In the heart of Portland, Maine, nestled among the cobblestone streets and historic brick buildings, sits a restaurant that’s causing quite a flap in the culinary world.
Duckfat, with its unassuming exterior and cozy atmosphere, might not look like much from the outside, but don’t let that fool you.
This little powerhouse of flavor is serving up some of the most mouthwatering dishes this side of the Atlantic, and it’s all thanks to one magical ingredient: duck fat.
Now, I know what you’re thinking.
“Duck fat? Isn’t that just for fancy French chefs and cardiologists looking to drum up business?”
Well, my friends, prepare to have your taste buds enlightened and your culinary horizons expanded.
Duckfat isn’t just a clever name; it’s a promise of flavor that permeates every dish on the menu.
As you approach the restaurant, you might notice a small crowd gathered outside.
Don’t worry, they’re not protesting the use of waterfowl byproducts.
They’re simply waiting for a table, and trust me, it’s worth the wait.
The exterior of Duckfat is charming in its simplicity.
A red awning proudly displays the restaurant’s name, while outdoor seating allows patrons to people-watch while they indulge.
Step inside, and you’re immediately enveloped in a warm, inviting atmosphere that feels like a cross between a cozy bistro and your coolest friend’s kitchen.
The interior is a testament to the restaurant’s commitment to both style and substance.
Exposed brick walls and wooden beams give the space a rustic charm, while the open kitchen allows diners to watch the culinary magic unfold.
The seating is a mix of communal tables and intimate booths, perfect for both solo diners looking to make new friends and couples on a romantic night out.
But enough about the decor.
Let’s talk about what really matters: the food.
Duckfat’s menu is a carefully curated selection of dishes that showcase the versatility and flavor-enhancing properties of their namesake ingredient.
At the heart of the menu are their famous Belgian fries.
These aren’t your average fast-food spuds, my friends.
These fries are hand-cut from Maine potatoes and twice-fried in duck fat until they achieve a level of crispiness that should be illegal in at least 12 states.
The result?
A fry that’s crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and infused with a rich, savory flavor that will make you question everything you thought you knew about potatoes.
But Duckfat doesn’t stop at fries.
Oh no, they’re just getting started.
Their poutine takes those already incredible fries and tops them with locally sourced cheese curds, homemade duck gravy, and fresh chives.
It’s a dish that’s so decadent, so unapologetically indulgent, that you might want to notify your next of kin before diving in.
But don’t worry, they’ll understand once they taste it themselves.
Now, let’s talk about the star of the show: the slow-cooked duck confit.
This dish is a testament to the power of patience and the magic of duck fat.
The duck is cooked low and slow in its own fat until it reaches a level of tenderness that can only be described as “melt-in-your-mouth.”
The result is a dish that’s rich, flavorful, and so satisfying that you might find yourself involuntarily quacking with delight.
But Duckfat isn’t just about the savory.
They’ve got a sweet side too, and it’s just as impressive.
Their milkshakes are the stuff of legend, made with locally sourced gelato and available in flavors that range from classic vanilla to wild Maine blueberry.
And if you’re feeling particularly adventurous, you can even add a shot of bourbon to your shake.
Because why should dinner have all the fun?
Now, I know what some of you health-conscious folks out there might be thinking.
“All this talk of duck fat and fried potatoes… isn’t this place just a heart attack waiting to happen?”
Well, fear not, my kale-munching friends.
Duckfat also offers a selection of fresh, locally sourced salads that are so good, you might forget you’re eating vegetables.
Their roasted beet salad, for example, is a colorful masterpiece that combines earthy beets with tangy goat cheese and crunchy pistachios.
It’s a dish that proves healthy eating doesn’t have to be boring.
And let’s be honest, after indulging in duck fat fries and poutine, your body might be sending out an SOS for something green.
This salad is like a peace offering to your arteries, a vibrant reminder that vegetables can be just as exciting as their fried counterparts.
It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel virtuous without sacrificing flavor.
You might even catch yourself saying, “I came for the duck, but stayed for the beets.”
Who knew root vegetables could be such scene-stealers?
It’s like the salad equivalent of a supporting actor winning an Oscar – unexpected, but totally deserved.
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But Duckfat isn’t just about the food.
They also take their beverages seriously.
