The best lobster rolls we've ever had! (And we've been eating them out whole lives). Plus super-friendly service and perfect chowder. See below for more: Jess greeted us at the door like she couldn't be more thrilled to see us, which we appreciated because it was an hour before closing. We learned that it was the "soft opening" for the season (April 31) and the wave of invited local regulars had just left. Jess was attentive, welcoming and helpful with some things we weren't used to seeing on the menu. The dining room and lounge has a classic lobster pound feel but updated with fresh upholstery, decor and comfortable seating. Solid wine selection and a balance of domestic beer classics and solid Maine brews on tap and in cans/bottles. Jess poured a great Mai Tai. Classic thin clam chowder was brimming with whole clams and potatoes. I barely had room for oyster crackers. The broth was perfect. Quahog was a thicker style and chock full of hearty goodness. Complimentary corn bread served ahead of the meal. The lobster rolls were dynamite! Best we've ever had. We opted for warm with drawn butter style, served on buttery grilled rolls. Onion rings were solid. Perfectly breaded and crunchy. Fries were seasoned with a touch of salt and were fresh. Can't recommend this place enough and we will be back!!! read more

Love this place 3rd time here Jenna was our server excellent hospitality! New booths possibly? very comfortable sharp looking love the art and decor in here, clean restaurant friendly staff Delicious cocktails Yacht rock playing Food handcut fries Fish chowder great amount of potato to meat to broth ratio 10/10 Crab Dip 10/10 Corn bread warm and delicious with butter Blackened haddock tacos perfectly seasoned comes with 2 Lime crema, pico de gallo read more

McLaughlin's Lobster Shack - Crab dip - Seafood Near Me - Lincolnville, Maine

We have been coming to the Lobster Shack for over four years now. We lived the old location! Yet unfortunately due to the hurricane it was at a loss. We dined there two years ago with family and were very satisfied. This year we stopped in and were and were more on the disappointed side. My husband ordered the Clam Basket, he said very little flavor , The onion rings were bland as well he mentioned ( Crispy but bland) The oysters on the half shell though were very fresh and we were satisfied with those. My husband had the coleslaw and he said it tasted " off"". I had the Lobster Stew ( which was very good I will add.) The cornbread was very dry and lacked flavor. I ordered a Shrimp Roll thinking it would be more like a lobster roll with mayo , they were frozen fried shrimp on a toasted bun ( very dry no tarter sauce , just cocktail sauce ) and French Fries that were definitely frozen not hand cut . The atmosphere is good , there is a very nice view of Lincolnville Beach. The service was fantastic, our waitress had a great personality and was cheerful and accommodating! Though we have been coming here for a number of years , I do not see a return in the future unfortunately. read more

Great place! I started with the Clam Chowder, it was awesome. My son and I both had the Lobster Roll, and they were fantastic. Our server (Brenden?) was very nice and attentive too! read more

Wonderful lobster meal...huge chunks of lobster meat in a butter roll and the full lobster was cut so that eating is was super easy. The service was perfect. The view from upstairs was beautiful. read more

McLaughlin's Lobster Shack - View...I should have taken good pictures - Seafood Near Me - Lincolnville, Maine

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Shack Attack Family-owned restaurant that's been slinging some of Maine's finest foods since 1956. They've recently moved from a smaller location near the ocean, to a bit more inland until much bigger digs. The Good: *Outdoor seating *Friendly service *Local beers on-tap, as well as a full bar. *Private parking lot *Good meaty and tasty lobstah roll. My only complaint was the fries seemed frozen and not very good ones. *Quahog Clam Chowdah was fantastic and maybe the best one we tried on our trip to Maine. The Meh: *No longer oceanside, but they are adjacent to an estuary of sorts. *Seasonal business so check to make sure they're open; usually May - October is the general timeframe, but don't quote me on that. The Ugly: *That fried Seafood Platter was good but eventually all that fried food starts to kinda taste the same. Conclusion: Great lobstah roll with friendly service and in an interesting location. read more

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They've moved up the street a bit from their old location at the Islesboro ferry. Now there is great indoor seating, a full menu of seafood and nice parking. Order and pay at the downstairs counter/bar, get your table number and pick your seat. Food is delivered to your table. I had the haddock tacos and they were delicious. Scallop basket was also very good. High marks for the onion rings. Great view from the second floor seating area! read more

