Summer in New England isn’t complete without a proper lobster-shack experience. For inspiration, here are the 12 best lobster shacks we’ve found.
By Mike Urban|May 01 2012|
Coffee By Design | Portland, Maine
Photo Credit : Katherine Keenan
As summer approaches, lobster shacks along New England’s coast start popping open, like flowers in bloom, for the short-yet-busy season. Connecticut-based travel writer Mike Urban, author of the book Lobster Shacks: A Road-Trip Guide to New England’s Best Lobster Joints, dishes his choices for the 12 best lobster shacks in New England.
Five Islands Lobster Co. in Georgetown, Maine. Photo Credit : Courtesy of Mike UrbanFive Islands Lobster Co.
Located on a pier at the end of Route 127, Five Islands Lobster serves up some of the best cold-water, hard-shell lobster you’ll find anywhere. Throw in its award-winning fried clams and the shack’s magnificent view of Sheepscot Bay, and you’ll find it hard to leave. Georgetown, ME. Arnold’s Lobster & Clam Bar
Touristy though it may seem, Arnold’s is the place to go for succulently steamed lobster on the Cape. Owner Nate Nickerson III keeps the lines moving while serving more than a thousand customers on most summer days: lobster rolls, of course, but also crab cakes topped with guacamole and summer salsa. Eastham, MA.Chauncey Creek Lobster Pier in Kittery Point, Maine. Photo Credit : Brenda DarrochChauncey Creek Lobster Pier
This delightful waterside eatery, worlds away from the outlet-mall crowds of nearby Kittery, sits on a 200-foot-wide planked pier astride a broad tidal creek. With its colorfully painted picnic tables and a bird’s-eye view of continuously passing watercraft, Chauncey Creek is a great place to BYOB and tuck into meaty, fresh lobsters imported daily from Canada’s cold waters. Kittery Point, ME. Abbott’s Lobster in the Rough
Abbott’s cooks its lobsters via the low-steaming method, in massive cast-iron vaults, to seal in all the crustaceans’ natural flavor. Dine next to the scenic harbor on a dock where striped bass feed on chowder crackers below. Abbott’s is also famous for its hot, buttery lobster roll—the version that’s a Connecticut original. Noank, CT. Thurston’s Lobster Pound in Bernard, Maine. Photo Credit : Brenda DarrochThurston’s Lobster Pound
Housed on a two-story, screened-in deck overlooking scenic Bass Harbor, Thurston’s is tops for off-the-boat-fresh lobster on Mount Desert Island. There’s a commercial boat dock next door where lobsters are brought in throughout the day, then boiled in a massive outdoor cooker right outside Thurston’s front door. Bernard, ME. Roy Moore Lobster Company
This may be the friendliest lobster shack anywhere. Housed in a diminutive shingled building on Rockport’s Bearskin Neck waterfront, Roy Moore Lobster cooks its crustaceans continuously throughout the day, so there’s rarely a wait for a fresh-cooked meal. Start with owner Ken Porter’s thick, creamy clam chowder, and dine atop wooden lobster crates on the crowded yet friendly back deck. Rockport, MA. Brown’s Lobster Pound in Seabrook, New Hampshire. Photo Credit : Aimee SeaveyBrown’s Lobster Pound
Perched over the tidal Blackwater River near Seabrook’s inviting beach, Brown’s has been serving up fresh boiled lobster since 1950. The timber-frame dining hall is a great place to feast on lobsters, fried clams, lobster rolls, and creamy, spicy lobster bisque. The summer sunsets off the back deck are not to be missed. Seabrook, NH. The Place
This is just about the only place anywhere that steams and then roasts its lobsters over an open-air, wood-fed firepit. The flavor is as unique and delightful as the tree stumps that serve as seats around brightly painted wooden tables. Two other must-haves from the firepit here are the roasted clams and the flame-roasted corn on the cob. Guilford, CT. The Clam Shack in Kennebunkport, Maine. Photo Credit : Darroch, BrendaThe Clam Shack
Don’t let the name fool you: There’s plenty of good lobster to be had at The Clam Shack. Owner Steve Kingston makes what may be the best lobster roll anywhere in his tiny riverside shack in downtown Kennebunkport. The lobster meat is picked fresh daily and kept ice-chilled until served on a toasted, lightly buttered burger bun. Kennebunkport, ME. Aunt Carrie’s
This shingled, Rhode Island–shore mainstay has been serving up fresh seafood for nearly 100 years. Known primarily as the birthplace of the clam cake, Carrie’s also serves excellent shore dinners of fresh boiled lobster, steamed clams, Rhode Island-style chowder, fried fish, and freshly baked pie for dessert. Narragansett, RI. [Editor’s note:This article originally included the Maine lobster shacks Cod End and Waterman’s Beach Lobster, which are now closed. In their place, the author recommends the following worthy contenders for New England’s best lobster shacks.]Shaw’s Fish & Lobster Wharf
A bit off the beaten path, Shaw’s in New Harbor is worth the trip. The lobster is “wicked” fresh, and the deck seating consists of picnic tables overlooking a picturesque harbor. The accommodations are casual, and the locals will tell you that this is the real lobster-eating deal.New Harbor, ME. McLoons Lobster Shack
One of the most picturesque lobster shacks in New England, McLoons is a relative newcomer, opening its doors in 2012 as an offshoot of the McLoons lobster wharf. Their four-ounce regular lobster roll and six-ounce “Rolls Royce” version are the most popular items, each served chilled, with mayo slathered on the bun or melted butter on the side. The whole steamed lobsters, pulled daily from nearby traps, are also outstanding. South Thomaston, ME.
