15 Maine Spots Serving Lobster Rolls Packed With Pure Coastal Flavor
Maine’s coast is famous for one thing above all else: the lobster roll. Fresh lobster meat piled high on a buttered bun is more than just a sandwich here it’s a way of life.
Whether you prefer yours with mayo or melted butter, these spots across the state serve up some of the best lobster rolls you’ll ever taste.
1. Red’s Eats
You’ll see the line before you see the building.
Red’s Eats sits at 16 Water St, Wiscasset, ME 04578.
People wait for hours sometimes, but one bite explains why.
The lobster roll here is absolutely massive, with fresh meat spilling out from every side of the toasted bun.
They give you butter and mayo on the side so you can dress it however you want.
Some folks say it’s the best in the entire state.
The portions are so generous that you might struggle to finish it all.
I think the wait is totally worth it for this amount of fresh lobster.
Bring your patience and your appetite.
2. The Clam Shack
Since 1968, this place has been perfecting the art of the lobster roll.
The Clam Shack is located at 2 Western Ave, Kennebunk, ME 04043.
They handpick every piece of claw, knuckle, and tail meat that goes into your roll.
The bun gets toasted just right, with a golden crunch on the outside.
Food magazines and travel shows have featured this spot for good reason.
Locals line up here alongside tourists because the quality never drops.
You can taste the decades of experience in every bite.
The meat is always sweet and tender, never overcooked.
I recommend getting there early to avoid the lunch rush.
3. Five Islands Lobster Co
Eating right on a working dock makes everything taste better.
Five Islands Lobster Co is at 1447 5 Islands Rd, Georgetown, ME 04548.
The lobster you’re eating was probably caught that very morning.
You can watch the boats come in while you enjoy your meal at the picnic tables.
The harbor views are absolutely stunning, with islands dotting the water in every direction.
This is what people picture when they imagine eating lobster in Maine.
The rolls are simple but perfect, letting the fresh seafood shine through.
Seagulls might try to steal a bite, so keep an eye on your food.
I love the authentic atmosphere here.
4. McLoons Lobster Shack
Family recipes sometimes turn out to be the best recipes.
McLoons Lobster Shack sits at 315 Island Rd, South Thomaston, ME 04858.
The same family has been running this place for years, and they know exactly what they’re doing.
Each roll comes with generous portions of fresh lobster lightly dressed with mayo.
The bun is always toasted to perfection, warm and buttery.
You’ll eat with a view of the harbor, watching boats bob in the water.
Everything feels relaxed and welcoming here, like visiting relatives who happen to serve amazing seafood.
The meat is always tender and sweet.
I think this spot captures the heart of Maine’s lobster tradition.
5. Quoddy Bay Lobster
Boat-to-plate freshness isn’t just a saying here.
Quoddy Bay Lobster is located at 7 Sea St, Eastport, ME 04631.
This family-run market knows every fisherman who brings in their catch.
The lobster roll comes on a buttered, grilled New England split-top bun that’s crispy on the outside.
You won’t find lobster any fresher than what they serve here.
Eastport sits way up on the northeastern coast, so it’s a bit of a journey to get here.
But the trip is worth it for seafood this good.
Everything tastes like it came straight from the ocean moments ago.
I appreciate how they keep things simple and let the lobster speak for itself.
6. Bite Into Maine
Food trucks can serve food just as good as any restaurant.
Bite Into Maine operates from various locations around Portland and Cape Elizabeth.
They’ve won awards for their creative takes on the classic lobster roll.
You can get yours with truffle oil, wasabi mayo, or other fun twists.
The classic version is still amazing if you want to keep it traditional.
They use only the freshest lobster, and you can taste the quality in every bite.
The truck’s bright colors make it easy to spot wherever it parks.
People follow their social media to track down their location each day.
I love how they mix tradition with innovation.
7. Eventide Oyster Co
Sometimes a different approach creates something special.
Eventide Oyster Co is at 86 Middle St, Portland, ME 04101.
Their lobster roll breaks tradition by using a steamed Chinese bun instead of the usual toasted one.
They dress the lobster with brown butter, which adds a rich, nutty flavor.
This might sound weird at first, but it works incredibly well.
The soft, pillowy bun contrasts perfectly with the tender lobster meat.
Food critics from national publications have praised this unique version.
You’ll also find amazing oysters and other seafood here.
I think trying new things can lead to discovering your new favorite.
8. Harraseeket Lunch & Lobster
Casual outdoor dining hits different when you’re by the water.
Harraseeket Lunch & Lobster sits at 36 Main St, South Freeport, ME 04078.
You order at the window, then grab a seat at one of the picnic tables overlooking the harbor.
