The Well Worn Shoes

Wanderlust Welcome

  • Home
  • Start Here
    • About
    • Contact
    • Work With Me
    • Disclaimer
    • Affiliate Disclaimer
  • Destinations
    • Canada
    • United States
      • Mountain States
      • North East
      • South
      • Southwest
  • National Parks
    • National Park Guides
    • Is This National Park Dog Friendly?
  • Adventures
    • One Day In
    • Bucketlist Travel
    • Dog Friendly
    • Roadtrips
    • Travel Guides
    • Hiking
  • Digital Nomad Lifestyle
    • Camper Life
    • Honest Reviews: Campgrounds
    • Digital Nomads
  • Shop

May 8, 2021

The 12 Best Lobster Rolls In Maine

[2026 Guide]

Updated: April 2026

On my very first trip to Maine in 2015, I had my first lobster roll and was immediately hooked. Not just on the lobster rolls but on Maine itself. It’s such an underrated state, and honestly, there is so much to love about the entire place. But there is something special about coastal Maine with its rugged coastline, lobster boats, and of course – LOBSTER ROLLS!

You won’t find lobster shacks in short supply while visiting coastal Maine, but not all lobster rolls are created equally. After years of dedicated “research” (aka eating my weight in lobster), I consider myself a lobster roll connoisseur at this point. I’ve had A LOT of lobster rolls, from Portland to Bar Harbor, Kennebunkport to Acadia. Some forgettable, some life-changing.

This list? These are the life-changing ones.

Whether you’re road-tripping up the coast, spending a week near Acadia National Park, or just passing through on your way to Canada, these are the lobster shacks worth planning your trip around. I’ve included classic Maine-style rolls, unexpected twists, hidden gems, and a few spots with views that are almost as good as the food.

Let’s dive into the best lobster rolls in Maine!

You May Also Like: 

  • One Day In Portland, Maine
  • Camden, Maine: A Charming Coastal Town
  • 13 Shops You Can’t Miss In Bar Harbor
  • 15 Best Dog-Friendly Hikes in Acadia National Park
The Best Lobster Rolls In Maine
 [show]
  • [2026 Guide]
    • Who Made The First Lobster Roll?:
    • So What Makes A Maine Lobster Roll?: 
    • The Top 10 Lobster Rolls In Maine
      • 10. Cape Elizabeth, Maine
        • Price: 
        • On The Roll: 
        • The View: 
      • 9. Wiccassette, Maine – 
        • Price – 
        • On The Roll – 
        • The View – 
      • 8. Boothbay Harbor, Maine – 
        • Price: 
        • On The Roll: 
        • The View: 
      • 7. Thomaston, Maine – 
        • Price: 
        • On The Roll:
        • The View: 
      • 6. Kennebunkport, Maine –
        • Price: 
        • On The Roll: 
        • The View: 
      • 5. Kennebunk, Maine – 
        • Price:
        • On The Roll: 
        • The View: 
      • 4. York, Maine –
        • Price: 
        • On The Roll: 
        • The View: 
      • 3. Portland, Maine –
      •  
        • Price: 
        • On The Roll:
        • The View: 
      • 2. Cape Elizabeth, Maine – 
        • In Fort Williams Park 
        • At Allagash Brewing Co 
        • The Commissary In Scarborough, Maine
        • On The Roll: 
        • The View: 
    • AND THE NUMBER 1:
      • 1. Acadia National Park – Southwest Harbor, Maine – 
        • Price: 
        • On The Roll: 
        • The View: 
    • Bonus:
      • For Something Completely Different Try –
        • HighRoller Lobster Co 
      • Like This Post? Pin It For Later!
Maine lobster fishing boat cruising through open ocean waters surrounded by swooping seagulls, with a tree-lined coastline in the background - captured by The Well Worn Shoes

What Makes A Great Maine Lobster Roll?

If you’ve ever spent any time in coastal New England, you’re probably aware that lobster reigns supreme. In both the industrial and culinary sense, Northeasterners make the most of these delectable crustaceans, but the absolute best way is the lobster roll.

