6 of the Oldest Restaurants in Portland, Maine, That Have Stood the Test of Time

There's a certain level of excitement people feel when a new restaurant opens. A chance to dive into a new style of cuisine or have a traditional favorite prepared in some unique way. Even when a new place simply offers up standards, perhaps they just do it a little better than the rest.

Portland, Maine, has built a reputation as being a city where people can visit simply for the food. Dozens of heralded restaurants have opened in the city over the past two decades, with many more on the way in the future.

But before Portland became a critically-acclaimed city for foodies, it had several great restaurants already in place. Many of those places still remain.

Amato's

Opening its first location in 1902, Amato's was created so that founder Giovanni Amato could serve sandwiches to people working the docks in Portland. Amato became known for his fresh baked rolls, and packing those rolls with fresh vegetables, meat, and cheese. Those sandwiches obviously were a hit, because Amato's has become a staple in many towns all across the state of Maine.

Micucci Grocery

Launched in 1949, Micucci Grocery was initially just a warehouse where founder Leo Micucci could supplement a thriving food delivery business they had created in New Hampshire. Instead, the warehouse quickly became a storefront, and Leo eventually married Iris, who blossomed the business. Their signature 'Sicilian slab' still remains as a treasure in the Portland food scene.

Tony's Donuts

Founded in 1965, Tony's Donut Shop is one of those places that people still try to keep a secret. Their donuts are huge and delicious, and walking into the shop for the sweet scent is worth the trip alone. Donut shops don't last for nearly 60 years unless they've got something good, and Tony's definitely does.

Miss Portland Diner

It's rare to see any restaurant be relocated more than once, but the Miss Portland Diner story is unique. Launched in 1949, the Miss Portland moved from Forest Avenue to Marginal Way in 1964 to make way for a new Federal Building. It operated there until 2004, when it appeared like it would close permanently. Instead, it was moved again to a new location on Marginal Way, where it continues the traditional of a classic diner.

Pizza Villa

Pizza Villa was founded in 1965 by a Greek immigrant hoping to supplement his income as a tailor. He probably didn't know back then that Pizza Villa would become an institution along Congress Street. From their one-size-fits-all pizza to their perfectly-sized dive bar, Pizza Villa still remains a Portland treasure that draws a crowd.

Quality Shop

Founded in 1935, Quality Shop was once called Janette Quality Shop before it was known by its current name. While so many corner stores have come and gone in Portland, Quality Shop has continued to tweak its offerings to match customers wants and needs. It moved to its current location in 1970, where it remains today.