There is no shortage of places to grab a lobster roll in Portland – but these are our top picks!
01. // PICNIC STYLE AT BITE INTO MAINE
The two most popular rolls at Bite into Maine are their classics – the Connecticut Style (just warm butter on top) and the Maine Style (mayo & chives) – but we always go for the Picnic Style: a toasty buttery bun delicately filled with a small layer of cole slaw, and then a big delicious mess of lobster that gets dusted in celery salt. And topped with more butter. You can find Bite into Maine at Fort Williams Park, Allagash Brewing Co. at Industrial Way and at their Commissary in Scarborough. Picnicking at Fort Williams Park has the added benefit of gorgeous views of Portland Head Light and the surrounding ocean.
02. // BROWN BUTTER LOBSTER ROLL AT EVENTIDE
One of the most famous variations on a lobster roll here in Portland, this squishy steamed bun is piled high with freshly picked lobster and chopped chives. Best paired with one of Eventide’s signature cocktails, the Twisted Tea. Getting a table at Eventide can be tricky so we recommend adding your name to their waitlist early and exploring Old Port as you wait for a spot.
03. // HIGHROLLER’S LOBSTER ROLL WITH LIME & JALAPENO MAYO
Highroller’s lobster roll is 4 oz of Maine claw and knuckle meat in a freshly baked brioche roll plus your choice of sauce (the lime & jalapeno mayo or lobster ghee are our top picks). This seaside classic is best accompanied by a very refreshing frozen margarita.
04. // LUKE’S TRIO AT LUKE’S LOBSTER
Luke’s Lobster is still relatively new to the Portland dining scene but that doesn’t make it any less delicious. With a location at the end of the pier in Old Port you can enjoy a side of views with your food. Luke’s Trio is a great option for the indecisive or the one who just wants to eat it all – a 1/2 lobster roll, a 1/2 shrimp roll and a 1/3 crab roll are served up with chips and a pickle for lunch or dinner.