What tops your list of the best lobster shacks in New England?
This article was first published in 2012 and has been updated.
Traditionalist….I do NOT consider hot lobster when it comes to lobster rolls. Just cold lobster, celery, Seidner’s mayo and a dash of thyme. There is a variation I enjoyed recently in Maryland. Same recipe, but with Old Bay seasoning. Not bad.
If you really want to know where to eat Local , Fresh Lobster…ask the Locals! Perkins Cove Lobster Pound in Ogunquit sells Lobster, caught fresh daily by the Owner/Operator Josh Audet. Josh has been Lobstering since he was a young man with his Grandfather Wayne Perkins. The Lobster comes straight off the boat in Perkins Cove and goes right to the Lobster Pound in Perkins Parking Lot. The Lobster Pound offers delivery to your Hotel,Motel or house if you are in Ogunquit. If you would like to eat there…there are a couple of picnic tables and they will cook them for you! If interested…Lobster can be packed to travel with advanced notice and depending on availability. Go to: Perkins Cove Lobster Pound.com and check them out. Thank You, Mary Ellen Smith
Who can forget about lobster landing in clinton CT. I am shocked that it did not make the list. Lobster landing has been in the national geographic time and time again. This small shack is a new england landmark.
One of the timeless questions, without any specific answer. Who has the best cheese steak in Philly, or who has the best NY pizza. Everyone has their favorites, so you really can’t choose. Besides everyone knows the best lobster rolls are made in Maine; specifically Harraseeket Lobster Pound, or Beckey’s.
What about the little restaurant at Two Lights in ME or Jake’s in Ossipee NH or Barbara’s in Conway NH. They are all great. Went to Brown’s once because it was on one of the shows on Travel Channel and showed a huge lobster roll. It was a normal size roll with about 1/2 cup of lobster.
How can anybody say “oh this place is the best” or “nobody compares to this place”! Unless you have tried all of these places listed, it is just sheer opinion! That’s why the dang list is given, 12 best shacks….go try them and THEN form an opinion!!
Mouth watering~ 0ver a number years would drive from White Mts. to different places. Fair prices & good service can be expected. Loved hearing the accents also.
Jim (whoever you are)… If you LOVE lobster, there isn’t any way to serve it that you can’t love. I grew up in New England and have gone to all corners of the six (6) New England states and have had the most wonderful lobster cooked and eaten hot or cold. There is just no way to prepare and serve lobster that isn’t FANTASTIC… (except maybe raw). I just turned 78 and I am a lobster lover!
PJ’s Pub in Westboro, MA has had the best Lobster Roll ever.. At least two tails 4-5 fullclaws knuckles and body meat no fillers… in a nisson roll with fries or slaw … best part less than 15 bucks…You need a knife and fork to eat it oh ya also a large half sour pickle to go with it
I have lived in Austin, TX for 20 years. Every summer I yearn for a real true lobster roll to no hope without a plane ticket. But now we have Garbo’s….which is the real deal flown in from the family’s pound in NH and served up in an authentic way from a street truck. It’s not NE in the summer, but it helps transport me there. Now if there was only a clam shack….
Five Islands Lobster. Georgetown, Maine. You got that right! Fresh fish, fried clams and of course, fresh lobster just minutes out of the sea. Dock-side dining at its best.
I have lived in RI for 53 years. When I was a kid Aunt Carries was the place to go. For the past 10 years, it has gone from bad to disgusting. The chowder is like dish water and the clam cakes might have one clam in it and also is almost always raw inside. I will never eat there again. Too many other great places in RI. Crows Nest, Harborside, Iggys ect.
The Lobster Shack in Perkins Cove and The Lobster Shack at Two Lights at Cape Elizabeth are awesome. The ambiance is the icing on the cake. Missing them both.
You missed The Lobster Pool on Folly Cove in Rockport! Wonderful lobster, lobster rolls, and all the rest. Lisa Waring makes all her customers feel welcome.
I agree….. got lost finding the place and was disappointed in the overpriced lobster roll. my favorite place is Bailey’s at PinePoint, Scarborough, ME….$10 and loaded with lobster.
Geez, I live in Brunswick Maine and I am not even sure I have heard of the Crabby Lobster… Is that the food truck that only started service last year? If so, I can’t blame the writer for only include proven establishments that have been around for a while. FWIW, I think this is one of the best lists I’ve seen in a while insofar as Maine is concerned. They resisted to temptation to put the tourist trap Red’s on it. Yay!
I live right down the street. Not to be a jerk, but it’s “Bayley’s” (just in case anyone would want to look it up). Awesome lobster roll box lunches, haddock chowder, and outdoor bar (“The Bait Shed Bar.)” Great service. Steamers, oysters, etc. No, I don’t work there – I just go a lot.
