Best brunch in Portland, Maine
Best Brunch in Portland, Maine Starts in the West End
If your ideal morning in Portland includes great coffee, warm pastries, and a brunch menu that actually hits, start in the West End. Ugly Duckling is a bakery and luncheonette on Danforth Street that was built for everyday cravings and weekend plans. The kind of place you can stop in for something quick, stay a little longer, and leave already planning your next visit.
Portland has no shortage of good food. What people are really searching for is the sweet spot: a cozy cafe that feels local, makes everything with care, and has options that work whether you are meeting friends, grabbing takeout, or feeding a group.
Why do people call this a top brunch spot in Portland, Maine
Brunch is not just a meal here. It is a ritual. Ugly Duckling works because it fits the way Portland actually eats.
You want to show up early for coffee and a pastry.
You want a savory option that feels satisfying, not heavy.
You want something sweet that is genuinely worth it.
You want to bring a friend from out of town and feel confident it will be a win.
That is the Ugly Duckling vibe. A bakery case that pulls you in, coffee you can build a morning around, and a menu that covers both sides of the sweet and savory mood.
Coffee, pastries, and the kind of morning you remember
A great brunch starts with the first sip. Ugly Duckling’s beverage lineup includes espresso drinks and drip coffee, plus favorites like matcha and golden milk, so everyone in your group can order what they actually want.
Pair that with pastries made to be the main character, not an afterthought. If you are the type who likes to try something new each visit, you are in the right place. If you have a go-to favorite, you will still find reasons to switch it up.
Tip for visitors: if you are staying downtown or exploring the Old Port, the West End is an easy add-on that makes your day feel more Portland.
Where to find us in Portland, Maine
Ugly Duckling is located at 246 Danforth Street, Portland, ME 04102.
If you are searching for “bakery near me” or “West End cafe, Portland, Maine”, this is exactly the neighborhood you mean.
We are open daily for daytime coffee and brunch, and we also host select Friday evening events.
Planning a group brunch or bringing treats to the office
A lot of people want the Ugly Duckling experience without having to coordinate a full sit-down outing. That is where pre-orders and catering style options come in.
Ugly Duckling supports group orders and can either host or prepare food for you to serve at your gathering.
If you are planning a meeting, a birthday brunch, a shower, or a small celebration, you can build a spread that feels elevated without making it complicated.
Popular group-friendly ideas include:
* Coffee service for a team meeting.
* A mix of pastries for a weekend get-together.
* Dessert trays for celebrations.
* Custom cakes for birthdays and special occasions.
Custom cakes in Portland, Maine
Yes, custom cakes are available. If you are searching for “custom cakes Portland, Maine” or “birthday cake Portland ME”, Ugly Duckling can help you celebrate with something that tastes as good as it looks.
Custom cake ordering typically requires advance notice. Your online ordering menu indicates custom cakes are available with 48 hours in advance for standard sizes.
For larger or more detailed requests, earlier outreach is always a good idea.
How to order
If you know what you want, head to our online ordering page to build your order.
If you are ordering for a group or you want something custom, contact us directly so we can confirm timing and details.
Phone: 207 536 1819
Email: info@uglyducklingmaine.com
What to do if you are visiting Portland
If you are in Portland for a weekend, the best brunch plan is simple.
1.- Start your morning in the West End.
2.- Grab coffee and pastries.
3.- Stay for brunch if you have time.
4.- Take something to go for later.
And if you are looking for an easy gift that locals actually use, grab a gift card so you can bring someone back next time.
Quick answers
Is Ugly Duckling a good brunch spot in Portland, Maine?
Yes. We are a West End bakery and luncheonette on Danforth Street with coffee, pastries, and brunch favorites.
Do you offer custom cakes or large orders?
Yes. Custom cakes and large pre-orders are available, and custom cakes are listed on the online ordering menu with 48 hours' notice.
Where are you located?
246 Danforth Street, Portland, ME 04102.
Come hungry
Whether you are a local looking for your new go-to spot or a visitor searching for the best brunch in Portland, Maine, Ugly Duckling is worth the stop. Show up for coffee and pastries, stay for brunch, and take something sweet for later.