Maine Style vs. Connecticut Style: What’s The Difference?

Before we dive into the rankings, let’s settle this once and for all:

Maine Style: Cold lobster meat, lightly dressed with mayo, sometimes chives, served on a toasted New England-style hot dog bun. The focus is on the fresh, sweet lobster flavor; the mayo is just a supporting character.

Connecticut Style: Warm lobster meat, drenched in hot drawn butter, served on a toasted bun. Richer, more indulgent, and absolutely delicious in its own right.

The Purist Approach: Some places serve the lobster plain with butter and mayo on the side, letting you decide. I respect this approach.

My preference? I like my rolls with really tender lobster, stuffed juuuust right, with mayo and chives, but occasionally with that local warm butter drizzle. There’s no wrong answer here (except skipping the lobster roll entirely, which IS wrong).

If you’ve ever spent any time in coastal New England, you are probably aware that lobster reigns supreme. In both the industrial and culinary sense, Northeasterners make the most of these delectable crustaceans, but in the absolute best way, the lobster roll.   

Maine lobstermen hauling traps on a working fishing boat off the coast of Cape Elizabeth, Maine, the real deal behind every lobster roll on your plate

A Brief History of the Lobster Roll

The lobster roll’s origin generally traces back to Maine, which makes sense; coastal areas arguably make the best lobster rolls. Many believe that lobster meat was served in butter on New England-style hot dog buns at various roadside stands beginning in the 1970s.

However, the first lobster roll was actually served in Connecticut around 1929 at a restaurant called Perry’s in Milford. Nowadays, nearly every seafood restaurant in New England serves its own interpretation of this classic. While there’s no single founder of this New England delicacy, it’s safe to say that a few restaurants caught on, and the love for this sandwich grew from there.

Lobster rolls are so popular in Maine during the summer that you can even find them on the menu at McDonald’s. (Although those lobster rolls definitely don’t make this list.)

The Top 12 Lobster Rolls In Maine

Let me preface this list by saying that ALL of these lobster rolls are amazing, and you really can’t go wrong getting any of them. This ranking is completely subjective, but I stand by it!


12. The Lobster Shack At Two Lights – Cape Elizabeth

  • Address: 225 Two Lights Rd, Cape Elizabeth, ME 04107
  • Price: Lobster Roll Boat – $26.99 | Lobster Roll A La Carte – $23.99
  • Season: Late March through late October
  • Full menu here

On The Roll: The Lobster Shack at Two Lights is such a great spot. While it’s not my absolute favorite lobster roll, it’s still pretty fantastic. This will probably be your favorite if you’re a purist. These classic Maine-style rolls have a heap of lobster served on a bed of lettuce in a toasted bun, with a large dollop of mayo on the side. They’re served with fries and coleslaw.

But The Lobster Shack also offers a great lobster dinner, and I took my Nanny (Grandma) once — she absolutely loved the Clam Cakes.

The View: The Lobster Shack at Two Lights has THE best views on this list. It’s right on the edge of the ocean, and there are picnic tables where you can feel ocean spray on your face as you enjoy your lobster roll. It’s such an amazing spot to sit and eat in the summer.


11. Red’s Eats – Wiscasset

Customers lining up outside Red's Eats, the famous lobster roll shack in Wiscasset, Maine, with its iconic red and white striped awning and American flag
  • Address: 41 Water St, Wiscasset, ME 04578
  • Price: Market Value (usually around $34-38)
  • Season: Late April through early October
  • Full menu here

On The Roll: This Wiscasset institution is celebrating over 85 years in business and is home to what many call THE reigning champ of lobster rolls. You may have seen Red’s Eats on The Zimmern List, and it’s been named Maine’s #1 Lobster Roll by Down East Magazine multiple times.

Two overflowing Maine lobster rolls and a basket of fries from Red's Eats in Wiscasset, Maine, wrapped in foil on a red tray with whole lobster claws piled on top

This is absolutely the most meaty and stuffed lobster roll I’ve ever had. I will say, because it’s SO stuffed with meat, it’s a little harder to eat than some of the other rolls on this list. Red’s roll is served with a side of Kate’s Maine Butter (a local, family-run business) or mayonnaise, your choice. I recommend the butter here. It’s delicious.