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Stopped in for takeout lunch with the wife yesterday. She had a cold lobster roll, I went with the haddock. Lobster roll was excellent, haddock was alright (they forgot to throw tarter sauce in the the takeout bag). My wife wanted coleslaw with her lunch, but it wasn't included in the meal, so that set me back another 5 bucks. We both liked the coleslaw, but the fries would've been a lot better if they had been hand cut instead of frozen. Not overly impressed with our lunch yesterday, other than the lobster roll. That's it, not much more to say. read more

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This is a cute little lobster shack near the Lincolnville beach. They have a great variety of seafood choices to choose from. Our clams and lobster were fresh. The atmosphere was clean and well kept. They have a view of the harbor but depending where you sit you may or may not be able to enjoy the view. I thought the prices were a little bit high but this is currently the best place in Lincolnville to get seafood... read more

McLaughlin's is the real deal. Right on the working waterfront, you can go around back and see the lobsters fresh from the ocean. The interior is exactly what you would expect, picnic red-and-white plastic tablecloths, fish nets, tiki lights, sea captain sculptures, etc. The food comes out pretty fast. We got the lobster rolls and fries, cuz what else are you going to get? I was instructed that the lobster chowder is an East Coast thing that isn't like the cioppino that I love from SF, so I skipped it. The buns had that lovely buttery crunch followed by softness, and the lobster was incredible. It wasn't buttery or mayo-y, both of which I only want in small quantities. You get a lot of chunks of lobster, it was super delicious and simple and perfect. The fries were fries, and the coleslaw wasn't very good, kinda watery. But you're here for the lobster roll! read more

McLaughlin's Lobster Shack - The view from McLaughlin's. - Seafood Near Me - Lincolnville, Maine

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This place is food deserves a 4 to 5 star rating rather than the 3 1/2. I don't know what's wrong with people, but this is a lobster pound crab shack. You must visit in Maine. read more

On the upside this place has a great queer o meter score - the staff was super nice. 10! On the downside - there was a little bit not too great with the dinner. What we got: shore dinner - lobster, steamers, fish chowder, fries, cornbread, and Cole slaw. Side order onion rings 1 bottle water $75 plus tip It was about $15 more than we paid the day before and the lobster was 1.15 lbs not 1.25. The lobster and steamers were over boiled about 3 min too long and sadly they were on the chewy side. Don't get me wrong, I ate it but it had def hit the start of bouncy. The chowder is good - it's the thin kind so don't be expecting a creamy NE kind. It's a thinner stewish kind but flavorful. The cornbread was a corner piece and most of it dry - the flavour was good! I'm guessing the middle pieces were great. The French fries and Cole slaw were also good! They use hunts ketchup which I don't like, but that's a me thang. Finally the onion rings - they were hot and crispy but that's where the compliments end. I found them bland and uneventful, which was too and bc they were hot and crispy! So much potential. Well all in all I wouldn't go back. Maybe it was an off night but for $75 I expect to fully enjoy 85%+ of a meal. This one fell short for me. Cheers! read more

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We have been big fans of the Shack in Lincolnville because of the food and the old location. We were saddened to see it destroyed by Hurricane Helene but happy to see the move and reopening. Their fried scallops and fried clams were the best and always fresh and breaded by them. Our first trip back to the new location was a total disappointment as everything looked and tasted like a frozen premade institution style food service. Not good!!! It doesn't make sense to me...... we won't be back until we hear other wise. read more

Order the friend clams and be happy all day!! They had just opened and let us take our high noons and clams outside for takeout. We loved it. Will be back and highly recommend. read more

Really great spot , nice water views and great staff . The baked haddock was cooked perfectly generous portion and so flavorful. The fried haddock was just as good crispy outside, flaky and flavorful inside. The onion rings were a nice addition to lunch but there were plenty of thick fries with the basket. The mushrooms were good, but did not seem to be made there. if I had to choose definitely would have gone with the onion rings. The coleslaw was a little better than average. I would most definitely get the baked haddock again or try the lobster which are in tanks on the deck. Nice spot not cheap but the portions are very generous so you get your money's worth Nd very nice to sit and watch the boats go by. read more