Because Reds is a tourist trap. Where you might have to stand in line for 30-45 minutes smelling car exhaust. Locals and others in the know bypass Red’s and go to places like Five Islands, where you get a million dollar view.
I like The Little Stone House in Guilford too, great lobster rolls, Thursday night music outside, great beers & wine available, cool peeps, all reasonable priced in the perfect setting.
I know that times does change things, and I’m sorry to hear about Abbotts. But back when I went there almost 40 years ago, it might have had a different name, and it was only two small buildings, and the most memorable lobster roll I have ever enjoyed to date. Sad.
Wow… What a great list… I’m from Louisiana and love our crawfish BUT Lobsta is awesome… Been to over half of the mentioned spots ( and many many more not mentioned) and have never met a lobsta I didn’t love… Have fun out there checking out your favorites!!!! Randy
Really? Lobster here in Austin? I’m from NE and was thinking no lobster for me this summer! Wow! I’ll check it out! Quality Seafood has lobster on Sat for $30 but the water they cook it in isn’t salt water and maybe new water isn’t even used for each individual lobster. It’s still 1-1/4 though… pretty good size!
Thanks for the mention! We have been here 100 years next year and made the very first lobster roll in the State of Maine! – Sue @ Bayleys’s Lobster Pound, Pine Point Maine.
Your Eastham MA choice is my least favorite on Cape Cod. They are only interested in large groups. They are ruder than rude to single women. I would rather go anywhere else.
Thurston’s=Tourist Trap. Plus, they weigh your lobster with water in the container so you pay for water too. Go to Southwest Harbor Lobster Pound instead.
When I was a kid (I’m in my 70’s now) my grandfather and other relatives lived in Guilford. We lived in Milford but would come to the Little Stone House on special occasions. Loved their food We also went to Bernice’s(?) just down the road. I live in California and there are no places to compare with New England lobster. Miss it so much!
Don/t you mean The Beachplum in North Hampton, NEW HAMPSHIRE? That is where Rt 1-A , Lafayette Road, is located. Believe me, Northampton MA is really far from the beach!
The best place to eat fried clams in Essex is The Village Restaurant. Family owned for more than 50 years, it offers a clam plate with french fries and homemade coleslaw for $14.99 on Tuesday. Comfortable and attractive surroundings are a plus.
I haven’t yet tried the Beach Plum in North Hampton, MA. Will have to do so on my next visit back.
However, COASTAL LIVING MAGAZINE and Yahoo mentioned Al’s Seafood on Rte. 1-A (Lafayette Road) in North Hampton, NH, as one of the best seafood places on any US Coast (Atlantic, Gulf or Pacific). My late aunt said it had great seafood, but it was a bit primitive for my elderly aunt’s tastes.
The Copper Lantern, “across the street” from Al’s is great too. Great seafood at great prices, including Fried Clam rolls.
I am reluctant to mention my personal favorite, as I don’t want it crowded when I visit there this summer. It is the Airport Café, just off Rte. 1-A, in North Hampton, NH. The Lobster Rolls are fabulous and the price is as well. The décor is “early aviation” and has to be seen to be enjoyed.
If you’re in the mood for breakfast (they’re open from 6 or 7 AM until 2 PM) they have wonderful Blueberry Pancakes loaded with fresh blueberries. Can’t wait to get back there from my home in CA.
I would agree. Young’s is the best lobster pound anywhere! If you don’t agree you haven’t been.
Was surprised by the list. Seemed tourist heavy. Another good one in New Harbor, Maine – Shaw’s LP.
I hate these reviews where they send tourits to places that are not “local”. hahaha
Thanks for letting us know. It’s not about being “famous”, it’s about being local ANG GOOD!.
Just like in Maine, don’t go to Red’s Eat, go to places like a local fisheman in Damariscotta (93 Elm Street). He has the best lobster roll you can find, and also the freshest live lobsters. Places like this is where tourists should go…not a “famous” place where the rolls are not even good.
BEST ROLLS IN MAINE … Joe Lane Lobsterman on Elm Street -Damariscotta.
Hidden place where only locals know about it. The tourists go crazy when the find this place. It’s unbelievable. They have different rolls like Tomato basil Mayo; lime Cilantro, grilled cheese, lobster BLT … and the traditional of course.
Can’t wait to go back there. So lucky I meet a local that showed me this place.
Bob Lobster–absolutely! Great lobster, agreed to best clams on the North Shore and to-die-for lobster-corn chowder. Gorgeous sunset views over the marsh. And, less expensive than anywhere else. Great lobster roll for 12 bucks.
Fox’s lobster house in York Beach Maine is my definite favorite! Then head up the road to Brown’s ice cream for dessert…view of Nubble Light with delish meal!!
Red’s is way over priced, skimpy rolls, and stale tasting to boot! I should add that the service was a lot less than friendly. I’ll NEVER go back there.
I have read all the above reviews for the past couple of months. I am a seafood foodie from Washington, D.C. planning a trip north in October. I as having a difficult time deciding on a good location to visit to get the most bang for my buck for an excellent variety of seafood but primarily LOBSTER and OYSTERS. My husband and I are open to any and all suggestions but no tourist traps, we want to eat with the locals. I originally planned on Cape Cod, MA but now I’m having second thoughts. HELP!!
