There’s nothing like biting into a buttery, overflowing lobster roll in Maine.

Whether you prefer it hot and drenched in butter or cold with a touch of mayo, Maine is home to some of the freshest and most delicious lobster rolls in the world.

From seaside shacks to local favorites, here are some of the best lobster rolls to try across the state.

Maine’s Lobster Rolls

After traveling up and down the coast and taste-testing my way through countless lobster shacks, I’ve put together this ultimate local guide to help you find the best lobster rolls in Maine.

What Makes a Great Lobster Roll?

Before we dive into my top picks, let’s break down what makes a lobster roll truly great:

Freshness: The lobster must be freshly caught, never frozen. The best shacks source their lobster straight from local fishermen.

Bun Quality: A buttered, griddled New England-style bun is the standard—soft inside, crispy outside.

Seasoning & Dressing: Some rolls are lightly dressed with mayo, while others are served warm with drawn butter. Some places get creative with unique toppings!

Portion Size: A generous serving of lobster meat is key—no skimping allowed!

Scenic Views: While not required, nothing beats enjoying a lobster roll with oceanfront views!

21 Best Lobster Rolls in Maine (2026)

Here are my picks for Maine’s best lobster rolls, locations, and average prices, in no particular order.

I tasted all of them myself and only added places that I think are worth the cost!

Looking for a specific lobster roll shack? Use the table of contents below

1. Red’s Eats

📍 Location: Wiscasset, ME
💰 Price: $36
🦞 Best For: The most lobster meat in one roll!

Red’s Eats is a Maine icon—and for good reason. Their lobster rolls are piled high with fresh, buttery lobster meat.

They serve the largest portions in Maine, with a whole lobster’s worth of meat in every roll.

The downside? Long lines! Expect to wait at least an hour during peak summer months, but trust me—it’s worth it.

Many famous visitors, including Andrew Zimmerman and Martha Stewart, have visited the renowned lobster shack, which is located in Wiscasset, right on Route 1.

Pro Tip: They are cash only! So make sure to bring enough to try everything on the menu.

Also, do not forget to try their $1 hot dog!

Want to know more? Read my guide: Red’s Eats and Their Famous Maine Lobster Roll

2. McLoons Lobster Shack

📍 Location: South Thomaston, ME
💰 Price: $27
🦞 Best For: Beautiful waterfront views

When I visited McLoons Lobster Shack in South Thomaston, Maine, it was everything I wanted in a lobster shack.

If you’re looking for an authentic Maine experience, this is the place to go. I could see the lobster boats bobbing in the water while I waited for my order.

The lobster roll was fresh and packed with huge pieces of lobster, served with mayo and butter, and a side of coleslaw.

Just look at the size of that claw!

Also, don’t forget a whoopee pie, they have one of the biggest I have seen!

3. Anna’s Water’s Edge Restaurant

📍 Location: Phippsburg, ME
💰 Price: $25
🦞 Best For: A classic Maine lobster roll on the water

Located at the end of Blacks Landing Rd, in Phippsburg, is one of my favorite seafood shacks in Maine, Anna’s Water’s Edge Restaurant.

As soon as you arrive, you’ll be greeted by stunning views of the water and rocky landscape.

I could tell the lobster was caught right off the dock a few feet away. The lobster was fresh and light, dressed in a little bit of mayo.

This Maine lobster shack offers a selection of beer and wine to enjoy with your lobster roll.

Take it down to the water for the ultimate lunch in Maine.

4. Lobster Land

📍 Location: Columbia, ME
💰 Price: $10
🦞 Best For: The most affordable lobster roll in Maine

Located on the side of the road in eastern Maine is Lobster Land. You simply cannot miss the sign as you make your way down Route One.

They serve lobster rolls for only $10! You can also get a boiled lobster, which they take right from the pot in front of you.

I’m not sure what they use for seasoning, but it was smoky and delicious, similar to a barbecued hot dog in the most amazing way possible.

Learn more about Lobsterland! Try This $10 Lobster Roll At Lobster Land In Maine

5. Abel’s Lobster

📍 Location: Mount Desert, ME
💰 Price: $30
🦞 Best For: Scenic harbor views

Located along Somes Sound, Abel’s Lobster is the perfect spot for enjoying a lobster roll with waterfront views.

