If you haven't heard someone say it, you've probably thought it yourself. Everything is so expensive these days. From gas to groceries and beyond, inflation has taken a toll on everyone in Maine over the past several years.

IcemanJ
IcemanJ
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While we often think of it as an individualistic problem, businesses have felt the burden of rising costs as well. Portland is a prime example. Less than a decade ago, the city was littered with very affordable breakfast and lunch options. Now? You've got to know where to look.

With that in mind, Stacker put together a list of 30 highest-rated places in Portland, Maine, for cheap eats. They didn't limit the criteria to a simple breakfast or lunch. Instead, dinner and dessert options were included.

TripAdvisor uses four sets of criteria to make their determination. On a scale of one to five, businesses were rated on their food, service, value, and atmosphere. Reviewers gave their opinions and Stacker compiled the list, which made for a somewhat surprising number one and number two.

Google Maps/Facebook via Gorgeous Gelato
Google Maps/Facebook via Gorgeous Gelato
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Both dessert places are right across the street from one another. Gorgeous Gelato was ranked as the highest-rated place for cheap eats in Portland, Maine. Gelato Fiasco was ranked right behind it.

Google Maps
Google Maps
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Both places have become summer hotspots for both locals and visitors to the city. They're clearly doing something right, as Gorgeous Gelato and Gelato Fiasco nearly aced all four criteria categories with an identical score.

Google Maps
Google Maps
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The highest-rated savory place? That would be another longtime Portland favorite, Micucci Grocery. With their massive pizza slabs and many other offerings, it's been a gem in the city for decades.

Check out the entire list of the 30 highest-rated cheap eats below.

LOOK: Highest-rated cheap eats in Portland, Maine, according to Tripadvisor

Stacker compiled a list of the highest rated cheap eats restaurants in Portland, Maine from Tripadvisor.

Gallery Credit: Stacker

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