Allagash Brewing Company, Portland (must see)

Allagash Brewing Company, founded in 1995 by Rob Tod, specializes in Belgian-style beers and has grown into one of the most respected breweries in the United States. Tod’s vision was to fill a gap in the American beer market, offering authentic Belgian-style brews when German and British styles dominated.

The brewery’s flagship beer, Allagash White, is a Belgian Witbier brewed with wheat, Curaçao orange peel, coriander, and other spices. Its unique flavor profile and traditional bottle-conditioning process-featuring two fermentations, including one in the bottle-give it remarkable complexity and a smooth, effervescent character.

Allagash is also known for pioneering the use of a traditional coolship in the US, enabling spontaneous fermentation with wild yeasts to create authentic Lambic-style beers.

The brewery offers over 15 beers on draft year-round, alongside housemade cider and wine, and features a cozy, temperature-controlled indoor space with additional outdoor seating. Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood and other local treats from the onsite food truck, including the award-winning lobster rolls from Bite Into Maine.

With numerous medals from top international beer competitions, Allagash Brewing Company stands as a beloved cultural and community hub in Portland for beer lovers seeking genuine Belgian-inspired brews.