Nobody has mentioned Libby’s Market in Brunswick, ME. A small mom-and-pop convenience store, with the most unbelievable lobster roll we have ever had, and we have been going to Maine for thirty years! Really fresh lobster, as the owner is a lobsterman. Unexpected and unbeatable.
Every year we make a trip Miller’s Coop. in South Thomaston just down the road from Waterman’s. Family run nice and clean. Great Lobster and home made pies Eat at a picnic table outside or undercover. Beautiful scenery and watch them get their lobster boats ready for the next day. We are from central Maine and we enjoy Miller’s!
Lobster Landing in Clinton, CT has the best lobster rolls (in my opinion).
Clam Castle used to be my favorite clam shack, but it was taken over by Donahue’s and I haven’t been there since.
Oh, to go to Maine, if only I could. All year, in Chicago, I pine for lobster and clams in New England. But I still only manage to get as far as Boston and Cape Cod. I see the one Cape Cod lobster shack got panned by single women, which I am. So where do the locals go? And also, where is good in Boston? Some day, I’ll get to Maine again, but not soon enough.
My husband’s sub was in dry dock at Portsmouth, NH thirty two years ago. I loved a place in Kittery Pointe, Maine, Captain Simeon’s. We drove up in 1991 after moving back to Pennsylvania and unfortunately chose the day it was closed. I can’t seem to find it on line. Does anyone know what happened to it? Being from Pennsylvania, I loved that the meal was five or six dollars. It was clean and charming, too, right on the bay off Rt. 1.
Captain Scott’s in New London, CT has been our to go to seafood place for the last 7 years, at least. Yes, forget Abbotts. You can get a lobster dinner, 1 1/4 pds, corn on the cob, baby potatoes, cole slaw, and New England clam chowder for around $25! Oysters, shrimp, mussels, and steamers are available. And if you want a hot dog, they have them too! Entertainment on the weekends!
Someone mentioned Bob’s on Plum Island road. I had a lobster roll yesterday there and it was very small and the lobster meat was not fresh. This review didn’t mention the Clam Box in Ipswich which has awesome food and is know around the country. Also J T Farnhams in Essex has the Best fried seafood in Essex. Just ask the locals. Also the Food Network did a challenge between Farnhams and Woodmans and Farnhams won with superior food. The trophy is sitting right on the counter where you order your food. Locals do not go to Woodmans. The food is only so so with rather small portions and is very over priced. Also you have to buy tartar sauce there. It’s the only place in the world that i have been where they sell you a condiment after buying a $31 clam plate which is the current price.
We have visited Woodman’s several times recently. The portions were huge, more than we could eat (and we are big eaters) Still the best clam place anywhere because they use cornmeal and evaporated milk. Superb for Gluten Free folks.
Absolutely my kids 1st lobster was there in 1992 when they were 11- 10 + 8 and we have not missed a summer going there since! Vacation on Higgins Beach where my parents visited relatives every summer from 1954. I was 4! Now my grandkids go there since they were born oldest now 6 + 3 more after her. They have all gone – gotta teach them early where to get lobstah rool w/ full pound meat on it and crab cakes umm umm ummm
As a few other folks have mentioned- Two Lights in Cape Elizabeth Me deserves to be here- especially over Browns. In fact I think you are better going across the street from Browns and hitting up Markeys!
If you are on Martha’s Vineyard, Larsen’s Fish Market in Chilmark is the place to go. Both hot and cold lobster rolls. Fabulous! And Lobster bisque to die for!
Sadly, Brown’s Lobster Pound will be closed for while. They had a bad kitchen fire overnight 8/19-20/2017. No humans were hurt, but I cry for the lobsters. We’ll have to try some of the others on the list and in the comments when we vacation this fall as Brown’s was one of our must go-to’s. And will be again, when they reopen.
Whenever we arrive in Maine our first stop has to be at Harraseeket Lunch and Lobster Company to satisfy our needs for lobster and our mandatory stop at L.L.Bean satisfies our camp needs.
You missed the best. Red’s Eats in Wiscassett Maine is the very best. Sometimes the lines are so long you wait nearly an hour but it’s always worth the wait. I live near Kennebunkport and am surrounded by places where I can eat lobster anytime but Red’s Eats is always my first choice.
I didn’t see Margaret’s, a little shack, by the side of the road. These lobster rolls are at the top of the list. I think better or as good as Red’s without the high price tags and lines. Hand picketed fresh lobster, on a nicely grilled roll, packed full of lobster, even claw meat. Served with hot butter. Soooo good. Margaret’s Rt 1 Northport Me
Getting the last two hot dogs from reds for the season just as they are about to close, just a couple of other people there. Watching the sun go down, now that’s a New England experience!
Ford’s Lobster is the llace locals go to in Noank. Only the tourists fo to Abbott’s anymore. The prices are high and the lobster meat is tough. The food has lost all flavor and bland. Not the same restaurant from years ago. Quality has gone downhill! Sad!
Trenton bridge lobster pound, in Trenton Me. before the bridge to Mt. Desert Island (Acadia National Park) working the third generation the family I can’t say enough about this place we’ve been going there over 20 years best steamers and lobsters we’ve ever had.