One thing is for certain: I have never found a more stuffed lobster roll in Maine! Red’s lives up to the hype, and I promise the long lines are worth it.

The View: There’s seating behind the lobster shack on the riverside overlooking the Sheepscot River. It’s definitely not a bad view, though the area has had some construction over the years.


10. Shannon’s Unshelled – Boothbay Harbor

  • Address: 23 Granary Way, Boothbay Harbor, ME 04538
  • Price: $26
  • Season: May through October
  • Full menu here

On The Roll: You’ll pass other lobster shacks on your way to Shannon’s Unshelled, but stay the course. This is the spot for a lobster roll that is well worth the money. Shannon’s has a casual atmosphere that fits the vibe of their lobster roll. You’ll find fresh Maine lobster meat stuffed to the max into a perfectly grilled roll, drizzled in sea-salted drawn butter. The salted butter is the perfect complement to the sweet lobster, and you’ll also get chips and fresh coleslaw.

The View: This cute little shack, with its picnic tables and big red umbrellas, is the perfect place to sit outside in the summer. Although it’s not the most scenic location on this list, it’s still such a great little spot!

You’ll pass other lobster shacks on your way to Shannon’s Unshelled, but stay the course. This is if you want a lobster roll that is well worth the money. Shannon’s is a casual atmosphere that fits the vibe of their lobster roll. You’ll find fresh Maine lobster meat stuffed to the max into a perfectly grilled roll, drizzled with sea-salted drawn butter. The salted butter is the perfect complement to the sweet lobster, and you’ll also get chips & fresh coleslaw. 


9. Rose Eden Lobster – Mt. Desert Island

  • Address: 864 ME-3, Bar Harbor, ME 04609
  • Price: Market Value (generally $28-34)
  • Season: May through October (seasonal)
  • Find them on Facebook

On The Roll: Rose Eden Lobster is a hidden gem that locals love, and now you’re in on the secret. They serve up excellent classic lobster rolls, but the real star here is their Cajun Lobster Roll. Yes, you read that right. Cajun. Lobster. Roll.

The Cajun roll features fresh Maine lobster with a spicy Cajun seasoning that adds a kick without overpowering the sweet lobster flavor. It’s unexpected, it’s delicious, and it’s something completely different from the traditional Maine style. If you’re feeling adventurous but still want that classic lobster roll experience, this is your spot.

A creamy cup of corn and clam chowder from Rose Eden Lobster Pound in Maine, served in a paper cup on a teal picnic table with a plastic spoon

Don’t miss out on their corn and crab chowder, it’s excellent! They also do a fantastic classic roll if you’re a traditionalist traveling with someone more daring (or vice versa).

The View: Rose Eden sits along Maine Route 3. While it isn’t the most scenic location, they make up for it with excellent food, a cute little setup with picnic tables away from the road.

kind of is.


8. The Ramp Bar & Grill – Kennebunkport

  • Address: 77 Pier Road, Kennebunkport, ME 04046
  • Price: $29
  • Season: Year-round (seasonal outdoor seating)
  • Full menu here

On The Roll: At The Ramp in Kennebunkport, you can find the Lobster Roll “Pier 77 Style.” You’ll get fresh, succulent lobster tossed in house-made mayonnaise, piled high on a perfectly toasted bun. The entire roll has a nice fresh taste! It comes with The Ramp’s housemade potato chips.

The View: The Ramp is located right under Pier 77 and offers a more casual dining experience than the upscale restaurant above. It feels like a local pub. The harbor views are gorgeous, and you’re right on the water’s edge.


