We really enjoyed the lobster roll kit sold on Gold Belly. Here In California, we rarely get fresh tasting lobster. Usually the freezing and shipping destroys the fresh taste. The lobster roll kit arrived well-packed, very cold, not frozen (we appreciated that the rolls were not refrigerated) tasted sweet and fresh, had ample perfectly cooked lobster, and a great mix of tails, claws, and knuckles. It tasted as though it had just come off the boat. and made a truly memorable meal. There is no wonder it has been rated as the best lobster roll in Maine. It was worth every penny. read more

Rating: 4.5 Came to try this place for punch as they are listed as top spot for their lobster roll. It's located at an island so you have to drive over a bridge to get there. It's a very nice area with water front, outdoor chairs and tables. Parkings are available at the site. Once we got there we went up to see place our order. They have an ice-cream shop next door, bathroom and hand washing area as well. We ordered their lobster roll and clam chowder. Once we ordered we grabbed one of the seat and waited for our order to arrive. Within 5minutes or so our order came out and waitress brought them to our table. Lobster roll came with side of mayo, butter, coleslaw and cape cod chips. Coleslaw and cape cod chips were nothing special. The lobster roll was pretty good. Lobster itself has faintly sweet flavor and was good without any butter or mayo. The bread was toasted well with lots of butter. Lobster roll was delicious. Clam chowder was pretty goof as well. Came with oyster crackers that you mix up which is standard. Good flavor. Service was good and fast. They do have some napkins and water self serve. Seats and tables were bit sticky so had to use some napkins to clean. Overall i liked the place. Quality and fresh lobster roll that is flavorful and not overwhelming with condiments. Clam chowder was good but i've had similar quality ones back in RI where i'm from. Price was ok i about $30 for one small ish lobster roll which is standard nowadays. If you want good lobster roll this is the place read more

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Again it's unclear if I'm rating their preparation or the local cuisine. As others have noted, it's an idyllic setting at the end of the road on a little island, with boats in the harbor. Very busy with tourists. Anyhow: grilled clams were very tasty and cooked perfectly--bit salty for my taste, but to be fair, they do come from saltwater. I found the steamed whole lobster to be ok but not spectacular. The nutcracker provided wasn't the best such tool I've had, but I won't hold that against them--I just didn't think the lobster compared in sweetness and juiciness to some of the better crabs I've had in Maryland. Whether that's their preparation, or lobster generally, who's to say! read more

We had the four pack lobster rolls shipped to us in Oregon. The buns were extremely small, so we ended up substituting those. The lobster was so chewy we ended up tossing at least 30% of it (it might have been more). McLoons lobster was horrible. We would have been better off buying frozen lobster locally. In decades, we've never had chewy lobster from our local market (Zupans). I honestly don't know how they have the rave reviews they do, unless they are filtering out the bad ones. I can't in good conscience recommend them at all. read more

Finally a warm day here in Maine, so made our first journey of the season to McLoos for the best lobster roll in Maine! Fresh from the waters off Spruce Head, simple Maine preparation, gorgeous views! read more

McLoons Lobster Shack - Seafood Near Me - South Thomaston, Maine

While making my way from Boston up to Acadia National Park, I decided to stop at McLoons lobster shack on a rainy Sunday afternoon. I thoroughly enjoyed how off the beaten path this lobster shack is; imagine going to the end of the map where land meets sea and that's where you will find this place. Despite the weather, it was still surprisingly pretty busy at the lobster shack. I placed my order for a bowl of clam chowder and a lobster roll with hot butter. I greatly appreciated that they had a tent with covered seating so that I could enjoy my meal there. I can imagine when the weather is nice that this spot has spectacular views of the water. The service was extremely fast and friendly, and the food was delicious. The prices were fair for the portions and I can see why it has such rave reviews. I'm sure in the summertime when the weather is nice parking can be a nightmare, but I managed to snag one of the few spots because it was the off-season. read more