You’ve got to be kidding, Abbotts? They are the biggest tourist trap ever! Where it is located is beautiful. Take it from a resident stay away!
You forgot Lobster Landing in Clinton, CT. Best lobster roll on the CT shore.
The Crabby Lobster on Maine St in Brunswick, ME is the best 🙂 the owner is a lobsterman n it’s his fresh catch!
What no Red’s Eat’s in Wiscasset, ME????
Are you kidding me? Johnny Ads did not make the list??
Traditionalist….I do NOT consider hot lobster when it comes to lobster rolls. Just cold lobster, celery, Seidner’s mayo and a dash of thyme. There is a variation I enjoyed recently in Maryland. Same recipe, but with Old Bay seasoning. Not bad.
If you really want to know where to eat Local , Fresh Lobster…ask the Locals! Perkins Cove Lobster Pound in Ogunquit sells Lobster, caught fresh daily by the Owner/Operator Josh Audet. Josh has been Lobstering since he was a young man with his Grandfather Wayne Perkins. The Lobster comes straight off the boat in Perkins Cove and goes right to the Lobster Pound in Perkins Parking Lot. The Lobster Pound offers delivery to your Hotel,Motel or house if you are in Ogunquit. If you would like to eat there…there are a couple of picnic tables and they will cook them for you! If interested…Lobster can be packed to travel with advanced notice and depending on availability. Go to: Perkins Cove Lobster Pound.com and check them out. Thank You, Mary Ellen Smith
Who can forget about lobster landing in clinton CT. I am shocked that it did not make the list. Lobster landing has been in the national geographic time and time again. This small shack is a new england landmark.
Johnathans in North Conway NH is very good!
Sounds great!
One of the timeless questions, without any specific answer. Who has the best cheese steak in Philly, or who has the best NY pizza. Everyone has their favorites, so you really can’t choose. Besides everyone knows the best lobster rolls are made in Maine; specifically Harraseeket Lobster Pound, or Beckey’s.
How bout James hook & company in the heart of Boston?
There’s a place serving lobster fresh off the boat – it’s on the pier in Portsmouth, NH.
What about the little restaurant at Two Lights in ME or Jake’s in Ossipee NH or Barbara’s in Conway NH. They are all great. Went to Brown’s once because it was on one of the shows on Travel Channel and showed a huge lobster roll. It was a normal size roll with about 1/2 cup of lobster.
I think the Best place is Young’s Lobster’s Pound in Belfast, Maine. I have been going there 50+ years.
How can anybody say “oh this place is the best” or “nobody compares to this place”! Unless you have tried all of these places listed, it is just sheer opinion! That’s why the dang list is given, 12 best shacks….go try them and THEN form an opinion!!
RED’s is a definite YES! Agreed that we should all forget Abbots….
But it is inland!
Well, at least we pretty much all agree, if you want great lobster, go to the source…coastal MAINE!
Mouth watering~ 0ver a number years would drive from White Mts. to different places. Fair prices & good service can be expected. Loved hearing the accents also.
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Then you must hate lobster. To smother lobster in mayo and serve it cold is just awful. Hot and with butter is the only way.
Forget my opinion but consider those of the masses; a number of these places get poor reviews on the user authored travel websites
Jim (whoever you are)… If you LOVE lobster, there isn’t any way to serve it that you can’t love. I grew up in New England and have gone to all corners of the six (6) New England states and have had the most wonderful lobster cooked and eaten hot or cold. There is just no way to prepare and serve lobster that isn’t FANTASTIC… (except maybe raw). I just turned 78 and I am a lobster lover!
Sorry but you missed the mark…The Skipper in Cape Cod By far the BEST! WickedGood Lobsta Roll…
The Beachplum in North Hampton MA on rt 1A and The Raw Bar in New Seabury Or Hyannis MA. Both places are fantastic.
Bob Lobster on Plum Island Turnpike in Newbury, MA should be on the list. Also has the best fried clams on the North Shore!
PJ’s Pub in Westboro, MA has had the best Lobster Roll ever.. At least two tails 4-5 fullclaws knuckles and body meat no fillers… in a nisson roll with fries or slaw … best part less than 15 bucks…You need a knife and fork to eat it oh ya also a large half sour pickle to go with it
Port Lobster in Kennebunkport – the best!
Muscungous Bay Lobster on the dock in Round Pond Maine! BYO everything but the lobstah!
I have lived in Austin, TX for 20 years. Every summer I yearn for a real true lobster roll to no hope without a plane ticket. But now we have Garbo’s….which is the real deal flown in from the family’s pound in NH and served up in an authentic way from a street truck. It’s not NE in the summer, but it helps transport me there. Now if there was only a clam shack….
You have to ck out The Raw Bar in Mashpee. Best Lobster rolls!!
Five Islands Lobster. Georgetown, Maine. You got that right! Fresh fish, fried clams and of course, fresh lobster just minutes out of the sea. Dock-side dining at its best.
I have lived in RI for 53 years. When I was a kid Aunt Carries was the place to go. For the past 10 years, it has gone from bad to disgusting. The chowder is like dish water and the clam cakes might have one clam in it and also is almost always raw inside. I will never eat there again. Too many other great places in RI. Crows Nest, Harborside, Iggys ect.
