This Regional Restaurant Is One Of Maine's Favorite Places To Dine
By Andrea Verschuyl|Published December 07, 2023
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Andrea Verschuyl
Author
Having grown up in Washington, Andrea is a self-admitted Pacific Northwest snob. In their opinion, there's simply nowhere else in the country with the Evergreen State's beauty. After attending university, Andrea devoted themselves to writing full-time. They're thrilled to represent Washington for Only In Your State while pursuing other professional and personal projects. They currently reside in Olympia, where they enjoy leaf-blowing their yard, perfecting homemade ramen, cuddling with their three tiny dogs, and feeding their pufferfish, Sea Biscuit.
In a review of the Pine Tree State’s regional foods, we’d be hard-pressed to find something more iconic than the lobster roll. Though do-ups of this classic dish vary from cook to cook, there’s no denying the hold this zesty, rich, and oh-so-good sandwich has on both Mainers and out-of-state visitors. For some of the best lobster rolls in Maine, check out Lobster Shack.
With a scant population of just over 1,500, Ogunquit is a bonafide resort town. Heavily featured in national travel publications, the allure of this small Maine community isn't fading any time soon, and modern Ogunquit is a favored destination of millions.
Modern beach-goers aren't the first to appreciate this area's staggering beauty. Ogunquit means "beautiful place by the sea" in the local Abenaki language.
The history of Lobster Shack mirrors Ogunquit's tourist trajectory. Its present-day site was first developed in 1900 as a lobstermen's shack, housing ropes, traps, and buoys.
Once again, updates to the menu were gradual. It wasn't until a major storm in 1977 necessitated significant repairs that Lobster Shack truly took on its contemporary look and began offering its now-classic fare.
You'll find this beloved local joint still oozes retro charm. Though the interior is clean and updated, Lobster Shack has wisely remained connected to its roots as a pared-back seafood spot.
Seasonal diners go wild for the Shack's menu, which still includes lobsters and steamers, but now also offers a variety of soups, sandwiches, and, of course, the legendary lobster roll.
Though Lobster Shack keeps things simple, it knows where to indulge in excess.
Laughter, steam, and butter are essential features of this local gem's atmosphere, keeping locals and tourists alike coming back year after year.
Though I'd never suggest forgoing the lobster roll, I'd recommend dabbling in the restaurant's original offerings in honor of the Shack's storied past.
