Guests can stay in comfortable, oceanfront guest rooms or cottages for a truly complete Midcoast experience. Keep an eye out for a colorful, hand-painted shack on the left side of Route 27. Keep an eye out for a colorful, hand-painted shack on the left side of Route 27. Plan on visiting Maine this summer. Steamed Maine lobster dinners are available Wednesday to Sunday and can be ordered alone (for $25) or as part of a dinner, which includes New England Clam chowder, boiled potato, corn on the cob, coleslaw,grilled cornbread and chocolate chip cookies($45). places to sit along the rushing Bagaduce River, but the lobster roll is much too heavy on the mayo., Things to Do in Boothbay Harbor, Maine, Castine, Maine | A Historic Midcoast Maine Town, In Praise of Spragues Lobster in Wiscasset, Maine, Yankee Magazines Ultimate Guide to Autumn in New England, Yankee Magazines Ultimate New England Winter Guide, Yankee Magazines Ultimate New England Summer Guide, 63 Reasons Why We Love the Cape & Islands. For visitors who have had their fill of lobster rolls, Bets Famous Fish Fry is a great stop to make on the way to or from Boothbay Harbor. Amys Maine lobster roll picks first appeared in Yankee in 2017. This locally owned and operated shack serves all manner of Maine comfort food. Then, and this is the secret grill like a toasted cheese sandwich! Once you arrive on the island, you can look forward to a hearty meal of fish chowder, lobster, potatoes and onion, corn on the cob, and the best blueberry cake in Maine. two problems with Reds: While the sauces are served blessedly on the side, and the butter is poured from an old-fashioned enamel kettle into little plastic cups, the butter congeals as soon as it touches the cold meat. and is a great alternative to generic hotels. Lobster Roll NEVER disappoints and the views are the best! Georgetown, ME 04548. Ericas Seafood in West Harpswell. Wondering which rolls came out on top and which one earned the title of Best Lobster Roll in Maine? They also have a great Crabster Roll if you cant decide! The Ocean Roll in Arundel has a great lobster rollbut their fried clams and scallops make a FABULOUS side!! Worth noting: Bread & Brine has a "In Cod We Trust" program thathelps feed essential workersas well asprovides food to families in need. You can also get it to go for$26.95. This island is more than an excellent place for lobster. Please note that many establishments throughout New England have closed, temporarily closed, or may be operating under modified conditions in response to the COVID-19 health crisis. Special shout out to The Red Barn in Augusta for its Crustacean Elation which definitely wins biggest! 100% Agree!!!! Glad to see some places in Maine carry it now. Reds has been featured in popular publications like. The lobster roll is New Englands top culinary export, and Luke Holden, a third-generation lobsterman turned investment banker turned restaurateur, has made it his mission to spread the lobster gospel around the globe (there are currently 10 Lukes locations in Japan). The lobster tastes like lobster, the bun tastes like butter, and the sauces enrich the lean meat. As the summer season kicks into high gear, the number of lobstermen fishing and the number of lobsterscaught increases. Therefore, lettuce, with its bitter, vegetal flavors and tendency to wilt and turn slimy when exposed to heat or mayonnaise, has no place in any lobster roll, ever. The best lobster sandwich is not a roll at all..this I learned many years ago while spending a week on an island in Penobscot Bay with a friend and her lobster man husband.
For years, Duntons Dog House has been a family favorite. And that means Maine lobsters, anywhere from 3 to 4 pounds wheeled to your table and then cut up and dissected to avoid any messiness. This island is more than an excellent place for lobster. The lobster roll at this general store is a good size with tender meat and the perfect amount of mayo, but the French bread-style bun and extras (cucumber, lemon zest, chives, and lettuce) miss the mark. The ship then takes visitors on a cruise to a small, private island off the coast of Maine. Tender meat and spot-on saucing made this Round Pond roll a worthy contender, but as much as it broke her heart to say it, Amy found the homemade roll too sweet. Are you ready to plan your next getaway to the Boothbay Harbor region? The Pub at