"Find respite from the notoriously windy section of Free Street at aptly named Leeward, where gorgeous plates of Maine scallop crudo and beef and pork ragu bolognese have made this pasta haven a fast favorite. Owned by chef Jake Stevens — whose resume includes Portland, Oregon’s beloved Beast (now closed) and Portland, Maine’s renowned Eventide (another entry on this list) — alongside general manager and wine director Paige Buehrer, Leeward also offers a smart selection of cocktails (both alcoholic and non-) to go with its excellent house-made pasta." - Stasia Brewczynski