The Lobster Shack

Parking can be a bit of a challenge, especially during peak season. It’s on the pricier side for something marketed as a “shack,” but given how touristy the place is, it’s somewhat expected. We’ve had quite a few lobster rolls during our East Coast trip, and honestly, the one here wasn’t the best. The clam chowder that came with the meal was more watery than we’re used to—not bad, just different. The lobster stew had generous chunks of meat, but the cup was tiny and tasted mostly like cream. There’s plenty of indoor seating, which is nice, but when things get busy, the staff seemed a bit overwhelmed and not the most patient. Overall, a decent stop if you’re nearby, but probably not worth going out of the way for.

What an amazing meal! The lobster was truly outstanding - incredibly soft, melt-in-your-mouth meat that was perfectly complemented by just a light touch of mayo, not overpowering the natural sweetness of the lobster. The chowder was absolutely incredible! Crafted with delicate white fish and seasoned with blend of herbs, it was delightfully light, milky, and soupy - a refreshing change from the thicker and floury version. They emphasize that the chowder recipe dates back to 1988, I sincerely hope that they won't change a bit of it - absolutely exquisite! The ambient is very homey, it reminds me the interior of a boat, with ita warm wooden tables and benches. The staff is very kind and smiley. Highly recommended!

Unfortunately was very disappointed with the food. Service was great and atmosphere is perfect lobster shack vibe. We tried steamers, clam chowder and lobster roll. Steamers were good and absolutely clean, not sandy. Clam chowder was very bland, had really no clam flavor and very little actual clams. Lobster roll was also disappointing. Very small pieces of lobster, seemed like mostly knuckle meat.

While visiting the cute town of Ogunquit, we stopped for lunch at the Lobster Shack and it really hit the spot. Tried the clam chowder, lobster roll, crab cake sandwich, and haddock street tacos — all of it was super tasty. Everything was seasoned just right, and the homemade chips were a nice touch. Cute little spot with a laid-back coastal vibe. Would definitely go back.

Best seaside food...if you love lobster, this is the place to go. After all what is better than a cheesy grilled cheese sandwich on artisan bread?....A cheesey grilled cheese sandwich, loaded with lobster on artisan bread! Lobster Stew was pretty amazing too!

We stopped for the lunch special- a lobster roll and clam chowder. THEY WERE AMAZING!! 10/10. No notes needed. Just come and try the amazingly fresh seafood!

You have to stop here. Busy, but the fellas working hard here are very pleasant and they have a good system. Great lobster, strong beers on tap. Kinda have to get the lobster roll. Our favorite in the area.

Hearty, generous portions of delicious and fresh lobster, served warm with butter (because I’m a heathen from Connecticut) and a cup of traditional chowder, all for a reasonable price. My wife had the fish tacos, which she said were phenomenal. What a treat!

I have a hard time giving a 5 star review to a place that has the word "shack" in it but, you know what, the Lobster Shack in Ogunquit Maine is the real deal!!! And it is in fact in a shack. Honestly, how this building survives the next Nor'Easter is beyond me! You can tell the tiny building is old and probably held together with spit & glue ( that was NOT an appetizing reference but you get the picture). It's like walking back into time 20 or 30 years. But the sautéed - not fried - haddock sandwich was a game changer for me. First of all, there was so much fish on that sandwich!!! HUGE SERVING!!! And the flavor was outstanding! I could just tell that my haddock had been enjoying an Atlantic Ocean swim that morning (or at least the day before). That sandwich was so good! The bun was soft but strong. The tartar sauce was tangy but not overpowering. This place knows how to cook fish! Okay so I had to wait ten or fifteen minutes to get it - SO WHAT - it was cooked right in front of me after I ordered and, in the meantime, I enjoyed my spouse and the pounding surf a short walk away. I LOVED IT, And the staff from the cash register guy to the servers are Maine's finest! I'm not sure what this place is like in the summer when the crowds descend. But today was cold and windy and there wasn't an open table to be found! Run don't walk to Ogunquit's Lobster Shack! You will be very glad you did!

The Lobster Shake is a typical dockside dive that simple in decor and operation. What they do well is Lobster. I recall that I had a salad with lobster, and received a massive pile of lobster meat. No skimping here. It was great. My wife and I went for a mid-week lunch. The inside is like the inside of a, well, shack, with heavy wooden tables. You seat yourself. Orders are placed and paid for at the counter, and your food is brought to you at your table. The staff was cheery and the service was prompt. Not giving five stars because it was not a magical experience, but it was very good, if you like lobster.