McLoons Lobster Shack - Bowl of clam chowder, lobster roll with hot butter, and hot apple cider - Seafood Near Me - South Thomaston, Maine

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McLoon's Lobster Shack is hands down the best lobster experience I've had in Maine. You'd think lobster is lobster, but the ones caught just offshore here are on another level--the sweetest, most flavorful meat I've ever tasted. Absolutely unforgettable. The steamed lobster was perfection: fresh, tender, and naturally sweet. The lobster roll was just as incredible, piled high with whole pieces of claw, knuckle, and tail on a perfectly toasted bun. Simple, pure, and exactly what a lobster roll should be. Blueberry anything in Maine is always a solid choice. The Wild Maine Blueberry Pie was amazing! What makes McLoon's even more special is the setting. Picnic tables overlooking the harbor, working lobster boats bobbing in view, and that peaceful coastal vibe that makes you want to linger long after your meal. It's the Maine you imagine--only better. Many lobster places offer options for non-seafood eaters, McLoon's goes further with veggie burgers, hot dogs, hamburgers, and grilled cheese, making it a great stop for everyone. With friendly staff, unbeatable lobster, and a view that belongs on a postcard, McLoon's isn't just a meal, it's the lobster shack experience you don't want to miss. Earned a place at the top of the lobster rolls. read more

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Great lobster and views. Staff is delightful. Order at the shack, find a table with a view, and they'll bring it to you. Very popular for a reason. The only thing I wish is that they would offer the option of larger lobsters like Five Islands. read more

We had to drive quite aways (for Portland) to get to McLoons, but I wanted to make sure my mom had a great Lobster while on vacation. One of the best decisions I've ever made! The whole operation is super cute, inviting, and picturesque. The views out to the water and boats and phenomenal. And the food - whether you want steamers or a lobster roll - was delicious. Didn't have room to try the soups and other foods, but everyone around us seemed happy with their various choices. They have a little ice cream stand, too, and it felt like plenty of parking. Only downside was it seems they only have PortaJons, no actual bathrooms. Which isn't great. But jist plan ahead and don't let that overall minor hiccup prevent you from planning a trip to McLoons! read more

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We had an amazing visit to McLoons while staying in Rockport, ME! Food was so good and the atmosphere there was so unique.

It's a shack for lobster, likely under the radar for most tourists. But it easily outshines the big-name spots when it comes to lobster in Maine. They close at 7pm, so do as the locals do: come early, snag a front-row seat, and savor your lobster rolls with family and friends as the sun sets over the water. The lobsters are as fresh as it gets--you can literally watch them being pulled straight from the ocean beside the deck. There's something deeply satisfying about sharing this kind of meal in the open air, surrounded by locals who've made it part of their summer rhythm. No frills, no fuss--just fresh food, good company, and a view that makes you feel like you truly belong. read more

McLoons Lobster Shack - Seafood Near Me - South Thomaston, Maine

Great lobster experience that works for tourists as well as locals. Excellent lobster rolls, and the only place I've seen where they store the lobsters in the ocean and pull them up as they need them. Great for familes and small groups with plentiful outdoor seating and space to run around read more

McLoons Lobster Shack - Kids get to see lobster picked out of the water - Seafood Near Me - South Thomaston, Maine

We went VERY out of our way to stop at McLoons on our drive from Acadia to Boothbay Harbor. It was WORTH IT! It was my father's first lobster roll and it did not disappoint. Great views, great food, fast service! What else could you need. read more

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The vibe was outstanding. Loved there were several options for seating, especially because when the sun goes down it gets cold, and there's heaters . Quick service, and outstanding food! read more

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I will continue to drive 3.5 hours to get a lobster roll and blueberry bread pudding from McLoon's! I have told everyone I know about this little gem on the water. There is plenty of parking and seating. Picnic tables with umbrellas, chairs by the water, or tables underneath a tent, all with a beautiful view of the water. You will find two booths to order, one for food and one for dessert. I find their lobster roll unique, instead of the lobster tossed in mayo, they put it on the roll and provide a side of drawn butter. Don't be surprised if there is a bit of a wait, we overheard others say they drove several hours to eat there too. read more

