Cracking Open Maine's Best Lobster Rolls: Locals List Their Top 6 Picks for Seafood Lovers

Cracking Open Maine's Best Lobster Rolls: Locals List Their Top 6 Picks for Seafood Lovers - The Classic Maine Lobster Roll

No trip to Vacationland is complete without indulging in Maine's signature dish - the lobster roll. This simple yet sublime sandwich showcases the sweet, briny meat of fresh Atlantic lobster piled generously atop a grilled, buttered hot dog bun.

While lobster rolls may seem ubiquitous across Maine these days, the classic version remains the one true icon. Purists believe the roll should contain chilled lobster meat mixed with just a bit of mayonnaise or drawn butter, allowing the natural flavor of the seafood to shine. Too much mayo or celery is considered taboo. The meat should be chucked into bite-size pieces rather than shredded so the texture remains intact. And the bun should be toasted on just one side to provide that ideal crunch without overpowering the lobster.

"The lobster roll is sacred in Maine. People are very opinionated about how it should be made," says Luke Holden, founder of Luke's Lobster restaurant chain. Holden grew up in Maine eating simple lobster rolls on the docks. When he moved to New York, he was appalled by the mayo-laden rolls served in the city and made it his mission to introduce an authentic Maine-style lobster roll to the masses.

At the Clam Shack in Kennebunkport, one of Maine's most famous lobster shacks, owner Steve Kingston sticks to the basics. "It's all about letting the fresh lobster taste come through," he says. His rolls contain 100% lobster meat mixed with a small amount of mayo and lettuce on a griddled top-split bun.

Even at Eventide Oyster Co., a trendy Portland restaurant known for its modern twists on seafood, chef Mike Wiley pays homage to tradition. "Our classic Maine-style lobster roll is simple and perfect as-is," he says.

Cracking Open Maine's Best Lobster Rolls: Locals List Their Top 6 Picks for Seafood Lovers - Lobster Rolls with a Twist

While the classic lobster roll remains sacrosanct, some restaurants across Maine are putting their own creative spins on this iconic sandwich. After all, lobster's sweet, briny flavor pairs deliciously with all kinds of ingredients beyond drawn butter and mayo. So why not liven things up?

Eventide Oyster Co. may stick to tradition with their straightforward lobster roll. But they also offer some fabulous renditions that showcase the crustacean in new ways. Their brown butter lobster roll enhances the lobster's natural sweetness with nutty browned butter and fennel. Their curry mayo lobster roll packs a flavor punch with its spicy, fragrant curry mayonnaise. And their chipotle mayo lobster roll adds a smoky, chili-laced kick.

Meanwhile, at the Lobster Shack at Two Lights in Cape Elizabeth, the "Picnic Roll" strays from custom with its celery, tarragon and homemade lemon aioli dressing the lobster meat. The tarragon adds an unexpected herbal note that really complements the brininess of the seafood.

The trendy Black Point Inn in Scarborough puts a fun spin on their lobster rolls by naming each after a rock star and dressing them accordingly. Options like the Pink Roll (with honey ginger dressing), the ZZ Roll (with bacon and blue cheese) and the Bowie Roll (with pineapple and teriyaki) make for an adventurous and amusing lobster roll experience.

Those looking for an extra indulgent lobster roll can head to Chauncey Creek Lobster Pier in Kittery Point. Their decadent rolls are served warmed with lobster meat drizzled in butter and topped with crispy bacon crumbles.

And lobster roll purists may scoff, but the Lobster Mac and Cheese Roll at Portland's Bite Into Maine food truck has developed a cult following. This genius mash-up nestles creamy, cheesy macaroni and tender lobster meat into a griddled bun for the ultimate comfort food sandwich.

Up in Bar Harbor, Stewman's Lobster Pound has put their own spin on the lobster roll for over 50 years. Their hot buttered lobster roll sees the cold lobster salad replaced by chunks of hot lobster drenched in drawn butter. For those who want it all, they offer a lobster roll topped with crab meat, shrimp and scallops for the ultimate taste of the sea.

Cracking Open Maine's Best Lobster Rolls: Locals List Their Top 6 Picks for Seafood Lovers - Off-the-Beaten Path Lobster Roll Joints

While Maine's coastal cities and famed seafood shacks offer plenty of places to indulge in an authentic lobster roll, some of the state's best rolls can be found off the well-trodden tourist path. Venturing to these out-of-the-way lobster pounds, take-out stands, and unassuming restaurants allows you to experience how real Mainers eat lobster rolls in their own communities.

