In Maine, two there are two universal questions: how much snow did you get? And, where do you get the best lobster rolls? Since winter feels like a distant memory, let’s focus on the latter. Maine is synonymous for top notch lobster rolls. Our restaurants, from upscale brick and mortar businesses to small seaside shacks, have perfected its preparation. Below we list the best Maine lobster rolls you should try this summer.
Natalie’s Restaurant
Enjoy a decadent dining experience with breathtaking views of surrounding Camden Harbor and hills. Natalie’s is an award winning restaurant featuring modern fine dining combined with Maine’s fresh bounty. Natalie’s offers an upscale, deconstructed lobster roll prepared by previous Maine Lobster Chef of the Year, Chris Long. 83 Bay View St., Camden, ME, (207) 236-7008
Red’s Eats
If you have ever driven up Route 1 through Wiscasset, chances are you have seen Red’s. It’s the small red and white shack with the consistent, endless lines. Be warned, you will have to wait a little while to devour your lobster roll, but devour it you will. The quality of the lobster meat is only matched by its abundance, so bring your A game appetite. Red’s lobster roll comes unadorned, so the lobster retains its fresh flavor. The buns are tender, buttery, and perfectly griddled. 16 Water St., Wiscasset, ME, (207) 882-6128
Eventide Oyster
Located in the heart of Portland’s old port, Eventide’s lobster roll wins the award most creative roll. Starting with the bun, Eventide uses a homemade, steamed version, straying from the buttered, toasted hot dog buns. The buns make for the perfect vessel, warm and soft, but strong and sturdy. Eventide serves their lobster rolls with a choice of house-made brown butter vinaigrette, house mayo, or hollandaise. We suggest the brown butter route, which is mixed in with a splash of lemon juice and salt. 86 Middle St., Portland, ME, (207) 774-8538
The Clam Shack
Sitting on the bridge over the Kennebunk River, the Clam Shack provides a classic Maine summer time visual welcome to patrons. The tiny fish shack serves award winning fried food, (the fried clams are a must) along with a lobster roll that will leave you spinning. Served on freshly baked buns from a local bakery with a dab of mayo and a slice of lemon, the rolls taste just like summer in Maine. 2 Western Ave., Kennebunk, ME, (207) 967-3321
Quoddy Bay Lobster
Quoddy Bay Lobster is a charming, authentic lobster shack located in beautiful Downeast Maine. Don’t blink or you might miss it, situated at the end of a dirt road which is literally called Sea Street. Orders are placed at a take-out window and most of the seating is outside on picnic tables overlooking the ocean. The lobster roll is served classic Maine style and comes garnished with a full lobster claw. 7 Sea St., Eastport, ME, (207) 853-6640