The view at Abel’s Lobster is captivating, with blue water, boats docking, and a light ocean breeze.

Their grilled brioche bun and generous chunks of lobster make this a standout option near Bar Harbor.

It is a perfect place to spend a summer day near Acadia National Park. We paired our lobster rolls with local Maine beers, which we enjoyed while chowing down.

Check out my Acadia National Travel Guides for detailed hiking guides, activities, and more!

6. The Travelin’ Lobster

📍 Location: Bar Harbor, ME
💰 Price: $29
🦞 Best For: A classic roll near Acadia National Park

Not far from Abel’s is the Travelin Lobster! We were delighted when we found this shack on the side of the road.

The Travelin’ Lobster offers fresh, perfectly seasoned lobster rolls with an option for hot butter or mayo.

Their outdoor seating makes for a relaxing, laid-back experience after a day of hiking.

We went with the Hot Roll and paired that with two local Maine beers. It was a flawless day to sit outside and enjoy the fresh seafood.

7. Pemaquid Seafood

📍 Location: New Harbor, ME
💰 Price: $26
🦞 Best For: A lobster roll after a beach day

Whether you are getting fresh oysters in Damariscotta or enjoying a beach day at Pemaquid Beach, stop at Pemaquid Seafood.

This lobster roll earns a spot on the list thanks to its fresh, salty flavor, dressed with a little bit of mayonnaise.

You can also get it hot if you prefer. My favorite part of this lobster roll was the bun; it had a hint of garlic and was perfectly crispy.

I love having a beach day in Maine during the summer. Here are The Best Beaches In Maine For A Beach Day

8. Eventide Oyster Co.

📍 Location: Portland, ME
💰 Price: $19
🦞 Best For: A modern twist on a lobster roll

Eventide is known for its Brown Butter Lobster Roll, which is small but packed with flavor.

Instead of a traditional bun, they serve their lobster on a steamed Asian-style bun, giving it a completely unique taste.

It’s unique and packed with flavor! It is tiny and is just a few bites long, but the flavor is explosive.

Visiting Eventide is not the same as going to one of the shacks; it is a complete dining experience.

Many come here for a full dinner and pair it with one of their creative cocktails.

9. Sprague’s Lobster

📍 Location: Wiscasset, ME
💰 Price: $29
🦞 Best For: Great alternative to Red’s Eats

Located right across from Red’s Eats, Sprague’s Lobster is a fantastic choice if you’re not up for the long wait.

Their lobster rolls are generous, fresh, and served with classic New England flavors.

I got a lobster roll paired with corn on the cob, and both were delicious!

Many will come here if the Red’s Eats line is too long. The lobster is just as fresh, but the portions are smaller.

I recommend trying Sprague and Red’s for a lobster roll duo.

10. Bite into Maine

📍 Location: Cape Elizabeth & Portland, ME
💰 Price: $26
🦞 Best For: Unique lobster roll flavors

Bite into Maine offers different styles of lobster rolls, including traditional Maine-style, Connecticut (hot butter), curry, wasabi, and even chipotle.

Their food truck near Portland Head Light is the perfect spot for lunch with a view.

Visit their food truck at Allagash Brewing in Portland, Maine. Allagash offers some of the best craft beer in Maine.  

11. The Lobster Shack At Two Lights

📍 Location: Cape Elizabeth, ME
💰 Price: $28
🦞 Best For: Oceanfront lobster rolls

Located near Two Lights State Park, this shack sits right on the cliffs, giving you unmatched ocean views while you eat. T

Their Lobster Roll Boat includes a pickle and chips, making it the perfect seaside meal.

The Lobster Shack at Two Lights is an award-winning restaurant that has been a local landmark since the 1920s.

I got the Lobster Roll Boat, which had fresh lobster, a tangy sauce, lettuce, and a fresh pickle. It was soooo good, and the views made it taste even better!

Read about my visit, Here is Your Guide To The Lobster Shack At Two Lights!