7. The Clam Shack – Kennebunk

  • Address: 2 Western Ave, Kennebunk, ME 04043
  • Price: $24.95
  • Season: May through October
  • Full menu here

On The Roll: Chances are, if you’ve been to Kennebunk, you’ve heard of The Clam Shack! A Kennebunkport staple for over 55 years, this place is just classic coastal Maine in every way. The lobster roll here has been named “America’s Best Lobster Roll” by Food & Wine Magazine. Their roll is known for The Clam Shack’s no-frills approach. There’s a reason lobster rolls are a classic in Maine, and they celebrate that here.

This roll is incredibly fresh because it literally only has a 5-minute journey from the ocean to your plate! The lobsters are boiled in ocean water, a trade secret that enhances the sweetness of the already succulent lobster. The lobster is served in a fresh Maine bakery roll, and you get a choice of butter, mayo, or both. Don’t worry, they don’t judge what you want on your roll!

They also have freshly squeezed lemonade in the summer!

The View: The Clam Shack is perched on the Kennebunk River. The waterfront views and ocean breeze are the perfect backdrop for enjoying the classic coastal Maine lobster rolls here. Keeping with the classic vibes, all dishes are take-away, so you eat al fresco on wooden benches, lobster crates, or at picnic tables big enough for the whole family. If it sounds like the perfect summer spot, that’s because it is!

Kennebunkport, Maine

6. Bob’s Clam Hut – Kittery

  • Address: 315 US-1, Kittery, ME 03904
  • Price: Market Value (summer: $28-32) | Jumbo: Market Value (mid-$30s)
  • Season: Year-round
  • Full menu here

On The Roll: I had my very first lobster roll at Bob’s Clam Hut! This is where I fell in love with lobster rolls, and the obsession began. Ha! When people visited me in New England, I would always take them to Bob’s for their first lobster roll.

I recommend the jumbo, and trust me, you won’t regret it! The jumbo comes with either mayo or butter. If you want a more classic taste, I recommend the mayo. These babies are stuffed full of claw and tail meat. It comes with fries and a pickle, but I highly recommend swapping them for sweet potato fries.

The View: Admittedly, Bob’s Clam Hut doesn’t have the best view; it’s next to the Kittery Trading Post (which you should definitely check out on your visit!) and right off Route 1, the main artery through the area. But you’re not here for the view. You’re here for the lobster.


5. Charlotte’s Legendary Lobster Pound – Southwest Harbor

Fresh Maine lobster rolls wrapped in checkered paper at Charlotte's Legendary Lobster Pound, with the colorful red and white seafood shack visible in the background on a sunny day
  • Address: 465 Seawall Rd, Southwest Harbor, ME 04679
  • Price: Footlong – $42.95 | ¼ lb Roll – $23.95
  • Season: Memorial Day through mid-October (seasonal)
  • Full menu here

On The Roll: On my second visit to Charlotte’s, I was told that lobsters actually feel pain when stressed before they die, which makes the meat chewy. Charlotte’s has figured out how to humanely process their lobsters, and you can tell a HUGE difference. This roll has incredibly tender meat compared to many others I’ve tried; it’s honestly remarkable.

You can get these rolls two ways: with mayo or butter. Here, I highly suggest you try it with butter!

Make sure to get some blueberry ice cream for dessert. You’re welcome.

The View: It may not have the best coastal view, but Charlotte’s is on the quiet side of Mount Desert Island, and there’s way less traffic in Southwest Harbor than if you go to Bar Harbor. There are a few picnic tables outside where your furry friends can join you, and there’s a really pretty field right next to the picnic tables. It’s just a great little spot!

🐾 Dog-Friendly: Yes! Outdoor seating is dog-friendly.


4. Eventide Oyster Co. – Portland

  • Address: 86 Middle Street, Portland, ME 04101
  • Price: $21
  • Season: Year-round
  • Full menu here

On The Roll: Eventide Oyster Co. in Portland is known for its unique twist on this New England classic. They serve up small pieces of lobster on an Asian-inspired, sweet steamed bun (not your traditional split-top roll!) and top it off with sinfully delicious brown butter sauce. The brown butter, paired with chives and the warm lobster meat, is beyond fantastic.

This isn’t your grandma’s lobster roll, and that’s exactly the point. It’s been featured in Bon Appétit, Food & Wine, and just about every major food publication. If you want something different but still incredible, this is your spot.