Newagen Seaside Inn is one of the best lobster restaurants in Maine. I am a native Mainer, and I never go to Reds. This Vinalhaven food truck serves a roll with meat thats more finely chopped than many, which makes for easier eating, but Amy missed the chew and tear of larger chunks.. This dish consists of a whole lobster, a soft bun, and a side of garlic sea-salted butter. Our restaurant is open from May through October. Arriving between May and October? After all, nothing says summer like cracking into a big, meatycrustacean withwarm butter on the side. Or, go for "Louie Lobster," threesteamed lobster tails, steamed clams and mussels, coleslaw and butter. Weve compiled four of our favorite shacks below! Both will make your heart sing!! It was great! I almost bled to death untill I put ice on it!! Wonderful article and very informative. I can fill up at home for half the price. Jeanne Muchnick covers food and dining. Quidditch Bay Lobster in Eastport closed last year & this (2022) due to family illness. Guarantee you will never go back! So if you cannot make it to Rocklands Annual Lobster Festival or Lobsterpalooza Events in September dont panic as we have you covered! Food trucks need a fair shake! You might also like to take your meal around the corner to sit on the benches with a beautiful view of the ocean. This spot has street parking and outdoor seating, and is perfect for hungry visitors who dont care much for pomp and circumstance. To reserve your table, please call us at (207) 371-2616. Then I ate the darn thing! Complimentary breakfast is always included in your stay. The roll at this popular shack in the southern tourist town of Kennebunkport boasts big chunks of meat, claws, and tail. Despite the fact that the roll is served on a fluffy, buttery hamburger bun, Amy had to admit it was still pretty great. Reservations are recommended! , located in Downtown Boothbay Harbor. Here, you can enjoy a glass of wine on your own balcony, and watch the boats sail by on, . The view, sitting by the bay is fantastic and you will likely see many whales, bald eagles and porpoises. Be sure to check this, list of Boothbay Harbor restaurants open in the off-season. Still, there are times we want the whole shebang and thats fine too. Reds in Wiscasset Maine a little different from when I was growing up there but still one of the best in Maine. It is a tourist destination only. Stay Near All of the Best Lobster Shacks in Maine, The best time for lobster in Maine is all the time! Sometimes, too much is not a good thing, especially for the cash! In the end, Amy made a list of top spots, compiled over several weeks of talking with local food experts and a source list from 15 years of personal experience, and then rated each roll on a 10-point scale based on portion size, texture, sweetness, saucing, bun, extraneous additions (e.g., the dreaded lettuce), and ambiance. Loved my lobster roll at Surf 6, Old Orchard, Me. Weve not been to all of Amys choices (its a LONG drive from our home near the VT border), but have really enjoyed some of them. Reds in Wiscassett too much hype. You will see all sorts of creative lobster dishes including lobster ravioli, lobster Panini, lobster salad, lobster pies and a crowd favorite lobster mac n cheese. You can also add a four ouncelobster tail to any dinner for $7.99. It is an excellent choice for those who want to eat somewhere a little more elevated than a lobster shack in Maine. According to the Maine Lobster Council, lobster is heart-healthy and is low in calories and fat and contains less cholesterol than lean beef, chicken breast or eggs. Read on to discover five of the best lobster shacks in Maine. It is an excellent choice for those who want to eat somewhere a little more elevated than a lobster shack in Maine. Warren Lobster House Kittery. Go:19 Main St.,914-479-5243,breadandbrinehoh.com. It has closed, but it use to be Waterman Beach Lobster, South Thomaston Just my opinion here, but the number 2 rated lobster roll in this article comes with a pickle slice on it? We really miss that spot. Makes me question the whole list. In addition, the Inn offers. The months with the largest lobster catches tend to be August and September when a majority of the lobsters caught are also soft-shelled. This up-and-coming Portland food truck with views of Cape Elizabeth Light serves its Maine-style roll dressed in mayonnaise and fresh chives. What sort of maniac puts pickles on a lobster roll? The best time for lobster in Maine is all the time! But only 1 was from the true Down East I think she tried the wrong places. And these rolls are huge, much too big to bite into unless you remove half the contents. Can sometimes be a little heavy on mayo, but that still doesnt diminish the overall greatness of the lobster roll! Simplicity at its best but with a twist. The lobster rolls from Footbridge Lobster in Perkins Cove are beyond excellent and among the best weve ever had. Restaurant had nice ambiance and is right on the beach. 