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Disclaimer: This review is from the perspective of a 100% non-seafood eater. I give them 4 stars because everyone else in my party of 6 raved about the freshness of the lobster and the haddock they all eagerly consumed. I give it a 1 star for my order of the bacon cheeseburger with onion rings. I was once again very disappointed in how seafood restaurants serve a basic burger. If you are going to offer it as a menu item, please learn how to cook and serve it properly. It was cooked so long there was no moisture left in the beef at all. And it was served on a dry bun with no sauce of any kind, no lettuce, no tomato, no pickles, nothing. There were ketchup packets in a bin but it didn't help. If I am ever in this amazing area again, I will drop my group here and go find someplace else for me. read more

McLaughlin's Lobster Shack - The Lobster's Demise - Seafood Near Me - Lincolnville, Maine

Service was great on a fairly busy evening. Wife had the large lobster roll with butter and said it was tasty. For the price we felt it could have a bit more lobster in it. I had the blackened haddock and it was excellent, mashed potato was very good and hot corn on the cob was excellent also. This restaurant was rebuilt due to storm damage at the former location ( still a gift shop across the street). They did a good job with the rebuild. Enjoyed our dinner here. read more

Great lobster rolls and onion rings. Take out as well as dine in Friendly service

We were lucky enough to stay at an air bnb directly in front of this great place. Directions are simple enough-you walk through, a nice person takes your order, you go outside and find a table in the picnic area overlooking the water (or choose a table inside if you'd prefer), and then they call your number when your order is ready! Lobster roll was the best we've had on our vacation and the ala carts lobster was great as well! read more

McLaughlin's Lobster Shack - That's a mighty big lobster! - Seafood Near Me - Lincolnville, Maine

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One of the great old Maine restaurants, excellent service and atmosphere. Beach views out the windows as well. Can't say enough good things about the blackened halibut. Highly recommend this to anyone looking for midcoast hospitality! read more

I grew up here in Maine I know what fresh local lobster takes like & was very disappointed with the lobster role here !!! Not much lobster for the large roll and not fresh no tail meat very rubbery like ! My husband tried seafood Alfredo & the scallops were also rubbery ! Shame as this place sits on prime real estate too read more

Yes, they are open for the season. Delicious steamers and savory clam broth.. Always a welcoming atmosphere.. read more

McLaughlin's Lobster Shack - Seafood Near Me - Lincolnville, Maine

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Fish tacos my husband ordered, were amazing! Fries not homemade but Sysco does it all around Maine. Service, a little slow but busy and received personal service with a smile. A good job for a younger person being introduced to the restaurant industry. However, I ordered fried clams and specifically asked if they were served in batter or crumbs. I was told batter, nope! Small portion in crumbs, cole slaw wonderful in hindsight However if the young gentleman understood his own menu I would have chosen some else. i We asked our gentleman server for a hamburger for our dog, to take our a. Bad mistake, he ordered us an 18$ plate. My dog did not need fries, nor a bun with onion and tomatoes, cmon we asked for a hamburger, he could have spoken to a manger in regards to what we asked for. On top of it all, when we received our check he added a haddock platter to our bill,. Strange but true, attention to detail is very important, Very little apology. Drinks were weak, Most of all staff were friendly and welcoming. Loved the view and down home town setting. Opps ! and forgot we were not offered dessert because it was close to 8pm. There were others still eating dinner. We were not gonna order, however could have been offered My suggestions, if you are goign, inventory hire young individuals, start in March. Require Serv-Safe on their dollar if they really want to work, I think its online now. Make sure they absolutely memorize the entire menu, including ingredients. Sho9uld be tested. Cross train give the newer employees a opportunity to attempt the line, stock, clean bathrooms serve., And a little information about ordering and the importance read more

Restaurant moved across the street. Still great lobster roll and haddock! Had ordered take out for the family and pick up was easy. Very friendly and patient staff. Led lit bar was a nice touch to the indoor scene. read more

When in Maine, you must have a lobster roll. There are plenty of options to get one along the coastline, and I chose this place based on past reviews and location. The lobster was delicious, but having to "dress" the lobster roll yourself was a bit overwhelming for someone who isn't a local and used to doing so. Fries and slaw, standard sides for a lobster roll, were just average. And it was pricy, although it appears to be the going price for a lobster roll. read more

Awesome again. Usually get a lobster dinner. This time had a lobster roll. Beer served here! Very nice view and location.