12. The Highroller Lobster Company

📍 Location: Portland, ME
💰 Price: $17+
🦞 Best For: Creative lobster roll sauces

The Highroller Lobster Co. serves one of the best lobster rolls in Portland, Maine.

This spot offers unique twists on the traditional lobster roll, including custom sauces like lime mayo, roasted red pepper mayo, and even honey butter.

The lobster roll was delicious and packed with flavor. You can get a full-size or a half-size; the half-size is below.

I also tried some other fun entrees. You can read about that here: A Visit To The Highroller Lobster Co. In Portland, Maine

13. Marcel’s Submarine Shop

📍 Location: Boothbay Harbor, ME
💰 Price: $20
🦞 Best For: Affordable and fresh

In Boothbay Harbor, Marcel’s is one of my favorite places to have a lobster roll.

This sub shop has a delicious sub menu with freshly baked bread and various toppings. It is also one of the most affordable lobster rolls in Maine!

I had to try the Lobster Roll, which was so fresh and delicious. It has a lobster claw, knuckle, tail, lettuce, and mayo; for only $20, it was super affordable for Maine.

Make sure to try one of Marcel’s beautifully constructed subs, too!

Hidden in the back of Marcel’s is my favorite speakeasy in Maine! Read About This Boothbay Speakeasy!

14. Brunswick Diner

📍 Location: Brunswick, ME
💰 Price: $30
🦞 Best For: A classic diner-style lobster roll with all the fixings

I wasn’t expecting a diner to serve one of the best lobster rolls in Maine, but Brunswick Diner completely blew me away.

This spot has been around for 74 years, and after tasting Miss B’s Maine Lobster Roll, I can tell they know exactly what they’re doing.

The lobster was lightly tossed with mayo and served on a buttery griddled bun with bibb lettuce, fries, coleslaw, and fresh lemon.

It was simple, fresh, and full of flavor—everything a lobster roll should be.

I paired it with one of their Bloody Marys, which turned out to be one of the best I’ve ever had.

Want to see more pics of my meal here? Read The Brunswick Diner: The Most Authentic Old-time Diner In Maine.

15. Bar Harbor Lobster Pound

📍 Location: Bar Harbor, ME
💰 Price: $30
🦞 Best For: A lobster roll with homemade garlic aioli sauce

I found Bar Harbor Lobster Pound while visiting Acadia National Park, and it quickly became a favorite.

I ordered their House Roll, packed with fresh lobster tossed in homemade garlic aioli.

Served on a toasted bun with homemade chips. The garlicky richness made it unforgettable.

For the full Maine experience, pair it with their Blueberry Wine—it’s the perfect complement to this coastal feast.

Want more information? Read Bar Harbor Lobster Pound: A New Lobster Roll Shack!

16. Luke’s Lobster

📍 Location: Portland, ME
💰 Price: $39 (for Lobster Roll Flight)
🦞 Best For: Lobster roll flight

Luke’s Lobster, located at the end of Portland Pier, serves up some of the best lobster rolls in Maine.

But what really sets them apart is their Lobster Roll Trio.

I couldn’t decide on just one, so I got the flight, which included lemon butter, spicy honey butter, and truffle butter rolls, served with chips and a pickle.

The truffle butter roll was my favorite—rich, flavorful, and unforgettable.

If you love trying new flavors, this is the spot for you!

I loved this lobster roll so much that I added it to my A Foodie’s Guide to Eating Your Way Through Portland, Maine

17. Horn Run Brewing

📍 Location: Eastport, ME
💰 Price: $25
🦞 Best For: Lobster rolls with a craft beer pairing

One of my favorite lobster rolls is located in eastern Maine in the small town of Eastport at Horn Run Brewing.

Their lobster roll comes on a buttery, griddled bun, topped with chopped chives and crisp lettuce.

I paired mine with a beer flight, and it was the perfect match.

If you’re visiting Eastport, this spot is a must-try!

I would suggest coming here when visiting Eastport. I put together a list of list Best Things to Do in Eastport, Maine.

