Top Iconic Lobster Rolls in New England

When we think of a New England summer, we think of lobster rolls. Our summer is never complete without at least one lobster roll (realistically that number is a lot higher come August), though we think you should probably have eleven. Whether you swear by warm butter or cold mayo, every coastal town seems to have a favorite local joint. From legendary roadside shacks and dockside seafood markets to iconic waterfront restaurants, we’ve rounded up a list of the top 11 iconic lobster rolls that are worth the drive, the wait, and every buttery bite. Grab your beach bag and plenty of napkins. It’s time to hit the road.

The lobster roll from Liv’s Shack is our favorite lobster roll in Connecticut, and we'll confidently stand by that. Ranked the No. 1 bite on our Top Connecticut Bites of 2025 list, this Connecticut-style roll is served warm on a buttery toasted bun and finished with their signature sherry butter sauce that takes it to another level. If you're really hungry, splurge and spend $60 on the oversized version with lobster meat that's practically spilling out of the roll. For us, this is proof that a hot butter lobster roll will always beat mayo.

The Seafood Shanty serves one of the most overstuffed lobster rolls we've ever seen. Located in Buzzards Bay, right off Route 6, this roll is packed with so much fresh lobster salad that it barely fits in the bun! Thanks to Wishbone Kitchen, we now know to order an extra bun on the side because there's enough lobster to make two rolls from one. Made with simple, fresh lobster and mayo, it's a no-frills classic that definitely gives you the best bang for your buck.

Many say the lobster roll at Red’s is the best in Maine, and after trying it, we understand why people are willing to wait in line for up to two hours. This legendary seafood shack has earned countless “best in Maine” titles. Their signature roll skips the mayo and comes with warm melted butter on the side, making it a dream roll for butter lovers. Packed with two lobster claws and a whole split tail, there’s so much fresh lobster in this roll that you can bqarely see the roll underneath. Bonus points for also offering what might just be the best gluten-free lobster roll we’ve yet to try.

Footbridge Lobster is where we run to as soon as we cross the state line. Located in Ogunquit, Maine, they’re serving a $39 meal deal including a lobster roll, chips, a homemade ice cream sandwich, and a drink. What else could we ask for?!

Bite into Maine has a few locations, but do yourself a favor and go to the Fort Williams Park location in Cape Elizabeth. Their Maine-style roll is our go=to order. It’s messy, delicious, and as simple as that.

Young's Lobster Pound is the definition of a classic dock-and-dine spot. Located on the waterfront in Belfast, Maine, it offers stunning views and plenty of benches overlooking the water. Their lobster roll sits on a warm toasted bun with cold lobster salad, mayo, and crisp lettuce that adds the perfect crunch. Simple, scenic, and seriously delicious, Young’s is a stop worth making while driving along the Maine coast.

McLoon’s Lobster Shack absoultely lives up to the hype. Dubbed the “best lobster roll in Maine” by many, this roll is made with lobster caught daily, making every bite taste incredibly fresh. The roll is dressed with just the right amount of mayo, served with butter on the side for the perfect balance, and tucked into a buttery, perfectly griddled bun that practically melts in your mouth. In a state known for incredible lobster rolls, this one truly stands out and is well worth the drive up the coast.

Representing our home state (we promise we're not biased!), Lobster Landing truly deserves the hype. At peak times, you'll likely have to wait in line, but it's well worth it. This no-frills shack has been serving one of Connecticut's most iconic lobster rolls for over a century. Tender lobster meat is piled high onto a perfectly toasted bun for a simple, refreshing Connecticut-style classic. If you're feeling extra hungry, dip your roll into a cup of their lobster bisque. Trust us, it makes an already incredible roll even better.

Rye Harbor Lobster Pound serves some of the freshest lobster we’ve ever had, and you can taste the difference in every bite. Their classic roll is packed with sweet, fresh lovster, but it doesn’t stop there. The fluffy clam shower, topped with generous chunks of lobster, is reason enough to make the trip. This has been one of Sara’s favorite seafood spots since moving to New Hampshire, and after just one visit, you will understand why.

Eventide Oyster Co. puts a unique spin on the classic lobster roll, and we're totally here for it! With locations in Portland, Maine and the Fenway in Boston, their famous brown butter lobster roll is served on a soft, steamed bun that literally melts in your mouth. Tossed in rich brown butter, it's packed with flavor in every bite. The rolls are on the smaller side, so you'll probably want to order more than one!

The lobster roll from Walter’s Deli is tasty, affordable, and perfect for lunch on the beach. At $28, it’s the cheapest lobster roll on the island and nothing short of awesome. It’s packed with lobster and lettuce, all tucked into one of the butteriest rolls we’ve ever tried. And yes, that does make all the difference.