The lobster rolls here are straightforward and delicious, with plenty of meat on a toasted bun.
Watching the boats come and go while you eat adds to the whole experience.
This place has been a local favorite for decades.
The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly, perfect for a summer afternoon.
You might see seals popping up in the water if you’re lucky.
I always feel happy eating here.
9. The Lobster Shack at Two Lights
Lighthouses and lobster rolls go together like peanut butter and jelly.
The Lobster Shack at Two Lights is located at 225 Two Lights Rd, Cape Elizabeth, ME 04107.
You can see the historic lighthouse from your picnic table while eating your meal.
The location alone makes this place worth visiting, but the food backs it up.
They serve classic Maine-style lobster rolls with just the right amount of mayo.
The ocean crashes against the rocks below, creating the perfect soundtrack for your lunch.
This spot has been featured in countless travel guides and magazines.
Tourists and locals alike come here for the combination of great food and incredible views.
I recommend timing your visit for sunset.
10. Barnacle Billy’s
Ogunquit’s dining scene includes some real gems.
Barnacle Billy’s is at 50 Perkins Cove Rd, Ogunquit, ME 03907.
The deck overlooking Perkins Cove offers one of the best dining views in southern Maine.
Their lobster rolls come piled high with sweet, tender meat on a perfectly toasted bun.
You can choose between the mayo-based version or one served with warm butter.
Either way, you’re getting top-quality lobster that’s incredibly fresh.
The restaurant has been a fixture in Ogunquit for years.
After your meal, you can walk around the cove and explore the shops and galleries.
I think the whole experience makes for a perfect Maine afternoon.
11. Cape Pier Chowder House
Kennebunkport knows how to do seafood right.
Cape Pier Chowder House sits at 79 Pier Rd, Cape Porpoise, ME 04014.
The restaurant overlooks a working harbor where fishing boats tie up right outside.
Their lobster rolls feature generous portions of fresh meat with a light mayo dressing.
The bun is buttered and grilled until it’s golden and crispy.
You’ll also want to try their clam chowder, which many consider the best in the area.
The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, with friendly staff who treat everyone like regulars.
Cape Porpoise itself is a beautiful little village worth exploring before or after your meal.
I always enjoy my visits here.
12. Bayley’s Lobster Pound
Family traditions keep some places special for generations.
Bayley’s Lobster Pound is located at Pine Point in Scarborough, ME 04074.
This place has been run by the same family since it opened decades ago.
The lobster rolls are simple and perfect, with fresh meat and minimal dressing.
They let the natural sweetness of the lobster shine through without covering it up.
You can eat outside by the water and watch the boats go by.
Everything feels authentic here, like stepping back to a simpler time.
The staff is always friendly and happy to answer questions about their seafood.
I appreciate places that stick to what they do best.
13. Lobster Dock
Boothbay Harbor draws visitors from all over for good reason.
Lobster Dock is at 49 Atlantic Ave, Boothbay Harbor, ME 04538.
The restaurant sits right on the water, giving you front-row seats to all the harbor activity.
Their lobster rolls are stuffed with fresh, sweet meat on a toasted bun.
You can order yours with butter or mayo, depending on your preference.
The portions are generous without being overwhelming.
After eating, you can walk around the harbor and check out the shops and galleries.
Boothbay is one of Maine’s most popular coastal towns, and this restaurant shows you why.
I love spending a whole afternoon here.
14. Chauncey Creek Lobster Pier
Hidden gems sometimes turn out to be the most memorable.
Chauncey Creek Lobster Pier sits at 16 Chauncey Creek Rd, Kittery Point, ME 03905.
You’ll need to know where you’re going because this place isn’t on the main road.
But once you find it, you’ll understand why people keep coming back.
The setting along the tidal creek is absolutely beautiful and peaceful.
Their lobster rolls feature tender, sweet meat on a perfectly toasted bun.
You can bring your own drinks and side dishes, which makes it feel like a picnic.
Families spread out at the picnic tables and make an afternoon of it.
I think this place captures something special about Maine summers.
15. Trenton Bridge Lobster Pound
Your trip to Acadia should include a stop here.
Trenton Bridge Lobster Pound is located at 1237 Bar Harbor Rd, Trenton, ME 04605.
This spot sits right on the route to Mount Desert Island and Acadia National Park.
The lobster rolls here are loaded with fresh meat and served on buttered, toasted buns.
You can eat outside and enjoy views of the water while seagulls circle overhead.
They also sell live lobsters if you want to cook your own later.
The location makes it perfect for a meal before or after exploring the park.
Everything tastes better when you’re on vacation in one of Maine’s most beautiful areas.
I always make this a must-stop on my Acadia trips.
