Yes, there are at least two schools of lobster-roll preparation. Connecticut-style lobster roll is served warm and soaked with butter. In Maine, the lobster is cold and mixed with a little mayo. Some cooks like to add celery salt, paprika, diced celery, or lemon. Others keep it simple, with the lightest touch of butter or mayo.
Note that many – but not all – of the restaurants listed below are open seasonally – summer into early fall -- and the setting is rustic, meaning picnic tables outdoors on docks and marinas. Many do not serve much in the way of side dishes or desserts or alcoholic beverages, but offer a BYOB invitation. Lobster shacks do not take reservations. Phone ahead if you might want to stop at the beverage store.
The age old question! Connecticut-style lobster rolls are served warm with melted butter, while Maine-style rolls are served cold with a light touch of mayonnaise. Both styles use fresh lobster meat and are typically served in a split-top New England hot dog bun.
New England is full of beloved lobster shacks and seafood spots. Our readers have shared their favorites from Maine, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, and beyond—check the list below to see the top local picks.
Are lobster shacks in New England open year-round?
Many of the most popular lobster roll spots are seasonal, typically open from late spring through early fall. Always check their website or social media before heading out.
Most traditional lobster shacks do not take reservations. Seating is usually first-come, first-served at picnic tables, and waits can be long on sunny weekends.
While lobster itself is naturally gluten-free, the traditional bun may not be. A few spots offer gluten-free rolls or lettuce wraps upon request. Always inform the staff about food allergies before ordering.
Most lobster rolls are served simply—with a bag of chips, coleslaw, or a pickle. Some places also offer clam chowder, corn on the cob, or fries, but the focus is usually on the lobster.
152 Commerce Street Clinton, CT Phone: 860-669-2005
63 Salem Street Boston, MA Phone: 617-742-3474
345 Thames Street Newport, RI Phone: 401-536-9985
Route 1 Portsmouth, NH Phone: 603-433-3339
HyLine Landing, 230 Ocean Street Hyannis, MA Phone: 508-775-8800
448 Hope St Bristol, RI Phone: 401-396-5820
4580 Route 6 North Eastham, MA Phone: 508-255-3009
45 Barcliff Avenue Ext. Chatham, MA Phone: 508-945-3474
1447 Five Islands Road Georgetown, ME Phone: 207-371-2990
16 Chauncey Creek Road Kittery Point, ME Phone: 207-439-1030
117 Pearl Street Noank, CT Phone: 860-536-7719
15 Town Pier Plymouth, MA Phone: 508-746-0261
357 Sesuit Neck Road Dennis, MA Phone: 508-385-6134
629 Succotash Road Wakefield, RI Phone: 401-783-4202
Route 1 Wells, ME Phone: 207-646-4441
5 Portland Pier Portland, ME Phone: 207-772-4828
108 Perkins Cove Road Ogunquit, ME Phone: 207-251-4217