Where to Get the Best Lobster Roll in Portland, Maine – 2025 Picks

If you’re planning a visit to Portland, Maine, or just craving the perfect taste of the Atlantic, there’s one local dish you can’t miss: the iconic lobster roll.

Whether you prefer it warm with butter or chilled with mayo, Portland is packed with legendary spots and hidden gems serving up some of the best lobster rolls in the country.

Here’s your 2025 guide to the best lobster rolls in Portland, Maine — ranked for flavor, freshness, and that true Maine experience.

1. Eventide Oyster Co.

• 86 Middle St, Portland, ME

A must-visit for seafood lovers, Eventide’s brown butter lobster roll is small but intensely flavorful. Served on a soft bao-style bun, this roll has won awards and made national “best of” lists.

2. Bite Into Maine

• Fort Williams Park + Food Truck locations

If you’re looking for variety, this place is unmatched. They offer multiple styles — Maine (mayo), Connecticut (butter), and picnic (with coleslaw) — using fresh, local lobster.

3. Highroller Lobster Co.

• 104 Exchange St, Portland, ME

A modern, funky twist on a seafood shack. Choose your roll base (toasted brioche), toppings (charred pineapple, jalapeño mayo), and customize your lobster experience.

4. The Lobster Shack at Two Lights

• 225 Two Lights Rd, Cape Elizabeth, ME (15 min from downtown)

For a classic Maine experience with ocean views, this old-school shack is unbeatable. Their buttery lobster rolls and seaside picnic tables create the ultimate summer vibe.

5. Luke’s Lobster Portland Pier

• 60 Portland Pier, Portland, ME

Overlooking the working waterfront, Luke’s serves a chilled lobster roll packed with claw and knuckle meat, lightly dressed in mayo and lemon butter.

What Makes a Great Lobster Roll?

A top-tier lobster roll in Portland typically includes:

• Fresh-picked local lobster (claw, tail, and knuckle)
• A toasted split-top bun or brioche
• Your choice of dressing — either warm drawn butter (Connecticut-style) or chilled mayo (Maine-style)
• Minimal fillers — it’s all about the lobster!

Pro Tip for Travelers

Visit during June–September for the freshest catch.
Check food truck locations in advance — especially for Bite Into Maine.
Order early at popular spots like Eventide — they get busy!

Final Bite

When it comes to lobster rolls, Portland, Maine is the real deal. Whether you’re a purist or love a twist on the classic, this coastal city offers something for every lobster lover. Just follow your appetite and maybe… bring a bib.

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