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It is always a good sign when a lobster shack overlooks a harbor filled with lobster boats. McLoons is the quintessential Maine lobster shack. We visited Maine for 12 days in August 2025, and the best lobster rolls we had were at McLoons. I ordered the regular lobster roll and my lovely bride ordered the Lobster Rolls Royce, which has twice as much lobster meat, served with clarified butter on the side. The clam chowder was delicious. The line was long on Labor Day weekend, but once your order is in, the food arrives quickly. Save room for the desserts - we loved the blueberry bread pudding and the blueberry hand pies. Highly recommended! read more

McLoons Lobster Shack - Seafood Near Me - South Thomaston, Maine

The highlight meal of our trip. The lobster and crab roll were impeccable, the view and vibe was outstanding, and even though they were out of blueberry pie, the blueberry bread pudding exceeded expectations and was the best bread pudding Ive had in recent memory. Would definitely recommend. read more

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10/10 no notes! This place was amazing the last time my boyfriend and I visited. It's a far drive (about 10 hours) but honestly is so worth it!! read more

do not recommend - there is no parking. we came on a weekday. people parked poorly. we had turn around and drive back out and never come back again. read more

Spectacular lobster roll if you love a mayo butter combo this us for you. The bun is perfectly buttery and toasted. Fair portion for the price and comes with chips and slaw- and you just cant beat the vibe on a sunny Maine afternoon by the water. Clam chowder was great too. Such a necessary stop when you're around. read more

McLoons Lobster Shack - Lobster Roll - Seafood Near Me - South Thomaston, Maine

Wow! These aren't just lobster rolls.... These are lobSTAR rolls! The buttery lobster was an explosion of all things Maine in my mouth. What an experience. Beautiful location, and that blueberry bread pudding???? Let's just say it was BERRY good ;) read more

This changed my mind about lobster! What a gorgeous location, kind staff, and a world class lobster roll. I'm not a sea food guy and this was well worth the visit!! read more

McLoons Lobster Shack - Lobster roll! Comes with Cole slaw, chips, and a pickle - Seafood Near Me - South Thomaston, Maine

By far the best lobster roll we had while in Maine! It's off the beaten path but the view and lobster is well worth it. Lobster rolls came with a side of cape cod chips and meat was super fresh and they didn't skimp on the lobster. We also tried the clam chowder and it was a really solid option! They had such a large outdoor seating area to look at the ocean. Service was a great and food came out super quick. This will be on our forsure hit list when we come back to Maine next! read more

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We were driving around area so my wife suggested we do the tourist thing before they come We split everything even the dessert Food was fabulous go up to a hut and order approx 10 mins they call your name and service was amazing. It's right in a cove on the water so the view was spectacular!! I had grilled little necks served with tarragon butter , Patty had clam chowder, and we split a grilled cheese. The photo is our blueberry bread pudding!! A friggin 10!! read more

McLoons Lobster Shack - The blueberry bread pudding was awesome too - Seafood Near Me - South Thomaston, Maine

The best lobster roll I have ever had!! My wife and I opted to split the larger one they had on the menu and weren't disappointed in the quantity. The clam dip was also super good, but most likely you are here for the Lobster. read more

McLoons Lobster Shack - Clam dip - Seafood Near Me - South Thomaston, Maine

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A friend of mine recommended McLoons and I'm so glad we went. The Lobster roll was phenomenal!! So flavorful. The butter and mayo are the perfect combination. There is only outdoor seating and luckily it wasn't raining when we went. They do not serve any alcohol but you are able to bring your own and drink it there. A nice cold beer would be perfect with it. I definitely want to come back and try other items on their menu. Once we ordered our food was brought out to us in less than 10 minutes. read more

McLoons Lobster Shack - Lobster Roll - Seafood Near Me - South Thomaston, Maine

purchased through Goldbelly but McLoons lobster what small pieces of what part of the lobster I don't know! Very disappointed and the rolls were hard and I trashed them and got some from the local baker. Try Lukes. read more

