What should I order at Scales?
Scales
Scallops
Frequently praised as perfectly cooked, unique, and among the best several reviewers had ever eaten; recommended in both appetizer and entree form.
Mussels
Recommended multiple times for being tender, plump, and served in a rich, flavorful broth that was so good it could stand alone.
Halibut
Repeatedly highlighted as excellent, especially the brown butter halibut and pan-roasted halibut, both described as rich, delicate, and possibly the best ever.
Seafood Stew
Mentioned several times as packed with fresh seafood and incredible flavor, with reviewers calling it a standout dish and highly recommending it.
Branzino
Praised for being expertly cooked, buttery, flaky, and delicious, with the whole branzino especially noted for its crisp skin and well-balanced accompaniments.
Fried Oysters
Recommended for their light breading, crisp texture, and non-greasy finish, with both dipping sauces complementing them well.
Clam Chowder
Called out as perfectly seasoned and beautifully balanced in texture, making it a memorable starter.
Brown Bread
Described as a must-try appetizer because it was warm, pillowy, and impossible to stop eating.
Lobster Roll
Received a strong endorsement as the best one a reviewer had ever had, making it a clear standout.
Hours
| Monday | 4:30 to 9:30 PM |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 4:30 to 9:30 PM |
| Wednesday | 4:30 to 9:30 PM |
| Thursday | 4:30 to 9:30 PM |
| Friday | 4:30 to 10 PM |
| Saturday | 4:30 to 10 PM |
| Sunday | 4:30 to 9:30 PM |
About Scales
Spacious seaside venue for local seafood, raw bar, wine & New England comfort classics.
Amenities & services
Service options
- Onsite services
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Great beer selection
- Great cocktails
- Great dessert
- Great wine list
- Serves local specialty
Popular for
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
- Wheelchair accessible seating
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Coffee
- Hard liquor
- Healthy options
- Organic dishes
- Small plates
- Wine
Dining options
- Dinner
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Bar onsite
- Restroom
Atmosphere
- Romantic
- Trendy
- Upscale
Crowd
- Groups
- Tourists
Planning
- Reservations required
- Dinner reservations recommended
- Accepts reservations
- Usually a wait
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
- Credit cards
Children
- High chairs
Parking
- Free street parking
- Paid parking lot
- Paid street parking
- Valet parking
Frequently asked questions
What is Scales known for?
Scales is best known for its seafood, especially the scallops, halibut, oysters, and seafood stew that reviewers mention repeatedly. People also call out the raw bar, fresh local seafood, and dishes that are cooked and seasoned very carefully.
What dishes are most recommended at Scales?
The most frequently recommended dishes include the scallops, brown butter halibut, clam chowder, seafood stew, mussels, oysters with mignonette, and the Cloverleaf Rolls with garlic and chive butter. Reviewers also mention the lobster roll, fried oysters, and branzino as standouts, with many saying the seafood tastes especially fresh.
What is the atmosphere like at Scales?
The atmosphere is upscale and romantic, but also lively, with some reviewers noting it can be loud during busy times. It works well for dinner dates, groups, and solo diners, and the bar seating is a popular option while waiting for a table.
Is Scales good value, and what is the price range?
Scales is in the $50 to $100 range, and reviewers generally feel the quality of the seafood and service makes it worth the price. Several say it was their favorite meal in Portland, especially for dishes like halibut, scallops, mussels, and oysters.
Do you need a reservation at Scales?
Yes, reservations are strongly recommended and the restaurant is often busy enough that people report waiting or joining a list. Reviewers suggest planning ahead because it fills up quickly, especially for dinner.
Is parking available at Scales?
Yes. Free street parking, Paid parking lot, Paid street parking, Valet parking is available.
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