Duckfat

Where Belgian tradition meets Maine ingenuity, Duck Fat Portland has revolutionized casual dining through its legendary hand-cut frites cooked in pure duck fat, creating the most coveted comfort food destination in New England since 2005.

Founded by James Beard Award-winning chef Rob Evans and Nancy Pugh, Duck Fat emerged from Evans' acclaimed fine dining background at The French Laundry and Hugo's, channeling his culinary mastery into an approachable yet sophisticated concept. This pioneering establishment carved out an entirely new niche in Portland's dining scene, proving that exceptional technique could elevate humble ingredients into extraordinary experiences. The restaurant's philosophy centers on the transformative power of duck fat, which imparts an unparalleled richness and depth to every dish it touches.

The cuisine at Duck Fat transcends typical casual fare through meticulous attention to craft and sourcing. The signature Belgian-style frites, hand-cut from Maine potatoes and twice-cooked in duck fat, achieve the perfect balance of crispy exterior and fluffy interior that has drawn pilgrims from across the country. These golden treasures are accompanied by an arsenal of house-made sauces including truffle ketchup, garlic mayo, and curry mayo. The menu extends beyond frites to showcase the Duck Confit Panini, featuring succulent duck meat layered with artisanal accompaniments, and the indulgent Poutine crowned with Maine cheese curds from Pineland Farms and rich duck gravy. Seasonal offerings include duck fat-fried Brussels sprouts, house-cultured labneh, and citrus-scented doughnuts, while milkshakes crafted with local Gelato Fiasco gelato provide the perfect finale.

The original Middle Street location embodies casual sophistication with its intimate counter-service format and communal seating that encourages convivial dining. The no-reservations policy maintains an egalitarian atmosphere where food quality speaks louder than pretense. The expansion to include Duckfat Friteshack near Back Cove Trail demonstrates the concept's versatility, offering outdoor picnic-style dining that captures Maine's natural beauty. The beverage program features carefully curated local beers, wines, and house-made sodas that complement the rich, savory flavors.

Duck Fat represents a masterclass in elevating comfort food through exceptional technique and premium ingredients. Reservations aren't accepted, so arrive early to secure your place at this Portland institution where every bite delivers the perfect marriage of Belgian tradition and Maine terroir.