18. The Buoy Shack

Location: Kittery, ME
💰 Price: $26
🦞 Best For: Lobster rolls in southern Maine

The Buoy Shack serves one of the best lobster rolls in southern Maine. Just head to Kittery near Portsmouth, New Hampshire.

Sitting right on the Piscataqua River with views of downtown Portsmouth, this open-air shack delivers locally caught lobster rolls served on buttery brioche.

Whether you’re sipping a tropical cocktail by the water or chowing down on fresh Maine Lobster, The Buoy Shack nails the seaside vibe!

Also, if you plan to drive the five minutes to Portsmouth afterward, check out my Portsmouth Foodie Guide: Best Eats on a Self-Guided Food Tour

19. Lone Pine Brewing (Old Orchard Beach)

Location: Old Orchard Beach
💰 Price: $32
🦞 Best For: Beach Day Lobster Rolls!

If you’re looking for the best lunch spot in Old Orchard Beach, head to Lone Pine Brewing.

They offer a variety of lobster rolls, but the Lemon Dill is my absolute favorite!

It featured cold lobster tossed in a house-made lemon dill aioli with fresh greens.

It was refreshing, flavorful, and packed with fresh Maine lobster. It was perfect during our sunny beach day!

It’s the perfect combo with one of their local craft beers. They also have another location in Portland if you’re exploring the area beyond the beach.

20. Young’s Lobster Pound

Location: Belfast
💰 Price: $32
🦞 Best For: Unique take on a classic lobster roll!

Young’s Lobster Pound in Belfast serves up one of the freshest, no-frills lobster rolls on the coast.

The lobster is tender and chilled, piled high on a soft bun with just the right amount of crunch from crisp lettuce—simple, classic, and all about the seafood.

It’s a BYOB spot with amazing waterfront views of Belfast Harbor.

If you’re feeling adventurous, they also offer all-you-can-eat rock crab (yes, there’s hammer smashing involved).

Here is Why You Need to Smash Crabs at Young’s Lobster Pound in Belfast!

21. Five Island’s Lobster Co.

Location: Georgetown
💰 Price: $32
🦞 Best For: Fresh Maine Lobster roll with breathtaking views.

I finally got the chance to visit the famous Five Islands Lobster Co. in Georgetown. This place gets packed in the summer, and for good reason. The shack sits right on the harbor, giving you endless water views while you eat.

The lobster roll itself was unbelievably fresh—you can literally taste the ocean in every bite. I also loved the crisp lettuce and the perfectly toasted bun.

I understand now why it’s constantly rated one of the best lobster rolls in Maine!

You get a side of chips as well! If you are coming here, you should also try the Jenny Sandwich, which has both haddock and crab cakes.

Also, it’s BYOB, so bring your favorite summer beverage.

FAQs About Maine Lobster Rolls 🦞

What makes Maine lobster rolls the best?

• Fresh, sweet lobster from the cold Atlantic
• Served warm with butter or chilled with mayo
• Always on a perfectly toasted New England–style bun

Hot vs. Cold Lobster Rolls

• Hot (Connecticut-style): Warm lobster tossed in butter, served in a griddled bun
• Cold (Maine-style): Chilled lobster with mayo, sometimes celery or lemon for crunch
• Both are delicious—it’s all about personal preference!

How much do lobster rolls cost in 2026?

• Expect to pay $30–$40 per roll
• Prices vary by season, demand, and lobster catch size

What does “market price” mean?

• The menu price changes daily based on the cost of fresh lobster
• Always ask if you want to know the current rate before ordering

Explore More Of Maine!

If you are visiting Portland, you should read my A Foodie’s Guide to Eating Your Way Through Portland, Maine!

If you are a hot dog lover like me, you have to check out Top Hot Dog Spots in Maine You Need to Try!

Want more Maine foodie hotspots? Check out all my favorite Maine Foodie Locations.

I also recommend reading my guide on The Best Cocktail Bars In Maine!

Want to have a beach day? Here are the Best Beaches In Maine For A Beach Day

Visiting Acadia? Read all of my Acadia National Park Travel Guides!

Don’t forget to try the weird yet delicious Lobster Ice Cream in Bar Harbor.

Or, simply browse my entire collection of Maine Travel Guides!