I agree Reds Eats is great and the best fried clams too.
Cold beer, lobster roll w/butter @ Perkins Cove!! Oh how we miss it! Murrells Inlert SC has the weather I wildlife/nature-Maine has the LOBSTAH!!
Woodmans?
The Lobster Shack in Perkins Cove and The Lobster Shack at Two Lights at Cape Elizabeth are awesome. The ambiance is the icing on the cake. Missing them both.
don’t forget the Lobster Shack in Branford, Ct
You missed The Lobster Pool on Folly Cove in Rockport! Wonderful lobster, lobster rolls, and all the rest. Lisa Waring makes all her customers feel welcome.
I agree….. got lost finding the place and was disappointed in the overpriced lobster roll. my favorite place is Bailey’s at PinePoint, Scarborough, ME….$10 and loaded with lobster.
agree…hot or cold…..love it!
Geez, I live in Brunswick Maine and I am not even sure I have heard of the Crabby Lobster… Is that the food truck that only started service last year? If so, I can’t blame the writer for only include proven establishments that have been around for a while. FWIW, I think this is one of the best lists I’ve seen in a while insofar as Maine is concerned. They resisted to temptation to put the tourist trap Red’s on it. Yay!
I live right down the street. Not to be a jerk, but it’s “Bayley’s” (just in case anyone would want to look it up). Awesome lobster roll box lunches, haddock chowder, and outdoor bar (“The Bait Shed Bar.)” Great service. Steamers, oysters, etc. No, I don’t work there – I just go a lot.
Because Reds is a tourist trap. Where you might have to stand in line for 30-45 minutes smelling car exhaust. Locals and others in the know bypass Red’s and go to places like Five Islands, where you get a million dollar view.
I like The Little Stone House in Guilford too, great lobster rolls, Thursday night music outside, great beers & wine available, cool peeps, all reasonable priced in the perfect setting.
Have to agree we boat out of royal river boat yard and that’s not bad choices
Larson’s Lunchbox in Wiscasset, awesome lobster roll. The owners make you feel welcome. Reasonable prices. Sit outside and watch the day pass by.
I know that times does change things, and I’m sorry to hear about Abbotts. But back when I went there almost 40 years ago, it might have had a different name, and it was only two small buildings, and the most memorable lobster roll I have ever enjoyed to date. Sad.
Wow… What a great list… I’m from Louisiana and love our crawfish BUT Lobsta is awesome… Been to over half of the mentioned spots ( and many many more not mentioned) and have never met a lobsta I didn’t love… Have fun out there checking out your favorites!!!! Randy
Really? Lobster here in Austin? I’m from NE and was thinking no lobster for me this summer! Wow! I’ll check it out! Quality Seafood has lobster on Sat for $30 but the water they cook it in isn’t salt water and maybe new water isn’t even used for each individual lobster. It’s still 1-1/4 though… pretty good size!
You seem to be missing Woodman’s in Essex, MA.
Yup!!! Gotta go to Ford’s
I prefer the Lobster Shack in Perkins cove! Amazing lobster roll, amazing steamers. Love the owner, he’s there every day and the nicest ever 🙂
Seawitch…peabody, ma
Not the greatest atmosphere, but the best lobster at a great price!
beachplum rocks!!
Harraseeket Lunch & Loster in Freeport, Maine!
Thanks for the mention! We have been here 100 years next year and made the very first lobster roll in the State of Maine! – Sue @ Bayleys’s Lobster Pound, Pine Point Maine.
Quoddy Bay Lobster in Eastport, Maine
I’ve been to the Beach Plum in North Hampton NH, and they have awesome lobster (LOTS of it) in rolls with NO FILLERS!! THE best!!
What about the Nordic Lodge in RI.
Obviously another list written by flatlanders. The Number 1 Lobster Shack in Maine is where ever you stop, set up and cook your own….
The Lobster Landing in Clinton, CT have the best lobster rolls in the State!!
Your Eastham MA choice is my least favorite on Cape Cod. They are only interested in large groups. They are ruder than rude to single women. I would rather go anywhere else.
Thurston’s=Tourist Trap. Plus, they weigh your lobster with water in the container so you pay for water too. Go to Southwest Harbor Lobster Pound instead.
When I was a kid (I’m in my 70’s now) my grandfather and other relatives lived in Guilford. We lived in Milford but would come to the Little Stone House on special occasions. Loved their food We also went to Bernice’s(?) just down the road. I live in California and there are no places to compare with New England lobster. Miss it so much!
Don/t you mean The Beachplum in North Hampton, NEW HAMPSHIRE? That is where Rt 1-A , Lafayette Road, is located. Believe me, Northampton MA is really far from the beach!
Woodman’s in Essex, MA, claims to be where the (whole) Fried Clam was invented. However, the locals don’t go there. To damned crowded and touristy.
Where do the locals go?
The best place to eat fried clams in Essex is The Village Restaurant. Family owned for more than 50 years, it offers a clam plate with french fries and homemade coleslaw for $14.99 on Tuesday. Comfortable and attractive surroundings are a plus.
I haven’t yet tried the Beach Plum in North Hampton, MA. Will have to do so on my next visit back.