The View: Portland is one of my favorite cities in New England. I love the old-school industrial feel of the city. But in terms of views, this isn’t the best you’ll get; it’s an indoor restaurant. Trust me, though, the lobster roll is worth a stop here.

3. The Bucking Lobster – Northeast Harbor

The Bucking Lobster food trailer in Northeast Harbor, Mount Desert Island, Maine - a red and white seafood shack on wheels with lobster buoys hanging from the counter under a brilliant blue sky
  • Location: Food truck, usually parked on Main Street in Northeast Harbor, ME
  • Price: Market Value (around $26-30)
  • Season: Late May through early October (seasonal)
  • Find them on Facebook

On The Roll: Okay, hear me out: Bánh Mì Lobster Roll. The Bucking Lobster is a food truck that’s usually parked in Northeast Harbor, and their Bánh Mì Lobster Roll is one of the most creative and delicious lobster rolls I’ve ever had. Fresh Maine lobster meets Vietnamese-inspired flavors with pickled vegetables, fresh herbs, a little heat, all tucked into a perfectly crusty roll. It sounds crazy. It works beautifully. The warm butter lobster roll is also excellent here!

The Banh Mi Lobster Roll at The Bucking Lobster in Northeast Harbor, Maine - fresh Maine lobster and shrimp topped with pickled cucumbers, carrots, and ridged potato chips on a toasted bun, served in red checkered paper

They also serve a more traditional Maine-style roll if you’re not feeling adventurous, but honestly? Go for the Bánh Mì. You can get a classic roll literally anywhere in Maine. You can only get THIS roll here.

The View: It’s a food truck, so you’re not getting oceanfront dining. But Northeast Harbor itself is charming, there are benches nearby, and you can wander down to the harbor to eat with a water view. Plus, you’re on the quiet side of MDI, away from the Bar Harbor crowds.

Note: Since it’s a food truck, location can vary – check their Facebook page for the current parking spot before making the trek!


2. Bite Into Maine – Cape Elizabeth / Portland

Portland Head Light lighthouse framed by blooming wild pink roses at Fort Williams Park in Cape Elizabeth, Maine, with the historic keeper's house and deep blue Atlantic Ocean in the background

Locations:

  • Fort Williams Park: 1000 Shore Road, Cape Elizabeth, ME 04107
  • Allagash Brewing Co: 50 Industrial Way, Portland, ME 04103
  • The Commissary (Takeout): 185 US Route One #2, Scarborough, ME 04074
  • Price: $28 | XL Roll +$8
  • Season: Fort Williams: May–October | Allagash: Year-round | Commissary: Year-round
  • Full menu here

On The Roll: I absolutely LOVE Bite Into Maine! My friend and I visited the location at Fort Williams Park in Cape Elizabeth, and trust me, this roll is worth the wait. And trust me, there will be a line. There is always a line. But it is SO worth it.

A creamy Maine lobster roll from Bite Into Maine topped with fresh chives, sitting on a red picnic table with Portland Head Light lighthouse visible in the background on a perfect sunny day

My favorite is the Maine Style roll, which is made in the classic Maine style with mayo and chives. These rolls are stuffed to the brim, and the chives just make them so fresh. One of my friends got the Connecticut Style, and that was also really good. Bite Into Maine also offers Chipotle, Curry, and Wasabi rolls if you’re a little more daring with your lobster rolls! Grab a blueberry soda to go with your lobster roll, and you’re all set.

The View: I highly recommend the Fort Williams Park location for its views. You’re right next to Portland Head Light, and you definitely don’t want to miss that on any trip to Portland/Cape Elizabeth. Find a picnic table in the park and enjoy your lobster roll with one of the most iconic lighthouses in America as your backdrop. It’s amazing.

your backdrop. It’s amazing.


AND THE TOP SPOT – A TIE!

I couldn’t choose between these two. They’re both perfect in completely different ways. So for the first time ever on this list, we have co-champions.


