A four-foot neon flamingo casts its pink glow across Crown Jewel Portland, where Alex Wight has transformed a historic Great Diamond Island blacksmithery into Maine's most unexpected cocktail destination. Just a ferry ride from Portland's mainland, this tropical-inspired sanctuary defies New England convention with rattan-topped barstools, palm-print banquettes, and what Wight calls "universal island décor" that channels Key West rather than traditional Maine maritime aesthetics.

Since opening in 2018, Crown Jewel has become Great Diamond Island's crown jewel of hospitality, housed within walls that once echoed with blacksmith hammers and later served as the island's general store. Wight's vision transforms this layered history into a playful yet sophisticated retreat where culinary innovation meets island charm. The restaurant stands as one of only two dining establishments on Great Diamond Island, creating an inherently exclusive experience that attracts discerning guests seeking authenticity beyond Portland's bustling mainland scene.

The cocktail program at Crown Jewel embraces the establishment's whimsical tropical identity through vibrant, refreshing libations that complement the creative seafood-focused menu. Signature cocktails like the "Princess Cut" showcase the bar's commitment to premium craft cocktails, blending gin, grapefruit, and elderflower into a refreshing masterpiece that captures the essence of island sophistication. The "Emerald Ring" delivers tropical brightness through passionfruit and lime, while the decadent "Queen's Tiara" combines vodka, pomegranate, and rose water into a luxurious experience worthy of the bar's regal name. Each cocktail reflects the same innovative spirit found in the kitchen's globally-inspired dishes, from chimichurri-dressed steamed clams to oysters adorned with miso-mushroom butter and yuzu pearls.

The Crown Jewel experience extends far beyond exceptional drinks, encompassing thoughtful hospitality within a transportive atmosphere. The historic building's authentic character merges seamlessly with contemporary island-chic design elements, creating an environment that feels both grounded in place and delightfully escapist. Guests can enjoy cocktails at the central bar or settle into palm-print banquettes while the neon flamingo's ambient glow creates an almost surreal backdrop. The intimate front porch offers additional seating where visitors can savor the island air between sips. Service remains refreshingly unpretentious yet attentive, with staff accommodating ferry schedules and ensuring every guest's experience feels effortlessly curated.

Reservations are essential for this unique Portland cocktail bar, particularly during peak season when ferry capacity limits island access. The casual dress code reflects the laid-back island setting, though the experience itself delivers luxury through creativity and attention to detail. Crown Jewel represents more than a destination—it's a complete escape that transforms a simple evening into an island adventure, making it an essential experience for luxury travelers exploring Portland's most distinctive cocktail offerings.