2022 www.lohud.com. Even though I forgot to take the rubber bands off claws, when I remembered I took it back out and dropped and it the claw got my big toe! Southport, ME 04576 Here are 4 of the Best Lobster Shacks in Maine, Located just minutes from the towns of Southport and Boothbay Harbor is, . Lobster rolls and steamed lobster dinners will appear on most lunch and dinner menus throughout the area. No vacation to Maine or the Cape this year? Subscribe to our newsletter to learn more about upcoming events and specials in the area. Go:191 S. Main Street, 845-499-2470,theplacenewcity.com. No problem. The hot lobsta roll- a Connecticut invention warm lobster, melted butter, toasted roll, beats all the others by a mile. Whether visitors come here for a family reunion or to simply escape city life for a little while, they always find an exciting activity that suits their lifestyle. What some might not know, however, is that over half of the lobster eaten in North America is harvested right here in the Midcoast region! Reds has only a couple of picnic tables. 
dramatically. It offers none of the work and all of the great taste! If your are visiting our Rockland inn during the winter months, the Lobstermans Restaurant, Waterfront and Rockland Caf arethe three restaurantsin Rockland or Camden are that consistently offer whole lobster dinners. Be sure to check this list of Boothbay Harbor restaurants open in the off-season before planning a fall or winter trip! Newagen Seaside Inn We recommend trying the classic lobster roll, which is piled high with the meat of an entire lobster! Best Ive ever found, and I am a lobster roll snob, is The Maine Lobster Lady on Isle au Haut. After a delicious meal at one of the best lobster shacks in Maine, take an easy drive back to Grey Havens Inn to relax. First very simple lobster meat with a touch of mayo..dont drown it! Nice job, but you can be certain that I will not drive to Reds after your review. Its an incredibly useful tool for planning unforgettable Midcoast Maine vacations. not have their picnic area available. Last September I ate across the street from Reds Eats because the line st Reds was so long around the corner. Please travel responsibly, and check with state guidelines and individual businesses before making travel plans. Celery, shallots, lemon zest, lobster roe, chives all may be considered on a case-by-case basis, but tradition runs deep here. This locally owned and operated shack serves all manner of Maine comfort food. One of the most popular lobster shacks in Maine is. In the winter months try your fresh lobster as Lobster Stew or Lobster Chowder. Most restaurants do not have their own lobster tanks in house which is necessary to increase the shelf life of a fresh lobster. Heavenly! . Ill put Bobs Clam Hut or Browns(now that theyve reopened), and Lukes on my lobster bucket list. After discarding the rolls limp lettuce, Amy found meat that was wonderfully plump and tender, and a view to match. Loved that place. Pardon the pun but this is "the place" for a deal-lovers thanks to the restaurant's Friday night lobsterfest. Go:641 Piermont Ave., 845-359-9852,cornettas.com. 343 Waterman Rpad, Maine. Thepromotion, which runs from 4 to 9 p.m., includes a 1 pound lobster, corn on the cob and potato salad for $21.95. Arriving between May and October? For a complete list of the areas best dining, shopping, and adventuring suggestions, request access to our free. It is an experience in itself! Where you decide to eat it will depend on if you want it in the rough outside at a picnic table overlooking the water or in a fine dining establishment. The best part about dining at Newagen Seaside Inns on-property restaurant? Locals love taking their after-dinner drink to the wraparound deck and watching