I'm not the biggest lobster roll fan, as I find that they often don't have much flavor for the cost, but I figured while visiting Ogunquit it was a must-have. The Lobster Shack was running a $32 lunch special including a lobster roll and a cup of clam chowder, so I ordered it to-go and took it down by the water. The lobster roll was GREAT. A huge amount of lobster, nice crisp on the roll, and good flavor. The clam chowder was decent and did the job, but I've definitely had better. It was pretty thin and had a lot of oil. If I returned, I'd skip the chowder and just go with the roll. Service was fast for my to-go order even despite the line down the street at lunchtime. Definitely recommend parking outside Perkins Cove and walking down to it, since you're unlikely to find parking near any of the businesses in the cove itself.

Really good lobster roll, fairly good chowder. Their lunch special makes it affordable Lobster shack ambience as per the name. Terrible parking options though. Short wait and nice staff.

We've been coming here once a year for over 25 years. Great service, great personnel, great fresh food. Great beer selection. Head on down to the end of the Cove and have a great meal.

Hands down my favorite for lobster stew!! There's always a bit of a line, but it's well worth it! No nonsense ordering and service. You grab a table after ordering and have a short wait for a delicious bowl of stew full of lobster! If you're looking for romantic, you won't find it here, but if you're looking for a fabulous meal in a fun atmosphere, then you're at the right place!

This is the lobster roll i still dream about. On our trip to Maine we ate several lobster rolls and this is the one that stood out from the rest. Perfectly cooked, tender lobster, a touch of mayo, and a buttered and toasted roll. Perfection. The portions are very generous too! From the outside the shack seems fairly unassuming. The staff are friendly, polite, and quick. I highly recommend the lobster shack!

Ordered the lobster soup . The lobster was really fresh and good . The soup was bland. Very bland . I just ate the lobster .

Serving up all things Lobster in a cozy haunt. Located at Perkins cove Ogunquit , we walked into this tiny little spot and we paid upfront to order our meal. We ordered the Lobster roll & Lobster stew .The service was was prompt and the food came out quick. The Roll was quite small and didn't have enough lobster meat to share. Lobster Stew tasted good with chunks of lobster meat . While lobster is pricey , our meal didn't offer much value for money given the size and quantity. Ordering your own meal would be a wise idea. This is one of those local joints to try to support a local family run business.

This is my family's go to stop in Perkins Cove. We make annual summer trips up to Maine just for a nice walk through Ogunquit and a scrumptious meal at The Lobster Shack. You will not be disappointed by anything on their menu, but I always stick to my usual - a lobster roll combo with seafood chowder. The lobster rolls are filled with fat chunks of fresh Maine lobster - not like other lobster rolls that only contain small pieces of lobster claw meat. The interior is simple with bench style tables and you order at the front before sitting down. There usually line out the door but the wait is worth it. I've also taken my meal to go and just sat outside on a bench or a picnic table.

My family and I came here based on a recommendation from a reliable friend. There were two lines based on if you wanted take out or dine in. We opted for the dine in which took about 15-20 min wait but wasn't a problem since we had to decide what we wanted before walking in. They take your order immediately in which they bring the food directly to your table. It took them less than 10 minutes to prepare everything. The chowder bowl was tasty, filled with potatoes and seafood. But it's more of a soup than a chowder since the viscosity isn't there. The steamers were fresh and purged well while the lobster was sweet and the perfect amount of salty. My mom enjoyed her crab roll which was well stuffed with a side of potato chips and a briny pickle. Overall, we thoroughly enjoyed our meal and felt the wait was well worth it. The staff were super kind from beginning to the end. The location poises you for a great view of the water and the boats. Would come again to enjoy the New England atmosphere.

Came here the day after trying the lobster roll at Bite into Maine so maybe my standards were too high. Just found the roll here to be okay. The lobster itself wasn't very flavorful. It was priced a few dollars cheaper at $28 Added a clam chowder for $4 (lunch combo). I enjoyed it but not it's not the creamy style. We arrived at opening so there's no wait. But it did get busy. Note it's right in the middle of the touristy area so parking can be tough and expensive. We lucked out because we had just walked the olgunquit narrow and got a free spot at the other end. Did an easy and beautiful 15min walk to get here. And then walked off a few fries on the way back.

If you want thick, gloppy, tasteless, clam-free, chowder, go to any other restaurant but do not go here! If you want to eat the BEST chowder on the planet go to The Lobster Shack in Perkins Cove Ogunquit, ME. Light, buttery, flavorful, scrumptious, unique clam chowder! And while you are there, why not have a succulent lobster with corn, best in the world grilled haddock sandwich or their lobster roll! Truly a New England feast for your tastebuds!

The food was excellent and the owner and staff were very nice. We love coming here! Old fashioned authentic lobster shack!

While staying adjacent to Perkins Cove, I had to get my fill of lobster rolls, so I switched it up and purchased a cold lobster roll from the Lobster Shack. The roll had a good amount of lobster. I just wish that outside of mayo they seasoned their lobster rolls. I used salt & pepper to give it some flavor, but it would have been next level if there was some chopped onion and celery in there.