OMG!!! I am in love!!! For many years, we have been enjoying our occasional Maine roadtrips in search of the perfect Lobster Roll & Whoppie Pie. I think that that Lobster Roll has been found! A little further north than we usually venture, I was excited to find this still open on a gorgeous fall Sunday. A pretty short drive off Rt. 1 brings you to a gorgeous cove & this beautiful spot with those iconic Maine coastal views. We parked & figured out the lay of the land. Two separate ordering areas - one savory & one dessert, a covered seatimg area & scattered tables & Adirondack chairs at which to enjoy your treats. Lobster Cakes were a special qe had to try. Like a Crab Cake but full of fresh lobster meat. Delicious. The Clam Chowder was perfect - not too thick or too thin, briny & loaded with delicious clams & potatoes. But, then there was the Lobster Roll. ABSOLUTE PERFECTION! Served on a split top hot dog bun - as it should be. The bun is buttery & griddled until crispy. I am generally a fan of the "cold" roll with a touch of mayo, not the "hot buttered" type. But, their version of buttered lobster with a smear of mayo is absolutely amazing! Not to mention that it was loaded with sweet, succulent meat - including a ton of tail & kot all claw & knuckle. And, this was the smaller roll! I could eat one of these every day! While we were full, we had to grab a Whoppie Pie to go. Pumpkin whoopies were available for the fall but I went for the standard. Later it made for a great snack - a very good, solid whoopie pie. I will be dreaming about McLoons until I get to return... read more

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What an amazing spot. Must visit when in Maine. If the choice is between McLoons or Acadia Park? You know where I'm going! Worth the 2.5 hour drive term Sebago Lake and 30 minute line. Freshest most flavorful food we had the entire trip, in the most iconic of Maine settings. McLoons in a clear class of their own. Don't miss it. read more

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This place is incredible! The lobster roll was FANTASTIC! Toasted bun, drawn butter and tons of lobster meat with great flavor. Coleslaw was good. Clam chowder was good! The apple cider was fantastic. The blueberry pie with blueberry ice cream was the perfect combo to top off a great meal. The view was gorgeous! read more

McLoons Lobster Shack - Lobster roll, clam chowder and coleslaw - Seafood Near Me - South Thomaston, Maine

I received a mother's day gift of the lobster rolls. ( son sent it thru Goldbelly). Arrived perfectly packaged. The lobster was fresh, and VERY large pieces. There was a GENEROUS AMOUNT. The only suggestion would be to include in the instructions that chopping up the lobster before heating would make it easier to eat in the rolls( also fantastic). LOVED IT!! read more

This is the ideal place to get a flavor of Maine. The lobster roll was reasonably priced (that's hard to find these days). It was delicious as was the crab roll. The clam dip was served with chips. The ice cream was Gifford's. The blueberry bread pudding was very good. It had lots of blueberries. The setting is exceptional. It's in a fishing cove. The staff were friendly and helpful. What more could you ask for? read more

McLoons Lobster Shack - They keep the lobster in the ocean until they need it. The woman let the kids hold the lobsters. - Seafood Near Me - South Thomaston, Maine

We stopped here on our way up from Boston to Bar Harbor. It was absolutely perfect. The view was perfect and the Lobster was plentiful and delicious. The gals working were so friendly and helpful. The Whoopi Pie was the perfect ending to our dinner. read more

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Once again we visited Owls Head lighthouse and on our return made the now mandatory stop for lunch at McLoons. Once again there was a line to order. Once again I got in line and ordered New England clam chowdah. Once again we sat at a table overlooking the harbor while enjoying both the delicious chowdah and the beautiful harbor. read more

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Unfortunately, I'm a real slacker when it comes to taking photos of our food, but as you can see the line speaks for itself. This is hands down the best place that we've had during our week long coastal tour of Maine. We had the clam dip, lobster roll, and lobster stew and all were delicious. The setting of this place is incredible, slightly off the beaten path with plenty of seating overlooking the water. The staff here is friendly and our food came out quickly..... this is definitely a must stop and we will be back for sure during our next trip. Don't skip this one. read more