Their drink menu features a selection of local craft beers, carefully chosen wines, and non-alcoholic beverages that are as creative as they are delicious.
Take, for example, their Lemon-Thyme Spritzer.
It’s a refreshing twist on a classic summer drink, made with fresh lemon peel, thyme, and cane sugar.
It’s a drink that’s zesty, aromatic, and just a little bit whimsical.
And here’s the thing about this spritzer – it’s not just a thirst-quencher.
The thyme infusion adds a delicate herbal note that perfectly balances the citrusy tang of the lemon.
It’s like the drink equivalent of a sunlit stroll through a blooming garden.
Or take their Wild Cherry Phosphate soda.
It’s a nostalgic nod to old-school soda fountains, crafted with wild cherry, natural sweeteners, and a touch of effervescence.
And here’s the thing about this soda – it’s not just a throwback.
The wild cherry flavor delivers a punch of tartness that cuts through the sweetness, creating a perfectly balanced sip.
It’s like the drink equivalent of finding the coolest antique store on a road trip.
One of the things that sets Duckfat apart is their commitment to using local, high-quality ingredients.
The potatoes for their fries come from Green Thumb Farms in Fryeburg, Maine.
The cheese curds for their poutine are sourced from local dairy farms.
This dedication to local sourcing not only ensures the freshest ingredients but also supports the local economy.
It’s a win-win situation that tastes delicious.
But Duckfat isn’t content to rest on their laurels.
They’re constantly innovating, coming up with new and exciting ways to incorporate duck fat into their dishes.
Their specials board is always worth checking out, featuring seasonal creations that showcase the best of what Maine has to offer.
From duck fat-fried Brussels sprouts in the fall to duck confit tacos in the summer, there’s always something new and exciting to try.
And let’s not forget about their sandwiches.
The duck confit panini is a thing of beauty, featuring tender duck meat, caramelized onions, and melty cheese pressed between two slices of perfectly crispy bread.
It’s a sandwich that will make you question why you ever settled for plain old turkey and cheese.
But perhaps the most impressive thing about Duckfat is how they’ve managed to create a dining experience that’s both elevated and approachable.
Despite the gourmet ingredients and innovative techniques, there’s nothing pretentious about this place.
The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, always happy to explain a dish or recommend a pairing.
The atmosphere is lively and welcoming, with a buzz of conversation and laughter that makes you feel like you’re part of something special.
It’s the kind of place where you can bring a first date to impress them with your culinary savvy, or where you can gather with old friends for a casual catch-up over some seriously good eats.
Now, I know what you’re thinking.
“This all sounds great, but surely a place this good must be expensive, right?”
Well, prepare to be pleasantly surprised.
While Duckfat isn’t exactly fast food prices, it’s also not going to require you to take out a second mortgage.
The portions are generous, the quality is top-notch, and the experience is worth every penny.
Plus, they offer a “flight of fries” option that lets you sample all their dipping sauces.
It’s like a wine tasting, but with potatoes.
And let’s be honest, that’s a much better use of your time and money.
But don’t just take my word for it.
Duckfat has received accolades from food critics and casual diners alike.
It’s been featured in national publications and has become a must-visit destination for foodies traveling to Portland.
But despite all the attention, Duckfat has managed to maintain its charm and commitment to quality.
They haven’t let success go to their heads.
They’re still just a bunch of folks who really, really love duck fat and want to share that love with the world.
So, whether you’re a local looking for a new favorite spot or a visitor wanting to experience the best of what Portland has to offer, Duckfat should be at the top of your list.
Just be prepared for a bit of a wait.
Good things come to those who wait, and trust me, Duckfat is very, very good.
And who knows?
After a meal at Duckfat, you might find yourself looking at that rubber ducky in your bathtub a little differently.
Don’t worry, we won’t judge.
We’ll be too busy planning our next visit.
For more information about Duckfat, including their full menu and hours of operation, visit their website or Facebook page.
And if you’re trying to find your way to this duck-fat paradise, use this map to guide you to culinary bliss.
Where: 43 Middle St, Portland, ME 04101
In the end, Duckfat isn’t just a restaurant.
It’s a celebration of flavor, a testament to the power of a single ingredient, and a reminder that sometimes, the best things in life are worth getting a little greasy for.