However, COASTAL LIVING MAGAZINE and Yahoo mentioned Al’s Seafood on Rte. 1-A (Lafayette Road) in North Hampton, NH, as one of the best seafood places on any US Coast (Atlantic, Gulf or Pacific). My late aunt said it had great seafood, but it was a bit primitive for my elderly aunt’s tastes.
The Copper Lantern, “across the street” from Al’s is great too. Great seafood at great prices, including Fried Clam rolls.
I am reluctant to mention my personal favorite, as I don’t want it crowded when I visit there this summer. It is the Airport Café, just off Rte. 1-A, in North Hampton, NH. The Lobster Rolls are fabulous and the price is as well. The décor is “early aviation” and has to be seen to be enjoyed.
If you’re in the mood for breakfast (they’re open from 6 or 7 AM until 2 PM) they have wonderful Blueberry Pancakes loaded with fresh blueberries. Can’t wait to get back there from my home in CA.
A new Lobster Roll joint on the waterfront Ch’town , Prince Edward Island called ” Dave’s Lobster—-Reviews are GREAT !
Our family’s go to spot for three generations.
Abbots is a rip off. While not technically a lobster shack, Stowes in West Haven has the freshest seafood and amazing lobster rolls.
I would agree. Young’s is the best lobster pound anywhere! If you don’t agree you haven’t been.
Was surprised by the list. Seemed tourist heavy. Another good one in New Harbor, Maine – Shaw’s LP.
Bayley’s Lobster Pound….I agree. Fabulous lobster rolls and chowders. Well known with the locals and those who’ve done their homework.
I hate these reviews where they send tourits to places that are not “local”. hahaha
Thanks for letting us know. It’s not about being “famous”, it’s about being local ANG GOOD!.
Just like in Maine, don’t go to Red’s Eat, go to places like a local fisheman in Damariscotta (93 Elm Street). He has the best lobster roll you can find, and also the freshest live lobsters. Places like this is where tourists should go…not a “famous” place where the rolls are not even good.
BEST ROLLS IN MAINE … Joe Lane Lobsterman on Elm Street -Damariscotta.
Hidden place where only locals know about it. The tourists go crazy when the find this place. It’s unbelievable. They have different rolls like Tomato basil Mayo; lime Cilantro, grilled cheese, lobster BLT … and the traditional of course.
Can’t wait to go back there. So lucky I meet a local that showed me this place.
Sh-h-h-h! Don’t tell the author about Downeast Maine…it is a long drive from CT.
Bob Lobster–absolutely! Great lobster, agreed to best clams on the North Shore and to-die-for lobster-corn chowder. Gorgeous sunset views over the marsh. And, less expensive than anywhere else. Great lobster roll for 12 bucks.
Fox’s lobster house in York Beach Maine is my definite favorite! Then head up the road to Brown’s ice cream for dessert…view of Nubble Light with delish meal!!
browns in seabrook nh the best
great lobster,great fried seafood,try it out today
Red’s is way over priced, skimpy rolls, and stale tasting to boot! I should add that the service was a lot less than friendly. I’ll NEVER go back there.
My favorite by far, Two Lights Lobster Shack in Cape Elizabeth, ME.
Wait… What? No Champlin’s in Galilee, RI? Best lobster roll!
Nunan’s Lobster Hut in Kennebunkport, ME. Great little place. Only takes cash.
I have read all the above reviews for the past couple of months. I am a seafood foodie from Washington, D.C. planning a trip north in October. I as having a difficult time deciding on a good location to visit to get the most bang for my buck for an excellent variety of seafood but primarily LOBSTER and OYSTERS. My husband and I are open to any and all suggestions but no tourist traps, we want to eat with the locals. I originally planned on Cape Cod, MA but now I’m having second thoughts. HELP!!
Hi Christal,
The lobster shacks in New England will be closing soon, so be sure to call ahead before heading to any at this time of year.
Nobody has mentioned Libby’s Market in Brunswick, ME. A small mom-and-pop convenience store, with the most unbelievable lobster roll we have ever had, and we have been going to Maine for thirty years! Really fresh lobster, as the owner is a lobsterman. Unexpected and unbeatable.
Every year we make a trip Miller’s Coop. in South Thomaston just down the road from Waterman’s. Family run nice and clean. Great Lobster and home made pies Eat at a picnic table outside or undercover. Beautiful scenery and watch them get their lobster boats ready for the next day. We are from central Maine and we enjoy Miller’s!
Lobster Landing in Clinton, CT has the best lobster rolls (in my opinion).
Clam Castle used to be my favorite clam shack, but it was taken over by Donahue’s and I haven’t been there since.
Your so right about everything except its in Damariscotta not Wiscasset, very close by though.
You are correct. There are many many good quality lobster and clam places on the Cape. Always go where the locals go.
You forgot the Brickhouse in Hooksett NH! They have a great lobster roll!!
Oh, to go to Maine, if only I could. All year, in Chicago, I pine for lobster and clams in New England. But I still only manage to get as far as Boston and Cape Cod. I see the one Cape Cod lobster shack got panned by single women, which I am. So where do the locals go? And also, where is good in Boston? Some day, I’ll get to Maine again, but not soon enough.
Lobster Hut and Cabby Shack Plymouth Ma
Lobster Hut in Plymouth—best lobsta roll and best lobsta bisque!!