1. (TIE) McLoons Lobster Shack – Spruce Head

McLoon's Lobster Shack in Spruce Head, Maine — the iconic red building with hand-painted lobster sign, Adirondack chairs overlooking the harbor, and lobster boats floating in the calm water at golden hour
  • Address: 315 Island Rd, Spruce Head, ME 04858 Price:
  • Market Value (generally $32-36)
  • Season: Late May through mid-October
  • Full menu here

On The Roll: McLoons is hailed by many as THE best lobster roll in Maine, and after many visits, I completely understand why. It’s worth the drive to eat this yummy, tender claw and tail meat in a perfect grilled roll. You’ve got a choice of mayo or warm butter on your roll, and each lobster roll is served with chips, coleslaw, and a pickle.

McLoons is known for its purist approach to the classic lobster roll. You can actually TASTE the lobster here, it’s not drowning in mayo or butter. Many say these rolls are the perfect combo of fresh lobster and tangy mayo, and I couldn’t agree more. The lobster is so fresh, so tender, and prepared with such care.

This is the lobster roll that all other lobster rolls should aspire to be. Keep in mind that you will probably wait in an incredibly long line here, BUT trust me, it’s worth the wait!

Golden hour sunset view from McLoon's Lobster Shack in Spruce Head, Maine - lobster boats moored in a calm harbor with a weathered wooden dock, rocky shoreline, and a stunning blue-to-orange sky

The View: One of the best views on this list! McLoons has absolutely beautiful coastal views. You can enjoy your lobster roll while looking out over the sea at the nearby islands. It’s an idyllic spot perched right over the harbor, and it doesn’t get much better than that while eating fresh seafood. Seriously, if I could only eat one more lobster roll in Maine, the view alone might make me choose McLoons.


1. (TIE) Bar Harbor Lobster Pound – Bar Harbor

Close-up of the stenciled Bar Harbor Lobster Pound logo painted on weathered red wood planks, with a single fallen yellow maple leaf resting inside the circle
  • Address: 414 ME-3, Bar Harbor, ME 04609
  • Price: Market Value (generally $30-36)
  • Season: Late May through mid-October (seasonal)
  • See full menu here

On The Roll: Bar Harbor Lobster Pound doesn’t mess around. This is a working lobster pound, which means the lobster couldn’t be fresher. Their house lobster roll was by far my favorite roll of the summer of 2025 when we lived on Mt. Desert Island for 6 months. These lobster rolls are done to absolute perfection. Tender, sweet claw and tail meat, lightly dressed, on a perfectly grilled and buttered roll. Just an exceptionally executed classic. The lobster here is so fresh and so perfectly prepared that it reminds you why this simple sandwich became iconic in the first place.

You can also get a full lobster dinner here, steamed clams, mussels – the works. But the lobster roll is why you came, and it won’t disappoint. If you’re feeling something different, try the lobster tacos or lobster nachos; both are excellent! Expect long lines, but again, it’s SO worth it!

Loaded lobster tacos from Bar Harbor Lobster Pound in Maine - crispy tortillas piled with fresh Maine lobster, mango pico de gallo, shredded purple cabbage, and a creamy chipotle drizzle, served with fresh lime

The View: You’ll notice Bar Harbor Lobster Pound on your drive into Bar Harbor. I can’t think of a better way to describe it than SO CUTE! They have an Ice Cream boat (ice cream compliments of Udder Heaven), and they’ve got picnic tables, string lights, corn hole, fire tables – the works! They did such a great job making a cozy spot that is the perfect place to hang out on a Maine summer night.

🐾 Dog-Friendly: Yes! The outdoor picnic area is dog-friendly, so the pups can join you.

you.


Bonus: For Something Completely Different

HighRoller Lobster Co. – Portland

A creative Maine lobster roll from The Highroller Lobster Co. in Portland, Maine - fresh lobster meat and creamy sauce piled on a giant crispy chip shell, served in red checkered paper with the Highroller branded flag pick
  • Address: 104 Exchange Street, Portland, ME 04101
  • Price: $24-$28
  • Season: Year-Round
  • Full menu here

If you’re looking for something different, you’ve GOTTA check out HighRoller Lobster Co. I highly recommend the Lobster Cheese Crisp Tacos here! Yep, you guessed it — this is lobster inside of a taco shell made of CHEESE. And yes, it’s as good as it sounds! The fries are also excellent.

