style high-tops. Yet the size doesn’t diminish the experience. On the contrary, it gives the bar a much cozier feel—something any neighborhood haunt should provide.

While the atmosphere is a big draw, the same can be said for the food and drinks. Ruski’s menu is like a Charles Dickens novel—it’s absolutely massive. It typically includes a plethora of daily specials that always hit the spot. It’s also a place where you can enjoy an authentic Maine lobster roll without breaking the bank.

And the drinks? We’re talking no-frills beer and cocktails that get the job done without multiple trips to the ATM. It’s what a dive bar does best, and Ruski’s is no exception.

What Makes Ruski's Tavern Maine's Best Dive Bar?

Clearly, I’m a fan of the place—but don’t just take my word for it. Here’s a bit from Tasting Table on why Ruski’s is Maine’s best:

One of the fun things about dive bars is that they are incredibly diverse. Take Ruski's Tavern, for one, which is known for serving an exceptional breakfast and great burgers — not a very divey thing. Yet in other ways, Ruski's is a classic example of the genre. The decor is simple, with a few oddities here and there, and the neighborhood feel is real, which helps make it the best dive bar in Maine.

I think it’s totally fair for a dive to have good food—and Ruski’s definitely delivers, with solid eats available all day and night.

Ruski’s is a great choice by Tasting Table. It’s a true dive bar that has maintained its unique vibe through the decades. It’s the result of good ownership, a dedicated staff, and loyal patrons. It’s everything Portland needs more of.

READ MORE: Maine’s Most Popular Breweries Right Now—Is Your Favorite on the List?

Congrats to Ruski’s on the well-deserved recognition! I’m already looking forward to my next trip to Maine’s best dive bar.