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You can't beat the view, and some great staff. After I read some reviews from yelp we picked this place though with extra drive out of the way. However, the steamed lobster I first got is a joke, you can see from the photo compare to a small lemon wedge. After I mentioned it to the staff, she tried to convince me that is what I should get. No way because I had three 1 1/4 lbs lobster dinner for the last couple days and I know it's not right. She walked away and said there is nothing she can do. I found another person who apparently witnessed the whole thing and decided that I should get the right thing. Hence I got another photo of the claws. Thanks for not ruining my Maine lobster trip!!! read more

McLoons Lobster Shack - Lobster claws and tail - Seafood Near Me - South Thomaston, Maine

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We went twice over the July 4th week - fiirst because a colleague highly recommended this place over Reds Eats which has been our favorite for years. Mccloons is a little farther up past by Thomaston and so a longer drive. But, once you get there the scenery is just stunning. There were no lines when we got there - we just missed the crush. We both got the regular lobster rolls which came with a bag of chips. The lobster was so fresh and tender. It cost about $26 but there was a decent portion of lobster. It was the perfect size gift one person. read more

McLoons Lobster Shack - Menu - Seafood Near Me - South Thomaston, Maine

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In our first trip to the picturesque state of Maine, we detoured on our way from Portland to our cottage south of Belfast to take in a lobster shack. Not just any lobster shack - but seriously one of Maine's best. Now I've only tried this one - but my praise of McLoon's is from both my visit and the numerous reviews I've seen online. Lobster shacks abound here in Maine. What make's McLoon's special I believe its location, right on a lobster port, dotted with fishing boats. Service was from a window in a shack (hence the name) surrounded by Adirondack chairs, picnic tables, a fire pit, and gorgeous views of the bay. Their lobster is kept in a cage tied to a rope and left in the sea until they pull it up and move it to the shack for cooking. It's fresh, sweet, tender and so tasty. Our lobster rolls had a bit of mayo and were served with melted butter. The roll - a key ingredient that could easily be taken for granted - was tender, fresh, and just the right about of crisp from toasting. We added a cup of Clam Chowder and wished we had done two - it was excellent! Our entire visit was a great first lobster shack experience. We'll continue to try others while here in Maine...but I expect our first may have been our best. But it's sure fun trying to beat that first experience. Lobster...here we come! read more

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After several days traveling from Boston to Bar Harbor eating a dozen or so lobster rolls, I can definitely state that McLoons Lobster Shack was my favorite lobster roll of all. First of all, McLoons is in a beautiful location right off the dock that did not have a mega long line like some of the more popular places had along the way such as Red's and parking was easy. Even the drive here was beautiful and I knew it was going to be great as I hardly saw any other cars on the road coming here. But what really sealed the victory was when I saw some of the staff walk to the dock use a crane and pulled up a bucket of lobsters from the sea and grab a bunch to take into the shack for prep. So in terms of freshness, the lobster rolls are only a hour or so harvested from the ocean. The little shack was cute and made a great background for photos, ordering was relatively easy, and they take credit cards (unlike some places that only take cash). There were tons of seats and tables to sit and most had shade. The lobster rolls were what I consider the perfect roll where the lobster is mega fresh, butter and mayo added just in correct proportions to not over power the lobster, fantastic roll with great taste. With the lobster piled high, I can't imagine any way to improve this lobster roll. They also have standard crunchy chips and various sodas. The only thing I thought was odd was the corn chowder as it was simply corn and potatoes and really was something they should eliminate and just stick to lobsters. So if you are on a lobster roll mission, like I was, just add this to the top of your list as it was my FAVORITE lobster roll in all of New England. read more

Great spot on the water. Had a delicious lobster roll and some chowder. Hung out and looked over the water at the boats-beautiful!