From a New Years post about resolutions: See the world. It’s time to go exploring. It’s a great feeling to realize you’re accomplishing little goals set months ago. Last weekend I escaped the humidity and wacky DC weather and went to Portland, Maine with Jenna and Tammy.

It’s a quick flight up from DC, but you’ll feel far and away. Our weekend was centered around food – no surprise there, it’s how I met these good friends. But there’s something great about traveling with people who all feel the same way about something. A second coffee shop to compare beans and baked goods? Absolutely. A third lobster roll? Duh. Naps before dinner? Of course.

Places to go, things to eat in Portland, Maine

Eventide Oyster Co.– the four photos above are from this seriously special spot. We loved it somuch, we went back twice. Order: brown butter lobster rolls, fried chicken rolls with homemade buttermilk ranch, crispy pork, tuna tartare, fried oyster rolls with tartar sauce, giant homemade ice cream sandwiches.

Oxbow – local Portland brewery. I loved the Grizacca

Speckled Axe – cute coffee shop with the nicest people, wood roasted coffee, and killer cake doughnuts. I didn’t make it to Tandem Coffee, but would have liked to also.

Hugo’s – same (brilliant) owners as Eventide. Tasting menu. Pricey but fantastic, especially if you’re a seafood lover.

Piccolo – a charming little Italian restaurant. The cavatelli pasta with lamb neck ragu, eggplant, orange, and Pecorino was stellar – I want to put orange in all of my pastas now.

Eastern Promenade – loved our long walk along the water here, even on a cloudy morning. We didn’t go, but I heard great things about the Front Room restaurant nearby for brunch.

Standard Baking Co. – fresh bread and baked goods from one of the best. Their cookbooks are fantastic too.

Portland Hunt & Alpine Club – great cocktail bar, cute dudes, awesome decor.

K. Colette – obsessed with this home decor shop downtown. It’s a must-visit for colorful bedding, beautiful gifts, and fun kitchen accessories.

Becky’s Diner – reminds me of NJ diners and summer vacations (Downeyflake on Nantucket) all at once. Perfect on a rainy day. Homemade hash and pancakes were seriously excellent. I wish we all had a Becky’s nearby.

Ok, and just one more lobster roll at Eventide, please.