There’s no denying it: Maine is lobster country. Enthusiasts travel from far and wide to sample the state’s most famous crustacean. But with so many options, where is the best place to eat lobster in Maine? This comprehensive guide, curated by food experts, will take you on a culinary tour of the most mouth-watering lobster eateries in Pine Tree State.
The Best Place To Eat Lobster In Maine
1. Barnacle Billy’s
Begin your Maine lobster adventure in the picturesque town of Ogunquit at Barnacle Billy’s. Known for its exceptional hospitality, Barnacle Billy’s serves up succulent lobster in a variety of forms. But, if it’s the classic experience you’re after, go for the whole steamed lobster. The decadent meat, coupled with the restaurant’s unique butter blend, will leave you yearning for more.
2. Bite into Maine
Bite into Maine, located in scenic Cape Elizabeth, offers a fresh twist on the classic lobster roll. Using local ingredients, this food truck serves up six different variations of lobster rolls, including the traditional Maine style, Connecticut style, and even a wasabi-infused roll. Every bite promises a burst of flavor that will redefine your lobster expectations.
3. Portland Lobster Company
Portland Lobster Company is a must-visit for any lobster aficionado. This waterfront restaurant, nestled in the heart of Portland, offers diners the freshest catch in a vibrant atmosphere. The steamed lobster and the award-winning lobster roll are absolute crowd-pleasers, making this spot a contender for the best lobster restaurant in Maine.
4. Day’s Crabmeat and Lobster
For over seven decades, Day’s Crabmeat and Lobster in Yarmouth has been dishing out some of the best lobster in Maine. Their specialty is the hard-shell lobster, renowned for its delectably rich and sweet meat. The family-friendly atmosphere and commitment to quality make Day’s a beloved institution among locals and tourists alike.
5. Five Islands Lobster
Nestled on an active fishing wharf in Georgetown, Five Islands Lobster Co. offers a quintessential Maine dining experience. Enjoy your lobster with breathtaking views of the Sheepscot River and the eponymous Five Islands. Renowned for its ocean-to-table approach, Five Islands serves arguably the freshest lobster you’ll ever taste.
6. Red’s Eats
Red’s Eats, a small roadside eatery in Wiscasset, arguably serves the best lobster roll in Maine, if not the world. Each roll is generously packed with a whole lobster’s worth of meat, lightly drizzled with butter or mayo. The lines might be long, but the gastronomic delight that awaits you is well worth the wait.
7. Shaw’s Wharf
Venture to the quaint fishing village of New Harbor to find Shaw’s Wharf. This classic lobster shack offers lobster caught straight from their own boats, ensuring a fresh and flavorful experience. Their boiled lobster, enjoyed on the dock overlooking the harbor, is an authentic Maine experience not to be missed.
8. Muscongus Bay Lobster
Muscongus Bay Lobster in Round Pond is another exceptional place to savor lobster. The lobster here is cooked outdoors in seawater for an added oceanic flavor. With scenic views of the Muscongus Bay, this family-run business offers a truly immersive and unforgettable Maine lobster experience.
9. McLoon’s
Located on Spruce Head Island, McLoon’s Lobster Shack offers breathtaking views and equally impressive lobster. Their traditional lobster roll, filled with sweet, succulent meat and lightly dressed with mayo, has locals and tourists alike singing praises.
10. Young’s Lobster Pound
Overlooking the Penobscot Bay in Belfast, Young’s Lobster Pound has been serving up some of the best lobster in Maine for four generations. This no-frills seafood spot offers whole lobsters, lobster rolls, and even lobster stews. Dine on the deck for a stunning view of the bay while you crack into your delicious meal.
11. Trenton Bridge Lobster Pound
For a unique lobster dining experience, head to Trenton Bridge Lobster Pound in Trenton. Here, lobsters are cooked in seawater over a wood-fired stove, imparting a distinct, mouth-watering flavor. As you watch your lobster being cooked on an open fire, you’ll appreciate this time-honored Maine tradition that makes the experience as memorable as the meal.
12. Thurston’s Lobster
Thurston’s Lobster in Bernard is another fantastic spot to enjoy fresh lobster. The restaurant’s relaxed vibe, coupled with breathtaking views of Bass Harbor, creates the perfect ambiance to enjoy your meal. Their boiled-to-perfection lobster and the rich, buttery lobster bisque are absolute must-tries.
13. Quoddy Bay Lobster
Finally, we arrive at Quoddy Bay Lobster in Eastport. This family-owned lobster shack, known for its ultra-fresh lobsters and panoramic ocean views, has been a favorite among locals for years. Their lobster rolls, loaded with fresh, succulent lobster meat, are the star attraction and will have you planning your next visit before you even leave.
Each of these places, in their unique ways, contributes to the rich tapestry of Maine’s lobster culture. Whether it’s your first visit or your hundredth, the Pine Tree State’s lobster offerings never cease to amaze. So grab your bib and join us on this unforgettable gastronomic journey. After all, the best place to eat lobster in Maine might just be the one you haven’t tried yet.
FAQs:
Q: What time of year is lobster season in Maine?
A: While you can get lobster year-round in Maine, the peak season is from late June to late December when lobsters are most abundant and active.
Q: What’s the difference between hard-shell and soft-shell lobsters?
A: Hard-shell lobsters have a more robust, flavorful meat and are more expensive. Soft-shell lobsters, also known as shedders, are easier to crack but have less meat.
Q: What’s the best way to eat a lobster?
A: Everyone has their preferred method, but most people start by twisting off the claws and tail. Don’t forget the meat in the legs and the body. Remember, it can get messy, so don’t be shy about wearing a bib!
Q: Do all these places serve other seafood?
A: Yes, most of these establishments offer a variety of seafood, including clams, scallops, and fish. Always check their menu or call ahead to confirm.
Q: What is the best month to eat lobster in Maine? A: The summer months, particularly July and August, are often considered the best months to eat lobster in Maine due to the abundance of lobsters. However, keep in mind that Maine’s lobster season extends from late June to late December, offering plenty of opportunities to enjoy this delicious crustacean.
Q: What city in Maine is known for lobster? A: While many cities in Maine are known for their lobster, Portland stands out as a top contender. This city is home to numerous restaurants and lobster shacks that serve up some of the state’s finest lobster dishes.
Q: What is the lobster capital of the world in Maine? A: Rockland, Maine, holds the title of “Lobster Capital of the World.” Every year, Rockland hosts the Maine Lobster Festival, a celebration dedicated to all things lobster, attracting visitors from all over the globe.
Q: Does Maine have the best lobster in the world? A: Yes, many seafood enthusiasts and experts agree that Maine lobster is the best in the world. The cold, clean waters of the Atlantic Ocean around Maine provide the ideal conditions for lobsters to thrive, resulting in a sweet, succulent meat that is hard to rival. The state’s commitment to sustainable fishing practices also ensures a high-quality product.