After a gorgeous tour of Casco Bay, it was time for lunch. I headed to Duckfat located on Middle Street near my hotel. The independently and locally owned sandwich shop is known for their Belgian-style fries, signature paninis, and decadent milkshakes.
The place is small and there was a long wait, but I was immediately shown to a seat at the end of the counter. Solo dining pays off once again!
It was a warm sunny day and I had to have a cold local beer, so I ordered the Liquid Riot IPAwesome Vol. X. I also saw their all natural craft sodas on the menu and decided to try the Ginger Zinger made with Maine grown ginger, lemon zest, and a touch of red pepper. Very nice.
I had to try their famous hand-cut Belgian Fries made with Maine potatoes and fried in duck fat. They’re simply tossed in seasoning salt and served in a paper cone. They have delicious homemade dipping sauce to go along with them as well. These fries were the inspiration and reason for opening Duckfat.
I had the small order of fries and easily could have gotten a large. I couldn’t decide which dipping sauce to get so I went with their Flight of Sauces where you get all five. Best decision ever. The fries were incredibly hot, crispy, and perfectly seasoned. The sauces were great too. I really liked the truffle ketchup, curry mayo, and horseradish mayo.
I also had to try a panini. The Overnight Duck Confit panini may be their #1 seller, but I went with the Slow Roasted Pulled Pork Cubano made Swiss cheese, mustard pickles, and garlic-mustard mayo. The bread is baked daily by Sorella’s Bakehouse. Yummmmm!
A craft soda, the incredible fries, tasty dipping sauces, and awesome panini sandwich – what a lunch!
I was plenty full, but could not leave without trying “The Original” Duckfat Milkshake!
Oh man, the milkshake was excellent! It’s made with vanilla gelato with crème anglaise and fresh Tahitian vanilla bean. It was rich, thick, and a very generous serving. I took the rest of it back to the hotel. Sometimes you just gotta indulge and enjoy!
My lunch at Duckfat was extremely satisfying. The thousands of calories I probably consumed during this amazing meal was well worth it! It’s another must-try in Portland and I would eat there again no questions asked.
Duckfat
43 Middle Street
Portland, ME 04101
(207) 774-8080
Website