signature Maine sunsets! Freshest you ill find anywhere. Steamed or boiled lobster is on the menu at this nostalgic spot, in business (and family-run albeit with a 17-year break in between when it was soldto a group of investors) since1931. For waterfront views and privacy, reserve the, . Here, you can enjoy a glass of wine on your own balcony, and watch the boats sail by on Harmons Harbor. Coastal Living Magazine named this eatery one of the best seafood dives in the state, and also gave the shack recognition as home to one of the best lobster rolls in Maine! This dish consists of a whole lobster, a soft bun, and a side of garlic sea-salted butter. Its an incredibly useful tool for planning unforgettable Midcoast Maine vacations. I second the recommendation of Ericas in West Harpswell. ), but you can get it dressed how you like with butter, mayo or miracle whip. If you are ready to plan your next getaway, check our current specials and book your stay. From Fairhope Alabama! Hudson Valley Steakhouse, Yorktown Heights, Saltaire Oyster Bar and Fish House, Port Chester, Your California Privacy Rights / Privacy Policy. The Bun: The roll must be split-top, buttered, and toasted on a griddle. And A Taste of Maine in Arundel has a delicious one as well. All rights reserved. I love Reds except for the wait, but Belle Isle in Winthrop, MA is top notch, dine inside or on deck overlooking the ocean & watch the planes come & go at Logan.
Because of this and the fact that locals do NOT eat lobster out in restaurants, most restaurants do not feature whole lobster dinners on their menus in the winter months. We recommend trying the classic lobster roll, which is piled high with the meat of an entire lobster! Of special note: Conte's grandfather started the market in 1947; it has been at this location since1951 and remains family-run. Youll love the warm hospitality and Old Maine feel that our inn is known for. Plus, you can walk the Marginal Way from Ogunquit to get there which only adds to the enjoyment and overall experience. It is odd in the self-proclaimed Lobster Capital of the world that not every restaurant serves fresh lobster everyday year round but sadly it is true. No list of the best lobster shacks in Maine is complete without Five Islands Lobster. Its the stuff of fantasies!! For those who want the best of both worlds, there'salsosurf and turf, as well astwin 7-ounce Maine lobster tails on the menu. Keep in mind, this is for Fridays only through Labor Day. All of the rolls looked delicious.. BUT.. McLoons was Amys top pick for the best lobster roll in Maine. Cant beat McLoons! Is Nova Scotia, for lobster roll purposes, considered on the New England team? Grey Havens Inn 2022. SUBSCRIBER ONLY: New Westchester restaurants, SUMMER SIPS: Beer gardens in Westchester, Rockland, TIME TO DINE: Special Hudson Valley offers start in August. 5 of the Best Things to Do in Boothbay Harbor. Summer in Maine is never complete without indulging in a lobster dinner. This drives the price up considerably (and Reds takes only cash). of tarragon ..go lightly..easy to overdo. Both the lobster roll and crabster are so fresh and delicious. The restaurant also just opened Port Saltaire, itsnew al fresco dining space where you can dine under the stars. Read on to discover five of the, . Though there's seating inside, it's more fun to sit in the backyard patio with its lobster string lights and beachvibe, putting you in a Cape Cod state of mind. Last time I was there before it closed its no-frills lobster bun was so fresh and sweet. Check out lohud'slatest subscription offers here. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); This setting should only be used on your home or work computer. The Midcoast regions lobster harvests dont stop in the off-season. All rights reserved. And, if you are hungry for more, take advantage of our Stay & Dine Package. Even better: Depending on where you sit, you'll enjoy a view of the Hudson. Whether visitors come here for a family reunion or to simply escape city life for a little while, they always find an exciting activity that suits their lifestyle. Our restaurant is open from May through October. Roberts is one of my favorite as well, good choice, Yall want a solid lobster roll go to camerons seafood in Brunswick only place in maine ill go ..smoke a doobie cruise out enjoy and vwala delicioso. In addition, the Inn offers