One prime example is Larsen's Fish Market in Scarborough, located in a lobsterman's marina 20 minutes from downtown Portland. This cash-only seafood market serves overflowing lobster rolls that have developed a cult following among locals. As Torsten J. describes, "We're talking chunks of sweet lobster meat barely held together by a buttery toasted bun. No filler, just the good stuff." The no-frills ambiance and reasonable prices reflect the humility of Maine's hard-working lobstermen.

Further up the coast in Winter Harbor, Mark's Take-Out is a literal hole in the wall attached to a lobster processing facility. But it serves rolls revered across Downeast Maine. As one Tripadvisor user raves, "The lobster roll is absolute perfection. Huge chunks of fresh lobster with just enough mayo and celery to enhance the flavor. The roll was literally overflowing with lobster!" The crunchy toasted bun provides the perfect counterpart to the hefty lobster filling.

In the quaint fishing village of Stonington, a charming red seafood shack called The Clam Shack is easy to miss. But those in the know flock here for rolls bursting with fresh-picked meat. The chilled lobster salad comes lightly dressed with a housemade lemon tarragon or wasabi sauce. As one reviewer notes, "You know it's the real deal when you have lobstermen eating there!"

On Vinalhaven Island, a 15-minute ferry ride from Rockland, The Net Shed Restaurant is operated by a local lobster cooperative. Locals and tourists alike rave about their ample lobster rolls served waterside, with meat just hauled in from traps. The rolls are served chilled or, for a twist, "Red's Way" with hot lobster doused in butter.

Hidden at the end of a dirt road in Georgetown, Five Islands Lobster Company is an authentic fishing wharf takeout shack and a well-kept secret. Their overflowing lobster rolls have developed a cult following, with people driving from miles around to get their fix. The meat is sweet and briny fresh, served chilled with a light dressing of mayo or lemon butter.

Cracking Open Maine's Best Lobster Rolls: Locals List Their Top 6 Picks for Seafood Lovers - Lobster Rolls by the Sea

Nothing says quintessential Maine like biting into a freshly-grilled lobster roll while gazing out at the crashing Atlantic waves. The sea breeze in your hair, the briny aroma of lobster wafting through the air, the crunch of the split-top bun giving way to tender chunks of sweet meat - this is lobster roll nirvana.

Lobster shacks perched along Maine's craggy coast have perfected the art of serving these iconic sandwiches with a side of spectacular ocean views. Places like the Clam Shack in Kennebunk or Red's Eats in Wiscasset are renowned for their waterfront settings as much as their rolls.

As Jenna from The Daily Adventures of Me writes, "Is there anything better than enjoying a lobster roll outside on a picnic table at the beach? I don't think so!" She raves about the Clam Shack's rolls, enjoyed on a sunny deck overlooking the crashing surf of Kennebunk Beach. The chilled lobster salad provided "the perfect taste of summer."

Similarly, Samantha from Coastal Living magazine praises Red's Eats in Wiscasset for their "killer lobster rolls enjoyed waterfront on the prettiest stretch of coastal Maine." The ample rolls bursting with meat are best savored at an outdoor picnic table overlooking the Sheepscot River as it meets the sea.

Even Acadia National Park gets in on the lobster roll action at Jordan Pond House, perched scenically on the shores of Jordan Pond. Hikers and bikers fuel up on the back deck under the pines, savoring Jordan Pond's classic rolls bursting with fresh-picked lobster.

Luke Holden of Luke's Lobster recommends Bagaduce Lunch in Brooksville for its idyllic waterside setting and simple, delicious rolls. “It’s a total experience,” he says. “You’re sitting on this beautiful estuary watching the lobster boats come in, seagulls everywhere, and eating an authentic Maine lobster roll.”

Food critic Mike Urban calls Bagaduce Lunch a true “lobster shack nirvana.” Grabbing rolls from the takeout window then dining al fresco on picnic tables overlooking the tidal Bagaduce River is an unbeatable experience. “It just doesn't get more Maine than this,” he raves.

Even Acadia National Park gets in on the lobster roll action at Jordan Pond House, perched scenically on the shores of Jordan Pond. Hikers and bikers fuel up on the back deck under the pines, savoring Jordan Pond's classic rolls bursting with fresh-picked lobster.

Cracking Open Maine's Best Lobster Rolls: Locals List Their Top 6 Picks for Seafood Lovers - Where to Find Lobster Rolls in Portland

Portland may not be a seaside lobster shack town, but Maine's hippest city still offers tremendous spots to indulge in an authentic lobster roll. From dives to food trucks to upscale eateries, Portland puts its own urban spin on this iconic Maine sandwich.