HighRoller also does creative lobster rolls, lobster grilled cheese, and lobster mac and cheese. It’s lobster every which way, and they do it all really well.


Panoramic view of Rockport Harbor in mid-coast Maine, framed by wild summer flowers and rocky shoreline, with sailboats moored at the marina under a brilliant blue sky

Maine Lobster Roll Tips

Where to find them: The best lobster rolls are scattered all along the Maine coast, from Kittery at the southern border up to Bar Harbor and Mount Desert Island near Acadia. This list covers spots in Portland, Kennebunkport, Wiscasset, Boothbay Harbor, the Midcoast region, and the Acadia area, so you’ll find great options no matter where your Maine adventure takes you.

Best time to visit: Lobster prices are typically lowest in late spring (May-June) and fall (September-October). Summer is peak season, expect higher prices and longer lines.

Plan for seasonality: Most lobster shacks in Maine operate seasonally, roughly May through October. This is especially true in the Bar Harbor and Acadia area, where nearly everything shuts down for winter. If you’re visiting in the shoulder season, always call ahead or check social media to confirm a spot is open before making the drive.

Classic vs. Connecticut: When in doubt, try the Maine style (cold with mayo) for your first roll at any spot. You can always come back for the butter version!

Skip the chains: McDonald’s serves lobster rolls in Maine during the summer. Please don’t. You’re in MAINE. Go to a shack.

Embrace the line: If there’s a line, it’s usually a good sign. Bring patience and an appetite.

Cash is king: Some smaller shacks and food trucks are cash-only. Bring some just in case.


A peek-through view of the Maine coastline framed by sprawling tree branches and lush green coastal shrubs, with a rocky shoreline, deep blue Atlantic Ocean, and a distant forested island under a partly cloudy sky

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best lobster roll in Maine? McLoons Lobster Shack in Spruce Head and Bar Harbor Lobster Pound near Acadia are tied for my #1 spot. McLoons for the purist perfection and stunning Midcoast views; Bar Harbor Lobster Pound for the freshest-possible lobster right on Frenchman Bay.

Maine style or Connecticut style — which is better? It’s completely personal preference! Maine style (cold with mayo) highlights the fresh, sweet lobster flavor. Connecticut style (warm with butter) is richer and more indulgent. Try both and decide for yourself!

How much does a lobster roll cost in Maine? Prices vary by season and market conditions, but expect to pay $24- $38 for a good lobster roll in 2026. Some places offer smaller rolls for less, or jumbo rolls for more. Red’s Eats in Wiscasset tends to be pricier but serves the most stuffed roll you’ll find.

Where can I get a lobster roll near Acadia National Park? Bar Harbor Lobster Pound, Rose Eden Lobster, Charlotte’s Legendary Lobster Pound in Southwest Harbor, and The Bucking Lobster food truck in Northeast Harbor are all excellent options near Acadia. Important: Most lobster shacks in the Bar Harbor and Mount Desert Island area are seasonal, typically operating from late May through mid-October. Always check hours before making the drive!

Where can I get a lobster roll in Portland, Maine? Eventide Oyster Co. serves a famous brown-butter lobster roll on an Asian-style bun. Bite Into Maine has a location at Allagash Brewing, and HighRoller Lobster Co. offers creative takes, including lobster tacos.

What’s the best lobster roll in Kennebunkport? The Clam Shack in Kennebunk has been named “America’s Best Lobster Roll” by Food & Wine. The Ramp at Pier 77 in Kennebunkport is also excellent, with great harbor views.

When is the best time to get lobster rolls in Maine? Most lobster shacks are open May through October. Late spring and early fall offer the best combination of lower prices and shorter lines.