activities, events, and much more. Reds has been featured in popular publications like DownEast Magazine, and celebrity foodies like Andrew Zimmern have given it their seal of approval. , and celebrity foodies like Andrew Zimmern have given it their seal of approval. Website Design by Q4Launch. On a similar best lobster roll in Maine quest nearly a decade earlier, this Wiscasset shack was Yankees top pick and the traffic-jamming lines that snake from the counter every summer are a testament to its enduring popularity. This local favorite serves one of the areas tastiest lobster rolls. This roadside Yarmouth shack, a local landmark since 1926, serves up a no-frills sweet-meat lobster roll. Go:448 Main St., 914-666-6929,contesfish.com. The menu is limited to fish sandwiches, fish in a dish, and french fries, but the food is simple, honest, and given in huge portions. This Brunswick roll may be the perfect size with good meat, but according to Amy, the lobster meat had communed too long with the mayo, and she gave the roadside ambiance. Youll love the warm hospitality and Old Maine feel that our inn is known for. Ill have to stop in at McLoons this coming September for sure!! But if you want tons of lobster and moneys no object, this is the roll for you. Blakes in Belgrade lightly poached big claw pieces with made fresh daily lemon aioli on the bottom and clarified butter drizzled on top, in a hot dog roll lightly grilled with butter. Lobsters are 1.5 pounds and servedoutdoors only; no indoor options here. The location (and large parking lot) in one of Maines busiest tourist towns takes away points for ambiance, but the perfectly griddled bun and blessed lack of lettuce or garnishes earned it a spot on Amys list. The best part about dining at Newagen Seaside Inns on-property restaurant? The ship then takes visitors on a cruise to a small, private island off the coast of Maine. There are lots of lobster choices at this casual eclectically-decoratedseafood shack including lobster for one, meaning a 1 pound lobster, steamed clams and mussels, drawn butter and coleslaw, lobster for two (double that) or the New England clam bake, a combination of lobster, steamed clams, mussels, shrimp and scallops, red potatoes, coleslaw and butter. This beloved Wiscasset lobster shack attracts visitors looking for a midday lobster roll or late-night snack. Just the right size, excellent bun., At this shack at the easternmost edge of Maine, near the Canadian border in the town of Eastport, Amy described the meat as the sweetest weve had so far. Even better, the kitchen garnishes each roll with two prettily preserved claws.. And while butter may be better (or not), it should be poured over warm meat, lest it congeal. Best lobster roll in my opinion is at Roberts Grill in Kittery. After a delicious meal at one of the best lobster shacks in Maine, take an easy drive back to Grey Havens Inn to relax. Read on. The menu is limited to fish sandwiches, fish in a dish, and french fries, but the food is simple, honest, and given in huge portions. The Lobster sandwich I had was very good. End your search for the best lobster restaurant in Maine when you dine with us at Blue Restaurant. One of the most popular lobster shacks in Maine is Shannons Unshelled, located in Downtown Boothbay Harbor. This drives the price up considerably (and Reds takes only cash). Hungry for Maine lobster? . Located just minutes from the towns of Southport and Boothbay Harbor is Reds Eats. This local favorite serves one of the areas tastiest lobster rolls. Quoddy Bay in Eastport has posted on their website that they will not be opening for takeout this season. In this Maine lobster roll mission, there would be no excuses for oversalted cooking water, overcooked meat, or a badly buttered bun. We cant wait to host you at Grey Havens Inn! This perfectly portioned Boothbay Harbor lobster earned top marks for its sweet meat, but a disappointingly dry bun kept it out of the top 5. Essentially this is the meat already picked out of the lobster and is served hot sauted in butter. Still, Warrens is our favorite. Click below to check availability and book your stay at Newagen Seaside Inn today! Reservations highly suggested. Note: This spot is open seasonally and only takes cash. Fishermans Catch in Raymond is one of my favorite places. Located at the base of Mount Desert Island, this shack, with its Instagram-ready