Enjoyed the flavor of my lobster roll and clam chowder. I received my meal quickly and the staff was friendly. Would definitely be back the next time I visit Maine.

Perfect Maine lunch: a lobster roll, chips, and chowder. The inside is no frills but the owner and his staff will greet you with kindness. We had to wait 10 minutes to enter...no big deal. The wait is for dine in or take out.

Primitive setting with picnic tables but as soon as you sit, you'll notice very clean and GREAT aroma. The best thing we had was the clam and fish chowder with big chunks of fish and yummy broth with potatoes. The young staff were very attentive. Would definitely return.

No frills, but very good and reasonably priced. Lobster stew was savory, buttery, and packed with chunks of tender lobster meat. Lobster roll meat was also chunks of tender lobster that was warm so the butter didn't have to do all the warming. Came with a pickle spear and chips. The meat in these dishes wasn't just pieces pulled from claws either, but picked tail and body.

You won't get better lobster, lobster roll or chowder anywhere. Great service too. Must stop in Ogunquit.

Good food here after a walk on marginal way. Lots of lobster in each dish. Soup was okay. We ordered at the counter and food came out quick. Small inside but cozy.

Order at the counter and they will bring you the food. Friendly couple and no frills dining. Great location and the only place for grab-go food that tastes home cooked

Do Not go if you need ambiance you wont find it what you will find is the best lobster roll in Maine Not cheap but well worth it Do not skip Only neg is parking

I cannot say enough good things about this place! Make sure you have your full party or they won't really let you in, but feel free to look at a menu while you're waiting for the rest of your party. Order at the counter and grab an empty table, and the pleasant staff will come deliver your food! Place is super cozy. I cannot believe what a good deal the twin lobster lunch special was. Two one pound lobsters for $24! We ordered so many and devoured them. So fresh and so tasty. Lobster roll had some of the most amazing lobster meat I've ever had but definitely missed on the bread portion. Was hoping for a tastier bread. But either way, highly recommend if you're in the area. Beware of parking in the area, Perkins cove parking is usually very crowded.

Charming atmosphere, view, and service. The lobster roll was perfection, but the chowder stole the show!!

If I have to pick one place to eat on a visit to Ogunquit, this is the one! The hard part is deciding between the lobster roll and the fish tacos -- both are the best I've ever had. And get the clam chowder no matter which you pick! It's definitely casual, wooden tables with long benches inside. If you can't get a seat, takeout works -- there are a handful of picnic tables around Perkins Cove. There can be a line out the door if people waiting to order at the counter, but it moves pretty fast. Lobster rolls are expensive everywhere, but in my experience, this one is an excellent value - lots of great lobster meat, and slightly less expensive than other places nearby. It's closed in the winter, so check before you go. And in the summer, parking in the cove can be difficult, so if you walk from elsewhere that works best.

I had an amazing dining experience. Fresh lobster Roll was delicious, the service was friendly. I highly recommend!

OMG a ton of these places but this place was soooo perfect for what you'd expect' 2-1lb lobster tails and corn for $28?!!! The seafood chowder & lobster roll was stupid good. Loved this place!!!

Not impressed! First of all, if you post that your establishment opens at 11, your doors should be open at 11. We were told to wait outside, even though it was past 11, until they were ready. Second of all, I despise the idea of having to tip prior to being served. How are you going to ask me for gratuity if I have to come to you to order and haven't experienced any customer service yet. Third, I asked to substitute a $3 side of corn for a $3 side of coleslaw and was told I couldn't. Please explain that logic to me? Once our lobster did come out the plate was overflowing with water. How about let them drain for a bit after steaming. Maybe this was an off day for them, but it was disappointing enough for me not to return.

We had lunch today at the lobster shack and were very pleased. My wife and I both had the lunch special that was a lobster roll and chowder for $32.. We recommend and will likely eat there again within the area.

Stopped by this great lobster spot on our day trip to Maine from Mansfield, MA. Our group of six found comfortable seating inside with AC during a heat wave. Table ordered Lobster Rolls, Lobster BLT, Fish Tacos, and Shrimp Cocktail. Food was great! Service was on point and we left there with full bellies ready to come back when we need a Lobster Lunch. A big thank you to the team at The Lobster Shack. We had a fantastic lunch thanks you!

we ordered the lobster roll, chowder and ceasar salad - everything was amazing and super fresh. i would definitely recommend eating here!

Food was fantastic, vibe (ambiance) was perfect, service was over the top, young staff there seemed very hard working. Will absolutely return every time we visit Perkins Cove. Best lobster in the area.