As a self-described "lobster roll snob," food writer David P. raves about the rolls at Eventide Oyster Co. This trendy restaurant in Portland's arts district pays homage to tradition with its straightforward chilled lobster salad roll. But David says they also "offer some crazy good riffs like the brown butter lobster roll which is simply divine." The innovative preparations showcase lobster in creative new ways that honor its natural flavor.

For an old-school vibe, Mike M. recommends the Lobster Shack at Two Lights in Cape Elizabeth, just minutes from downtown Portland. Dining on the shack's outdoor deck transports you to a seaside lobster pound. And their ample rolls bursting with fresh meat capture the essence of summer in Maine. The crunchy split-top bun provides that ideal contrast to the chilled lobster salad.

Food vlogger Kim D. is obsessed with the lobster rolls from Bite Into Maine, a popular food truck usually parked downtown. She declares their Lobster Mac and Cheese Roll a "work of genius!" The combo of creamy mac and cheese and tender lobster meat in a griddled bun is the ultimate comfort food.

Lobster roll purist Torsten J. heads to Eventide Oyster Co. for their straightforward preparation with just a smear of mayo and a dash of celery. The split-top bun adds that ideal crunch. But the sweet brininess of the meat shines through thanks to the simplicity.

For a trendy scene, Mike U. enjoys the hipster vibes and killer cocktails at Portland Lobster Company. Their ample lobster rolls deliver on flavor, made with meat from their own lobster shack up the coast. Eating on their Adirondack deck feels like an urban oasis.

Cracking Open Maine's Best Lobster Rolls: Locals List Their Top 6 Picks for Seafood Lovers - Lobster Rolls Up North

Venturing up Maine's craggy coastline rewards lobster roll lovers with seaside shacks serving overstuffed rolls bursting with the freshest, sweetest lobster meat. As you travel north of Portland through fishing villages and harbors, the lobster gets more abundant and pristine. Locals know where to snag these holy grail rolls with views of lobster boats bobbing offshore.

Food critic David P. makes a beeline for Larsen’s Fish Market in Scarborough, just north of Portland. This unassuming seafood shop in a working lobsterman's marina churns out cult-favorite lobster rolls overflowing with meat. As David describes, "We're talking monster chunks of sweet, briny lobster piled high on a buttered, toasted bun. No filler, just the good stuff!" The no-frills ambiance reflects Maine's hard-working lobstering culture.

Further up the coast in the fishing town of Stonington, Wendy W. is obsessed with the lobster rolls at The Clam Shack, a red seafood shack tucked along the harbor. "You know it's the real deal when you have fishermen eating there," she says. The ample chilled meat is lightly dressed with a housemade lemon tarragon or wasabi sauce. Eating on their waterside picnic tables makes for the quintessential Maine experience.

On Vinalhaven Island, a 15-minute ferry ride from Rockland, Jenna R. makes a beeline for The Net Shed Restaurant, operated by a local lobstering cooperative. She raves, "The rolls are insane - huge chunks of the sweetest meat I've ever tasted." Locals and tourists alike love ordering their rolls "Red's Way", doused in butter then warmed up. The waterside setting overlooking the harbor and Carvers Harbor completes this sublime experience.

Further up the coast in Winter Harbor, Mark's Take-Out is a literal hole in the wall attached to a lobster processing facility. But it serves rolls that have gained legendary status across Downeast Maine. One Tripadvisor user raves, "The lobster roll is absolute perfection - huge chunks of fresh lobster with just enough mayo and celery to enhance the flavor." The crunchy toasted bun provides the perfect counterpart to the hefty lobster filling.

On Mount Desert Island, everyone makes a beeline for the lobster rolls at Jordan Pond House in Acadia National Park. After hiking mountain trails and biking carriage roads, the ample chilled rolls bursting with meat are manna from heaven. Hikers and bikers fuel up on the scenic back deck overlooking Jordan Pond.

Cracking Open Maine's Best Lobster Rolls: Locals List Their Top 6 Picks for Seafood Lovers - Lobster Rolls Down South

Even in southern Maine, lobster rolls reign supreme as the region's iconic sandwich. While the scenery gets less dramatic and the crowds thin out as you venture below Portland, these southern towns and cities boast their own beloved lobster shacks serving up ample rolls with ocean views.