The lobster rolls did not disappoint. It's a little pricey but well worth the meal you get. The fries were very good as well as the coleslaw. highly recommend. read more

We go to McLaughlin's at least three or four times every year when we are vacationing. Their seafood is fresh and delicious, menu is big and they have a lot of outdoor and indoor seating with a great waterfront view. read more

TLDR: Oysters and lobsters! Great spot to eat on the way up to Acadia! My favorite thing about this place is that it doesn't just have lobster but oysters as well. Located right on the water next to the beach the view is good, and food is good too. read more

Disappointed. Clam Chowder was watery and the worst that I have ever tasted. The lobster was forgettable.

The lobster tacos were delicious! service was great. We arrived close to closing time and never felt rushed.

This place proves that you cannot f*ck up fried food. Good oysters. Cold beer. Good view. Life should be so simple. They call your number - you eat - life is good. Great place to have a cold one before heading to islesboro... read more

Unbelievable experience. Best lobster roll I've ever had. Roll was perfectly buttered and toasted, lobster was fresh and great sized portion. Eaten out back by the water. 10/10 cole slaw 10/10 lobster roll 10/10 French fries 10/10 atmosphere read more

McLaughlin's Lobster Shack - Hot lobster roll platter eaten out back on the water! - Seafood Near Me - Lincolnville, Maine

Good atmosphere. Lobsters fresh. A tad pricey and a pinch more spices would be nice. Overall hit the spot. read more

McLaughlin's Lobster Shack - Seafood Near Me - Lincolnville, Maine

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We had a yummy dinner here while on vacation. We ordered the haddock platter, haddock sandwich, fried clams, sea food chowder, and 2 beers. It came to about $85. The menu pricing online is a little outdated. You order inside and then can sit inside or out. Very friendly people working and fresh tasting seafood. We enjoyed it! read more

McLaughlin's Lobster Shack - Haddock sandwich, haddock platter, fried clams, sea food chowder - Seafood Near Me - Lincolnville, Maine

Lobster shack with wonderful view and location! Not GF friendly but can work around by opting out of the bun. Lobster was fresh and they were able to serve it hot with butter vs the lobster salad. Burger and hot dogs also good! Will return to enjoy the outside tables when warmer! read more

Every year before we cross the ferry over to Islesboro we have a tradition of getting lobster rolls, and they are always amazing. Billy the owner is awesome, my uncle worked for him years ago, and he's still there serving the best lobster rolls ever!!!! read more

McLaughlin's Lobster Shack - Seafood Near Me - Lincolnville, Maine

clean, warm, airy for April 20th. on the water. no paper menus, all on the overhead, order at the counter crab roll basket (the fries were VERY good)_ 1/2 pt clams.. corn meal was granular, did nothing for the fry.. low taste . very MEH onion. rings .. average, not much flavor, again, the breading was lacking $6 small order small cup of Cole slaw overpriced and everyone seems to sell this particular brand $3.25 Boston Lager, $7.50 all paper and plastic, all condiments and etc near the entry door.. lots of trash and I am starting to bristle when I see "TIP" for these kind of places where eI do all the work nothing great , two people lunch $70 (with tip, yes I did) fool me once ..... read more

Got a rec for this place at Cellardoor winery and glad we stopped. We split a crab salad sandwich plate (with fries and cole slaw) and a clam roll which was served on kind of a brioche bun so we mostly just ate the clams. These were not the best clams, just ok. But the crab was very tasty and the prices were in the $14-17 range so not bad. Really pretty view with lots of outdoor seating. Would return. read more

McLaughlin's Lobster Shack - Clams, crab salad and ocean. - Seafood Near Me - Lincolnville, Maine

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Nice place for lobster in the rough right on the water. I got fried clams and DH got fish and chips. Nice light batter and brioche roll. Million dollar views. Reasonable prices. read more

McLaughlin's Lobster Shack - Waterfront tables - Seafood Near Me - Lincolnville, Maine