wall of lobster buoys, is arguably one of the most picturesque in all of New England. It wouldnt be easy to compare so many rolls tasted only hours or days apart and determine one single best lobster roll in Maine winner, so she sat down and laid out a set of criteria as well as a searching and fearless written inventory of my own lobster roll biases.. Locals love taking their after-dinner drink to the wraparound deck and watching signature Maine sunsets! The Shack: Every great roll deserves a great view. In Penobscot, this shack offers noteworthy seafood and shadyplaces to sit along the rushing Bagaduce River, but the lobster roll is much too heavy on the mayo.. It is a casual eatery, and longtime visitors recommend ordering a meal, picking out your lobster, going next door to buy a cold six-pack (customers may bring their own), and enjoying beautiful views from the dock. I sometimes at a smidge Reservations are recommended! Lobster left to sit in mayo absorbs its flavor and turns flabby. Please update your lists. I loved it. Add a few of the lobster shacks in Maine to your itinerary, and dont forget to consider the countless other attractions in the Midcoast area! But if you want tons of lobster and moneys no object, this is the roll for you. Footbridge Lobster Perkins Cove Ogunquit has the best lobster rolls. That is why it is essential to try a delicious roll or whole lobster at one of the best lobster shacks in Maine. Also it is high in amino acids, vitamins and minerals you need. This quirky and beach shack in Harpswell is in a great waterfront location and serves the lettuce on the side, but Amy noted with disappointment that the meat had been marinating in mayo to the point of indistinguishability.. And, if you are hungry for more, take advantage of our.
The number of restaurants that serve lobster will significantly differ between the warm summer months and the quieter time of year. Although dipping it in warm butter is out of this world delicious to keep with the healthier theme try eating it with just the juice of a fresh lemon or some Meyers Lemon Olive Oil from FIORE Artisan Olive Oils and Vinegars. Spragues across the street from Reds in Wiscasset is just as good as Reds, costs about the same, and there is seating for diners. The diminutive Maine lobster roll at Eventide Oyster Co. in Portland is so atypical, with its Chinese-style steamed bun and brown butter sauce, that it really needs its own taxonomy. ! Take out only. Fishermans Catch has a mayo option, a butter option, a lemon-pepper option, and a mayo and relish option. traffic-jamming lines that snake from the counter every summer are a testament to its enduring popularity. For waterfront views and privacy, reserve the Sunrise Suite. This beloved Wiscasset lobster shack attracts visitors looking for a midday lobster roll or late-night snack. Sauces: Mayonnaise should be tossed with the meat just before serving or served on the side. Our restaurant is nestled along the natural harbor front of Midcoast Maine and evokes the elegance and charm of historic, Old Maine. Using only the finest, local ingredients, including fresh-caught fish and Maine lobster, Chef Esau Crosby will delight and surprise you with his clever take on North Atlantic cuisine. Years ago when I was stationed at Pease Air Force Base in Portsmouth NH, Warrens in Kittery was the best. The menu includes hot dogs, chili dogs, hamburgers, clam chowder, and a deliciously simple lobster roll. Some of the best seafood restaurants in Maine are open seasonally, but others are open all year round. The owner catches the seafood herself and ensures that it is served fresh every day. Add truffle fries and a cold glass ofros, and relish the flavors of summer. Weve also got the recipe, so you can make one yourself at home. This spot has street parking and outdoor seating, and is perfect for hungry visitors who dont care much for pomp and circumstance. You can also chooseto crack your own. Originally called The Franklin Park Tavern, the restaurant, with a seafood market next door, hasa reputation for its high quality fishand comfortable tavern vibe. PO Box 29 Served on toasted roll, with Mayo or butter on the side and 5 oz. Reds has too much lobster?!!! and well send along everything visitors need to know about booking a stay in beautiful Southport. Cabbage Island Clambakes offers a one-of-a-kind dining experience.