My husband and I stopped by J's Oyster for lunch yesterday. It is on the water in a great area filled with quaint shops and restaurants. A bowl of Lobster Stew costs $13.00 and it is well worth it. A creamy New England chowder base filled with sweet lobster - I was thrilled. My only regret is that I didn't... more

As out-of-towners, we wanted a true local lobster joint experience and that's what we got at J's. It's a local dive right on the edge of the water. The seafood was great! Got a 1+ lb. lobster, steamers, and coleslaw for $19. I shared a bowl of clam chowder. It was all delicious. I also ordered a cosmo. I think... more

We loved the lobster and the even the clam chowder. Our waitress was not overly friendly but the food was outstanding. It is a very casual, come as you are place located on the water. We enjoyed it more

This is the best place for oysters, bar none. We go at least once a year if not twice from NJ. It surpasses any NYC restaurants. The oysters are fresh and delicious. Served in a baker's dozen. Let's talk about the lobster stew....truly amazing. Buy a bowl for $13. It is full of lobster. And the place is a local... more

This place is really rough around the edges, but it's the best basic seafood you'll have in Portland. Their raw scallop appetizer is a dream come true. Their steamers were the best we had of many places. I don't eat oysters, but my husband loved theirs. They also have a nice beer selection. Nothing beats an Allagash White and a... more

Its small croded and VERY DIRTY, the wait staff caters to regulars and have you seen the bathroom where is the Health Dept NASTY more

J's is the real deal - take it from a long time local. Their seafood is reliably fresh and well prepared (haddock sandwich and lobster bisque among my favorites) and the atmosphere is quintessential waterfront bar - not a disneyland facsimile. It's been a part of the Portland waterfront for at least 30 years and there are a lot of... more

DISGUSTING is the word. The food was O.K. but the bar was DIRTY. When you make the mistake of trying to use the men's room you will NEVER, EVER finish your meal. The overwhelming stench of urine coupled with the sticky floor says it all. Try to wash your hands and you find there is no running hot water. When... more

I have been to J's at least 20 times over the last 7 years and have always had a similar experience. This is a no nonsense place - pushy, flashy tourists don't do well here. Go for the raw bar, steamers, and beer. Treat the staff with respect. Truly a local establishment that doesn't sell out to the tourist croud.... more