Blyth & Burrows

Blyth & Burrows is more than just a cocktail bar; it is a conceptual gastronomic space located in the picturesque Old Port district of South Portland. This establishment, which opened its doors in 2017 in the USA, quickly earned a reputation as one of the most stylish spots thanks to its unique blend of maritime history and the fine art of mixology.

The restaurant occupies a bi-level space where every corner is imbued with the spirit of adventure and old-world charm. Upstairs, guests are welcomed by cozy interiors with the soft glow of oil lamps, while hidden deep within the building is a real surprise—a secret speakeasy bar that can be accessed in two unusual ways. This place is perfect for those who appreciate a vintage aesthetic and are looking for something more than just a standard dinner.

The main highlight of Blyth & Burrows is its specialization in signature cocktails and an exquisite raw bar. Here, you can sample the freshest oysters and seafood served alongside drinks inspired by local legends and classic recipes from past centuries. The establishment's high rating confirms that they take both ingredient quality and the creation of a unique atmosphere equally seriously.

For inquiries regarding availability or to book a table for a special occasion, you can contact the establishment directly. Blyth & Burrows is located in a vibrant historic quarter, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists.

Below are the main contact details for communication and navigation:

The main adventure at Blyth & Burrows begins with the cocktail menu. Be sure to try the famous Tom Yum Punch—a bold drink with notes of the popular soup, which critics have called a masterpiece of creativity. If you prefer a new take on the classics, the local mixologists will be happy to create a custom drink for you based on your taste preferences.

For seafood lovers, a visit to the raw bar is a must. It serves delicate oysters, Jonah crab claws, and shrimp cocktails. Pay special attention to "Oyster Social" on Wednesdays: it's a great opportunity to enjoy seafood and sparkling wines at special prices in a very lively and friendly atmosphere.

Don't forget to explore all three of the establishment's spaces. Finding the entrance to the hidden speakeasy bar adds a touch of mystery to the evening. It is an ideal spot for a date or a quiet conversation, with true masters of their craft working behind the bar. Be prepared for it to get noisy on weekends, but that’s the energy that makes a visit to the bar truly memorable.

Blyth & Burrows is located in the heart of the Old Port district at 26 Exchange St. If you are already in the central part of South Portland, you can reach the bar on foot while enjoying views of historic brick buildings and cobblestone streets. From more distant areas, it is convenient to use a taxi or services like Uber and Lyft.

For those who prefer public transport, the METRO bus system serves the Congress Square stop, from which the establishment is just a few blocks away. If you are arriving from Portland International Jetport (PWM), the drive will take about 15–20 minutes depending on traffic.

When planning a trip by car, keep in mind that parking directly on Exchange St is often limited. The best option is to leave your vehicle in one of the public garages in the Old Port area, such as the Elm Street Garage, and walk to the bar to soak in the atmosphere of the port city.

The name of the establishment is not just a catchy phrase, but a tribute to the region's dramatic maritime history. It refers to the events of 1813, when the British ship HMS Boxer and the American USS Enterprise met in a naval battle off the coast of Maine. The commanders of both vessels, Samuel Blyth and William Burrows, showed exceptional courage, but both fell in that battle.

Remarkably, after the battle, both opposing captains were brought to port and buried with full military honors at the Eastern Cemetery. Their graves lie side by side, symbolizing reconciliation in the face of eternity. This touching gesture of chivalry was captured in the records of contemporaries, including Washington Irving, who described the event as a symbol of military honor.

Opened in 2017, the bar seeks to preserve this link across time. The interior is filled with maritime artifacts and antique details, including real oil lamps on the upper level that create the feeling of being on an old ship. Here, history stops being a dry fact and turns into a living atmosphere that complements the flavor of every drink.

If you just want to grab a signature cocktail and a few original tapas, **1–2 hours** will be quite enough. During this time, you can appreciate the bartenders' skill and soak in the unique interior design.

If you are planning a full dinner, want to try a wide range of seafood, and hope to solve the mystery of the *hidden speakeasy* entrance, you should budget **2–3 hours** for your visit. Keep in mind that on Friday and Saturday evenings, the place can get very crowded, and you may need to wait for a table.

The establishment's hours allow you to stop by for a late weekend lunch or a late-night weekday cocktail. Please note that the schedule varies by day of the week:

Monday and Tuesday: from 4:00 PM to 11:00 PM. From Wednesday to Friday, the bar is open from 4:00 PM to midnight. On Saturday, the doors open earlier—from 12:00 PM to 12:00 AM, and on Sunday, guests are welcome from 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM. It is recommended to check the current operating hours on the official website before your visit, especially on holidays.

The area around Exchange Street is literally steeped in history and maritime spirit, so a visit to Blyth & Burrows can easily be combined with exploring the city's iconic landmarks. A stroll through the neighborhood will allow you to see architectural monuments from different eras and enjoy picturesque waterfront views.

Exploring nearby attractions will help you gain a deeper understanding of Maine's character and its rich heritage. Below are the most interesting sites located nearby: