Maine and lobster rolls go hand in hand. Nothing says summer quite like eating one by the coast, the salty breeze in the air.
Whether you crave yours warm with butter or cool and creamy with mayo, Maine has the perfect roll for every taste.
These twenty spots are known for doing it right—with fresh-caught lobster, classic buns, and just the right amount of magic.
1. Red’s Eats (Wiscasset)
This tiny shack has earned legendary status, and the lines prove it. Red’s piles entire lobsters—claws, tails, and knuckles—into a toasted split-top bun.
No filler, just meat, and a choice of butter or mayo on the side. It’s over-the-top and unforgettable, the lobster roll of dreams.
2. Eventide Oyster Co. (Portland)
Here, tradition meets creativity with a brown-butter lobster roll served on a steamed bao-style bun. The lobster is warm, silky, and rich.
Each bite melts into the next, balanced with citrus and umami. A bold twist that still respects its coastal roots.
3. The Clam Shack (Kennebunkport)
Served on a round hamburger bun, this roll breaks the rules but wins hearts. Lobster meat is tender and slightly chilled.
Choose butter, mayo, or both—they’re painted right onto the meat. It’s messy in the best way and deeply satisfying.
4. McLoons Lobster Shack (South Thomaston)
Set right on the water, this shack keeps things simple and scenic. The lobster roll here comes heaped with sweet meat and barely any dressing.
The view of the working harbor completes the picture. Every bite tastes like vacation.
5. Bite Into Maine (Cape Elizabeth & Food Truck Locations)
This standout lets you customize with regional styles—Connecticut buttered, Maine mayo, or spiced up with wasabi or chipotle.
The rolls are stuffed and balanced, never soggy or skimpy. It’s a choose-your-own-adventure for lobster lovers.
6. Five Islands Lobster Co. (Georgetown)
Nestled at the edge of the Sheepscot River, this spot serves lobster so fresh it tastes like the sea. Rolls come chilled or warm.
Enjoy them at a picnic table overlooking the harbor, watching boats glide by. Pure, scenic Maine in every bite.
7. The Lobster Shack At Two Lights (Cape Elizabeth)
Perched above the rocky coast, this old-school shack serves its rolls with a side of ocean spray. The meat is fresh, the roll is soft, and the breeze is cool.
You can hear the waves crash as you eat. It’s a full sensory experience you won’t forget.
8. Beal’s Lobster Pier (Southwest Harbor)
Lobster comes right from the tanks to your toasted bun, tossed gently in butter or mayo. Each bite tastes incredibly fresh and clean.
It’s casual, classic, and just steps from the water. Go for the view, stay for the roll.
9. Bob’s Clam Hut (Kittery)
Bob’s serves a sturdy roll packed with lobster meat and a nostalgic dose of fried clam shack charm. The meat leans chilled and creamy.
The fast-casual vibe keeps things moving. A perfect roadside stop that delivers big on flavor.
10. Harraseeket Lunch And Lobster (Freeport)
This waterfront shack has been a local staple for decades. Lobster rolls here are generously filled and served with a sea breeze.
It’s low-key, no-frills, and full of flavor. Watching the tide while you eat is a bonus.
11. Thurston’s Lobster Pound (Bernard)
Overlooking Bass Harbor, Thurston’s offers a soft, buttery roll loaded with claw and tail meat. The flavor is clean and lightly briny.
It’s served with a view of working lobster boats. Classic Maine, start to finish.
12. Shaw’s Fish & Lobster Wharf (New Harbor)
Tucked into a small fishing village, Shaw’s delivers ultra-fresh rolls on warm, grilled buns. The lobster is lightly dressed and never overworked.
You can see the traps pulled in while you eat. It’s quiet, local, and truly charming.
13. Luke’s Lobster (Portland Pier)
Luke’s keeps things chilled and clean, with a perfect balance of mayo, lemon, and herbs. The roll is lightly toasted and tightly packed.
This fast-growing favorite began in Maine and stays true to its roots. A modern classic with soul.
14. Highroller Lobster Co. (Portland)
Highroller offers lobster rolls with flair—think lime mayo, jalapeño, or charred pineapple options. The bread is buttery and grilled.
It’s bold, a little wild, and made for flavor seekers. Definitely not your grandma’s lobster roll.
15. Quoddy Bay Lobster (Eastport)
Way up in Eastport, this dockside gem dishes out lobster so fresh it might still be moving. Rolls are piled high and simply dressed.
You’re as far east as you can go in the U.S.—and it tastes like it. Remote, rugged, and delicious.
16. The Lobster Shack (Ogunquit)
Set near Perkins Cove, this cozy shack serves a no-nonsense roll that’s all about the meat. It’s chilled, well-balanced, and unfussy.
Add a side of chowder and watch the tides shift. It’s coastal comfort at its best.
17. Waterman’s Beach Lobster (South Thomaston)
This small, family-run spot pairs its meaty rolls with sweeping ocean views. The lobster is sweet, tender, and lightly buttered.
Enjoy it on a picnic bench near the bluff. It feels like a secret you’re lucky to know.
18. Day’s Crabmeat And Lobster (Yarmouth)
This roadside shack turns out rolls that are stuffed, classic, and consistently delicious. The meat is fresh and minimally dressed.
You’ll find yourself pulling over for another. It’s everything a lobster roll should be.
19. Young’s Lobster Pound (Belfast)
Right on the Penobscot Bay, Young’s is a casual place with serious seafood. Their lobster roll is hefty, clean, and lightly seasoned.
Grab a roll, climb the stairs, and eat on the deck. The water view makes it taste even better.
20. C-Ray Lobster (Bar Harbor)
Tucked away from Bar Harbor’s busy center, C-Ray dishes out buttery, overstuffed lobster rolls with zero fuss. The lobster is warm and plentiful.
It’s served on paper plates in a gravel lot—and it might be the best bite you get all trip.