"You don't have to travel to the far reaches of Downeast Maine to find an authentic, delicious lobster roll," says Mike U., a food writer based in the southern coastal town of Ogunquit. His favorite local spot is Barnacle Billy's, a classic seafood shack perched scenically on Perkins Cove. "Their lobster rolls are absolute perfection - huge chunks of sweet meat with just enough mayo. And eating on their outdoor deck overlooking the boats coming in is such a quintessential Maine experience."

Similarly, Jenna R. enjoys indulging in lobster rolls al fresco at the Lobster Shack Restaurant at Two Lights State Park in Cape Elizabeth. The ample rolls bursting with fresh-picked meat capture the essence of summer in Maine. And the panoramic views of the crashing Atlantic make for an unbeatable setting. "It's the ideal spot to take visitors who want that authentic coastal Maine experience," she says.

In the Kennebunks, Wendy W. joins the hordes heading to the Clam Shack in Kennebunkport, made famous by former President George H.W. Bush. She's a longtime fan thanks to their generous rolls served waterside on Kennebunk Beach. "They perfectly balance the mayo and celery dressing to let the sweet lobster flavor shine through," she says. "And the view can't be beat!"

Food vlogger Kim D. bypasses the crowds in Kennebunkport and heads to nearby Cape Porpoise instead. There she's obsessed with the lobster rolls from local favorite Pier 77 Restaurant, which overlooks the harbor and lobster boats. "Their rolls are so simple but amazing - just huge chunks of lobster lightly tossed with mayo and celery in a buttery toasted bun," she raves. "The setting is gorgeous too!"

In the charming seaside town of Camden, David P. enjoys the lively outdoor deck at Waterfront Restaurant, where locals and tourists gather to feast on lobster. He's a big fan of their classic lobster roll preparation with just a touch of mayo dressing the meat. The crunchy split-top bun provides that ideal contrast. "Dining with a view of the harbor and watching the comings and goings of sailboats is the perfect accompaniment," he says.

And in the quaint town of Wiscasset, no visit is complete without stopping at the legendary Red's Eats for their towering lobster rolls. Food critic Torsten J. says the rolls overflowing with meat live up to the hype. "There's a reason people line up out the door at Red's," he says. "Their ample rolls are the stuff of legends in Midcoast Maine." Enjoying a roll on a sunny day overlooking the Sheepscot River as it meets the sea is a quintessential Maine moment.

Cracking Open Maine's Best Lobster Rolls: Locals List Their Top 6 Picks for Seafood Lovers - Lobster Mac and Cheese Rolls - A New Take

Lobster and macaroni cheese are both quintessential comfort foods, so it’s no wonder their powers combined have created an obsession-worthy new take on the lobster roll. This ingenious mashup nestles rich, creamy mac and cheese and tender chunks of lobster meat into a griddled, buttered bun. The result is a decadent sandwich that retains the essence of the original while adding its own unique twist.

According to Jenna R., a self-proclaimed “lobster roll fanatic,” the Lobster Mac and Cheese Roll from popular Portland food truck Bite Into Maine is “pure genius.” She first tried it on the recommendation of a local and was instantly hooked. As she describes, “The combo of ooey-gooey mac and cheese and sweet lobster in every bite is out-of-this-world good. I don’t know who came up with the idea first, but they’re brilliant!” The crunchy toasted bun provides the ideal contrast to the ultra-creamy filling within.

Meanwhile, Mike M. calls the Lobster Mac and Cheese Roll from Cape Porpoise lobster shack Pier 77 his “new food obsession.” This decadent sandwich sees buttery elbow macaroni and tender chunks of lobster baked together in a creamy cheese sauce, then mounded into a griddled split-top bun. Mike raves, “It’s like the best lobster roll and the best mac-and-cheese mashed into one unbelievable sandwich. I can’t get enough!” The combination of flavors and textures is comforting yet complex.

Even at upscale Portland restaurant Eventide Oyster Co., the Lobster Mac and Cheese Roll has developed an ardent following. Chef Mike Wiley explains its origins: “We wanted to do our own fun riff on the iconic Maine lobster roll. Combining rich, cheesy macaroni and sweet lobster meat seemed like the ultimate indulgence.” The result is a sandwich bursting with decadence that still captures the essence of Maine.

For lobster roll purist Wendy W., the trend was initially off-putting. But at the urging of friends, she finally tried the Lobster Mac and Cheese Roll from Cape Elizabeth spot The Lobster Shack and became a convert. “I didn’t think you could improve upon the classic, but this sandwich is just so satisfying,” she admits. “The creaminess pairs so well with the brininess of the lobster. It’s my new guilty pleasure!”