Dining in A Fish Shack at Batson River in Kennebunk, Maine

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Batson River’s heated fish shacks in Kennebunk are one of the most fun ways to enjoy a winter night out in Maine. I was so excited to finally snag a reservation and step inside my own private little shack, and it ended up being such a memorable experience. Here’s everything you need to know before booking one for yourself.

The Fish Shacks at Batson River in Kennebunk

Every winter, Batson River Kennebunk transforms part of its patio into private fish shacks!

Which are small heated cottages where you can enjoy a full meal outside while still staying warm.

Batson River’s patio transforms every winter into a row of private heated shacks you can reserve for dining.

They open in December, and each shack seats up to six people, making it a great option for a winter meal out.

It’s a really unique way to experience Maine in the winter, with great food, craft brews, and your own little space for the night.

What It Was Like Dining in a Heated Fish Shack

Here is a look into my visit, from the inside of the fish shack to everything we ate and drank.

Our Reservation on the Coldest Day of the Year

We booked our fish shack time slot on a Saturday, and of course, it ended up being the coldest day of the year. With a high of just one degree.

Walking up to the shacks honestly feels like stepping into a little winter village right in downtown Kennebunk.

But as true Mainers, we decided to bundle up, stick with our reservation, and make the most of it!

For another awesome Maine winter experience, try This Mobile Sauna at Popham Beach.

Stepping Inside the Fish Shack

After checking in, we were brought into our private fish shack, which had two small heaters going to keep things warm.

The inside was completely decked out in a full ice fishing theme, with a fish hanging from the ceiling, twinkle lights, and fishing decor.

Being able to enjoy a full restaurant meal in your own private space makes the fish shacks unique.

Looking out the windows, we could see snow covering downtown Kennebunk.

And for a moment, it genuinely felt like we were out in the middle of a frozen lake, not sitting right in front of Batson River.

Starting With Maine Beer

Once we settled in, we ordered a round of Batson River beers to kick off the experience.

I tried the Cryoscape Cold IPA, which was light, refreshing, and full of bright citrus and tropical hop flavor.

It felt like the perfect beer to match the frigid winter day outside.

Sipping local beer inside our little shack while the snow piled up outside was such a fun part of the experience.

We also tried the Canadian Pilsner, a crisp golden lager with subtle bready notes and a super clean, refreshing finish.

People often call it the “hockey beer,” and it tasted incredibly smooth and easy to drink.

What We Ate at the Batson River Fish Shacks

Then it was time for the food, which was easily one of my favorite parts of the entire trip.

We started with the Maine Lobster Bisque, because it wouldn’t feel like Maine without it.

Starting the meal with lobster bisque felt like the most classic Maine winter dining choice.

We also ordered the Duck Fat Cornbread with hot honey and bourbon maple butter, and it was absolutely delicious.

The duck fat cornbread was easily one of the best things we ordered, served warm with bourbon maple butter.

For our main dishes, we split the Batson Burger, topped with white American cheese, Boursin, onion, bacon, and lettuce.

We also added some greens with a classic Caesar salad with parmesan, fried garlic, white anchovy and lemon.

Visiting Acadia this winter? Here are 18 Things to Do in Acadia National Park in Winter!

A Winter Dining Experience I’ll Never Forget

There was something so unique about being able to enjoy a full restaurant meal inside this little shack.

They even had a blanket available if you got too cold.

Our waitress told us we were the only ones crazy enough to brave the shacks on the coldest winter day of the year.

But honestly, I wouldn’t have had it any other way.

How to Book the Fish Shacks at Batson River

Batson River’s fish shacks are available seasonally starting in December.

The shacks are private and seat up to six people, so it’s worth planning ahead if this is on your list.

You can reserve your fish shack directly through Batson River’s website.

They. dorequire a $25 hold to secure the shack, but it comes right off your bill at the end of your meal.

Explore More of Maine

I love exploring everything in Maine, all year round.

For another unique winter activity this Mobile Sauna at Popham Beach Should Be on Your Bucket List.

You should also visit this Cozy Maine Cabin that is the Perfect Winter Escape.

For hiking, here is your A Winter Hiking Guide to Mount Battie in Camden State Park.

I also recommend the New Hampshire Ice Castles: What to Know Before You Go.

For my favorite lobster rolls, read 21 Best Lobster Rolls in Maine You Need to Try.

Read all of my Maine Travel guides!