Are any lobster shacks dog-friendly? Yes! Many outdoor lobster shacks allow dogs at their picnic tables, including Charlotte’s, Bar Harbor Lobster Pound, and McLoons. Always check ahead to confirm.


As I mentioned before, you can’t go wrong when getting any of these rolls; this list is completely subjective. I prefer my rolls with really tender lobster, stuffed juuuust right, with mayo and chives, but occasionally with that local warm butter drizzle. There’s a roll for everyone on this list, whether you prefer the classic approach or an unexpected twist like Eventide’s brown butter or The Bucking Lobster’s Bánh Mì.

One thing is for certain: if you go to Maine, you’ve GOTTA try at least one lobster roll!

Or you can be like me and eat as many as possible on each trip to Maine. No judgment here. 🦞


Like This Post? Pin It For Later!

Have a favorite Maine lobster roll I missed? Drop it in the comments, I’m always looking for my next lobster roll obsession!

Posted In: New England, Sips & Eats Guides, Travel Guides · Tagged: Coastal Maine, Lobster, Lobster Rolls, Maine, New England, United States

Get on the List

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

Hi! I'm Vanessa, a 30 something, sunset chasing traveler. I'm here to inspire you to travel wherever, whenever, and with whoever you can. My Huskies, Loki and Freya are usually along for the ride. I have a soul that likes to wander, a desire to experience the unknown, and a curiousity to discover things off the beaten path. I hope you'll stick around for awhile!

Join the List

Let's be friends! I know e-mails can suck but mine won't and I promise cute pup photos too!

Connect

Recent Posts

  • The Complete Guide to Schoodic Peninsula in Acadia National Park
  • The Foodie’s Guide to Bar Harbor, Maine
  • Phoenix To Grand Canyon: The Ultimate Winter Road Trip Guide
  • 15 Best Dog Friendly Hikes at Acadia National Park
  • The 18 Best Things to Do in Bar Harbor, Maine

Categories

  • Destinations
  • Tips & Tricks
  • History
  • Adventure
  • National Park Love

Reader Favorites

6 Best Dog-Friendly National Parks to Visit This Winter

Top 15 U.S. Destinations For 2022

Iced coffee from Coffee Hound at The Stadium enjoyed at Agamont Park in Bar Harbor, Maine — a Stadium Bar Harbor branded iced coffee cup held up with Frenchman Bay, the Porcupine Islands, and anchored boats on a clear sunny day, highlighting Coffee Hound as one of the best coffee shops in Bar Harbor and Agamont Park as a scenic waterfront spot for eating and relaxing near Acadia National Park on Mount Desert Island, Maine

The Foodie’s Guide to Bar Harbor, Maine

On the Blog

  • Destinations
  • Tips & Tricks
  • History
  • Adventure
  • National Park Love

Join the List

The Well Worn Shoes is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.

Connect

traded conventional lifestyle for a trail map. thr traded conventional lifestyle for a trail map. thriving. 😂🏔️

.
#fulltimerv #rvlife #mountainlife #millenniallife #wellwornshoes
different looked like this. no regrets. 🏔️ . #ful different looked like this. no regrets. 🏔️

.
#fulltimerv #mountainlife #slowliving #rvlife #wellwornshoes
hot take: the burnout era was actually just a redi hot take: the burnout era was actually just a redirection 🏔️ traded a conventional life for dirt roads and it’s giving everything i didn’t know i needed.
The kind of light that makes you forget what you w The kind of light that makes you forget what you were worried about. The kind of lake that makes you want to stay just a little longer.

Greers Ferry Lake, Arkansas ✨
POV: front windows down, dogs (mostly Loki) losing POV: front windows down, dogs (mostly Loki) losing their minds, bison blocking the road, sky on fire.

Lamar Valley, you win. Every single time. 🔥

🛑🚫 If you are driving through Lamar Valley with dogs please don’t give them any access (back windows fully down) where they can get out of your car. Turns our bison don’t like to be chased by dogs 🤷🏻‍♀️🛑🚫
Follow on Instagram

Copyright © 2026 The Well Worn Shoes · Theme by 17th Avenue