Absolutely fantastic lobster roll for a decent price! Very cute place. I was confused by their ordering system at first but it was actually very effective! A host/hostess hands your party a menu while you wait in line outside, then when it's your turn you can go inside ready to order quickly. That way the door isn't opening & closing and there's no crowd of people ordering inside while others are eating!

Super yummy: the lobster roll and chowder were super yummy. The carb cake was not a favorite (but good), but we are used to having them in Baltimore.

Its my 2nd time to eat here and still love their lobster roll. Fast service and staff are nice. Place is clean and i love their location. Though the New England clam chowder can be better.

After running the Maine Coast Half Marathon we couldn't leave this area without a lobster roll and local brew! If you're ever in this part of the country please make a stop at this place! Walk in and order at the counter.....friendly service! We had the lunch special for $34 which consisted of lobster roll and clam chowder with chips and pickle. Clam Chowder was home made and delicious! Loved the butter bun and lobster....was perfect! Definitely recommend walking around the cute cove town.

Came in for clam chowder and a lobster roll. I wish it didn't come with potato chips, or maybe option for coleslaw would be nice. Chips and the roll can feel like a lot. Lobster roll was good but didn't blow my socks off. The clam chowder on the other hand was amazing. Staff is friendly.

Cute place for a good lobster stew and Lobster BLT. It's a small place but the lunch crowd got busy fast on a Monday.

Had a lobster with corn and coleslaw and recommend all of it. You order at counter and they bring it to you. Lobster was so fresh and delicious! Coleslaw was crisp and tasty with carrots. Will be back

Nothing short of greatness! A group of 5 of us headed to Perkins Cove for some exploring and Lobster on a Saturday and I'm glad we landed at The Lobster Shack. We waited in a brief line outside to be prompted to come in and order. I appreciated this as it was "seat yourself" but you were only able to after you ordered. Guaranteed a spot for paying guests. We ordered quickly and the food comes out promptly! All 5 of us ordered warm lobsters rolls during the lunch hours from 11-3 and only paid $32 for clam chowder and the roll. This special is really what pulled us in to eating here! I loved my lobster roll! The size was perfect, the chips with it were fresh and crispy, and the environment paired with it adds to the overall taste. The clam chowder was brought out first, however, it wasn't my favorite. Still, good, but not my favorite. Absolutely would recommend!

My husband & I was visiting from Maryland. Had lunch at The Lobster Shack. The clam chowder was delicious!! C C B

Thanks to Yelp we avoided the many tourist traps in Ogunquit and found this gem. They have a greeter to manage the line. The guy was quite helpful - thank you Mark. We were quickly in and ordered. Took a seat at the picnic style tables. They bring the food to you. Possibly the best lobster roll among many good ones this trip. My spouse had haddock tacos. Phenomenal! Oh and we also split "steamers"! I'd never had them before but my husband was familiar with the ritual. Bring your wallet. Parking was $25 at the public lot. Lunch was $98 plus tip. But I'm not complaining. Go here.

An outstanding lobster roll with a huge amount of lobster. The chowder is excellent. If you like fresh lobster, on a buttered roll you Will love this place on the cove

What a perfect spot to have lunch if you're ever in Southern Maine!! I've had many lobster rolls in my day and this one ranks first in my list. It's incredibly fresh and flavorful on a great roll. The chowder was abundant and full of fresh seafood. The service was amazing. What an fine example of a business that has been around for decades and doesn't take its customers for granted. All customers were greeted at the door and explained what was available for options. I went early and didn't have to wait to get in, but a line started forming around 12:00. I highly recommend this quaint restaurant over the several other larger seafood establishments in the area.

Great little restaurant that checks all the boxes. Order a lobster roll and bowl of clam chowder. While feeling regret on not being hungry enough for more. Too much looked interesting. The staff was polite and friendly. Restaurant was clean with tables quickly being wiped down and available for the next guest. First glance, the clam chowder looked watery. But, that proves you can't judge a book by its cover. As soon as the spoon hits the chowder, you are rewarded with a loaded bite of deliciousness. The lobster roll was fresh and amazing. Well worth the drive out here.

Amazing lobster roll in Perkins Cove. Small little place but that was the largest amount of lobster I ever had in years! Good service too!

Amazing lunch at The Lobster Shack! So fresh and tasty! The lobster even had a sweet taste. Definitely worth the detour.

Tried this per recommendation in best lobster roll article on-line. Friday night dinner traveling with family. Of the three lobster rolls we ate on our trip, this ranked third. Meat a bit chewy, Not much flavor. Boiled lobster also a bit overdone/chewy. Clam chowder was meaty, but in a thin broth lacking traditional creaminess and the potato chunks expected in the dish. No outdoor seating options, interior somewhat cramped. Would try other nearby options next time.