Agreed!!!! How does “The Place” make the list, and LL doesn’t?
My husband’s sub was in dry dock at Portsmouth, NH thirty two years ago. I loved a place in Kittery Pointe, Maine, Captain Simeon’s. We drove up in 1991 after moving back to Pennsylvania and unfortunately chose the day it was closed. I can’t seem to find it on line. Does anyone know what happened to it? Being from Pennsylvania, I loved that the meal was five or six dollars. It was clean and charming, too, right on the bay off Rt. 1.
I agree – We go to Capt Scott’s in New London, it’s the best. Been going there for years and we’ve never been disappointed!
Captain Scott’s in New London, CT has been our to go to seafood place for the last 7 years, at least. Yes, forget Abbotts. You can get a lobster dinner, 1 1/4 pds, corn on the cob, baby potatoes, cole slaw, and New England clam chowder for around $25! Oysters, shrimp, mussels, and steamers are available. And if you want a hot dog, they have them too! Entertainment on the weekends!
Someone mentioned Bob’s on Plum Island road. I had a lobster roll yesterday there and it was very small and the lobster meat was not fresh. This review didn’t mention the Clam Box in Ipswich which has awesome food and is know around the country. Also J T Farnhams in Essex has the Best fried seafood in Essex. Just ask the locals. Also the Food Network did a challenge between Farnhams and Woodmans and Farnhams won with superior food. The trophy is sitting right on the counter where you order your food. Locals do not go to Woodmans. The food is only so so with rather small portions and is very over priced. Also you have to buy tartar sauce there. It’s the only place in the world that i have been where they sell you a condiment after buying a $31 clam plate which is the current price.
We have visited Woodman’s several times recently. The portions were huge, more than we could eat (and we are big eaters) Still the best clam place anywhere because they use cornmeal and evaporated milk. Superb for Gluten Free folks.
Captain Simeons went out of business years ago….
You really missed the boat by not including “Red’s” in Wiscasset Village, Maine!!!! Hands down, the very best lobster roll there is!!!!!!!!!!!
Absolutely my kids 1st lobster was there in 1992 when they were 11- 10 + 8 and we have not missed a summer going there since! Vacation on Higgins Beach where my parents visited relatives every summer from 1954. I was 4! Now my grandkids go there since they were born oldest now 6 + 3 more after her. They have all gone – gotta teach them early where to get lobstah rool w/ full pound meat on it and crab cakes umm umm ummm
As a few other folks have mentioned- Two Lights in Cape Elizabeth Me deserves to be here- especially over Browns. In fact I think you are better going across the street from Browns and hitting up Markeys!
I highly recommend Captain Scotts in New London, Ct; their fare is perfection and superior in my opinion to many in this area…
I agree Bayleys is the best been vacationing in Maine for over 10 years.
If you are on Martha’s Vineyard, Larsen’s Fish Market in Chilmark is the place to go. Both hot and cold lobster rolls. Fabulous! And Lobster bisque to die for!
Sadly, Brown’s Lobster Pound will be closed for while. They had a bad kitchen fire overnight 8/19-20/2017. No humans were hurt, but I cry for the lobsters. We’ll have to try some of the others on the list and in the comments when we vacation this fall as Brown’s was one of our must go-to’s. And will be again, when they reopen.
Just went to the lobster shack in Branford ct. Amazing lobster roll and chowder.
They make an awesome lobster roll! Great call!
Whenever we arrive in Maine our first stop has to be at Harraseeket Lunch and Lobster Company to satisfy our needs for lobster and our mandatory stop at L.L.Bean satisfies our camp needs.
Ditto!
You missed the best. Red’s Eats in Wiscassett Maine is the very best. Sometimes the lines are so long you wait nearly an hour but it’s always worth the wait. I live near Kennebunkport and am surrounded by places where I can eat lobster anytime but Red’s Eats is always my first choice.
I didn’t see Margaret’s, a little shack, by the side of the road. These lobster rolls are at the top of the list. I think better or as good as Red’s without the high price tags and lines. Hand picketed fresh lobster, on a nicely grilled roll, packed full of lobster, even claw meat. Served with hot butter. Soooo good. Margaret’s Rt 1 Northport Me
DOES DOWN EAST LOBSTER POOL STILL EXIST IN HARTFORD CT ?
i do t think so. we used to go there all the time when i was a kid (like in the 60’s). glad someone else remembers it too.
I believe Ruth Drake was the owner of Down East in Hartford. I loved the lobster rolls.
One of my first jobs was working for Ruth.
All of seafood came from Maine from her brothers
Getting the last two hot dogs from reds for the season just as they are about to close, just a couple of other people there. Watching the sun go down, now that’s a New England experience!
Ford’s Lobster is the llace locals go to in Noank. Only the tourists fo to Abbott’s anymore. The prices are high and the lobster meat is tough. The food has lost all flavor and bland. Not the same restaurant from years ago. Quality has gone downhill! Sad!
Trenton bridge lobster pound, in Trenton Me. before the bridge to Mt. Desert Island (Acadia National Park) working the third generation the family I can’t say enough about this place we’ve been going there over 20 years best steamers and lobsters we’ve ever had.