How Much are Lobster Rolls in Maine? A Breakdown of Prices and Where to Find the Best Deals

Maine is famous for its fresh lobster, and lobster rolls are one of the most iconic foods to try when visiting Vacationland. But with so many places claiming to have the “best” lobster rolls, how do you know where to go to get the best deal and value?

As locals, we’ve sampled our fair share of lobster rolls across the state. In this article, we’ll give you the inside scoop on exactly how much lobster rolls cost in Maine, where to find the best deals, and some pro tips for maximizing your lobster roll experience without breaking the bank

The Price Range for Lobster Rolls in Maine

Lobster roll prices can vary widely, from around $10 on the very low end to $40+ at higher-end restaurants or shacks in prime tourist areas. On average, expect to pay somewhere between $15-$30 for a standard lobster roll in Maine.

Here’s a quick breakdown of the typical pricing you’ll encounter

• Low-budget lobster rolls: $10-$15. Lower-cost options using less meat or lower quality rolls. Often found at takeout-only spots or food trucks.

• Average lobster rolls: $18-$25. The sweet spot for most middle-of-the-road lobster shacks. Fresh lobster with good quality bread.

• Premium lobster rolls: $25-$35. Large portions of lobster meat, nicer bread, specialty ingredients, or premium locations come with a higher price tag.

• High-end lobster rolls: $35+. Upscale restaurants or tourist hot spots serving artisanal rolls with large claw/tail meat portions.

As you can see, there’s quite a spectrum when it comes to lobster roll prices in Vacationland! The cost of your roll will depend largely on the quality of the ingredients, the generosity of the lobster meat portion, any special sauces/add-ons, and the desirability of the location.

Where to Find the Best Lobster Roll Deals

You don’t have to break the bank to enjoy an authentic Maine lobster roll. Here are some of our tips for finding delicious lobster rolls at lower price points:

• Food trucks and takeout spots: Counter-serve and takeout-only establishments often have lower overhead, allowing them to offer lobster rolls at budget-friendly prices.

• Roadside lobster pounds: These unassuming shacks get lobsters direct from the source and sell them cheap. Grab a roll for a steal.

• Mom-and-pop shops: Support small local businesses that serve classics simply without frills. No waterfront view but great food.

• Happy hour deals: Many higher-end restaurants offer lunchtime or happy hour lobster roll specials at reduced rates.

• Free sides: Some places include fries, coleslaw etc. with rolls, while others charge extra. Seek out “meal deals.”

• BYOB restaurants: Since they don’t serve alcohol, these spots offer food at lower prices. Bring your own beer/wine to pair.

• Southern Maine: As you move south along the coast, prices tend to be a little more budget-friendly compared to tourist hot spots.

• Off-season visits: Visiting in shoulder seasons of May/June or September/October means fewer crowds and often better deals.

Pro Tips for Scoring the Best Deal on Your Lobster Roll

Once you’ve identified some good value lobster rolls on your itinerary, use these pro tips to make the most of your purchase:

• Time it right – Try to avoid peak lunch hours when lobster rolls are most expensive and crowded.

• Dress it up – Ask for extra butter or mayo on the side to make the most of every bite.

• Share the wealth – Order one roll and a side of fries for the table to split (but get extra rolls if you’re very hungry!)

• Go big – Upsize to a jumbo lobster roll on a bigger bun, often just a few dollars more.

• Watch the extras – Opt for a simple cold roll and avoid additional charges for special sauces, bacon, avocado, etc.

• Buy in bulk – Take advantage of multi-roll deals and free sides when purchasing multiple rolls.

• Leave room – Don’t fill up on overpriced apps when anticipating a hefty lobster roll as your main meal.

• Think outside the bread – Enjoy lobster meat at lower prices in tacos, salad, mac and cheese, etc.

• DIY it – Recreate the magic at home with high-quality store-bought lobster meat and rolls.

Top 5 Affordable Lobster Rolls in Maine

Armed with insider knowledge on getting the best lobster roll bang for your buck, check out our picks for 5 of the tastiest budget-friendly lobster rolls in Maine:

1. Tracey’s Seafood – Sullivan, ME: Simple, no-frills $10 lobster rolls near Acadia National Park. Worth the wait.

2. The Clam Shack – Kennebunkport, ME: Classic cold rolls made with fresh native lobster for around $15. Cash only.

3. Bite Into Maine – Various Locations: Food truck serving hearty $12 lobster rolls all over Maine. Follow them on social media to track them down.

4. Boothbay Lobster Wharf – Boothbay Harbor, ME: The $18 “weenie” roll packs a lot of meat. Picturesque outdoor seating too.

5. Red’s Eats – Wiscasset, ME: Legendary jumbo rolls for $22. Prepare to wait in line with the other pilgrims.

Enjoy the Roll Without the Hole in Your Wallet

Here in Maine, we know that paying more doesn’t always mean getting better when it comes to our iconic lobster rolls. With insider tips on where to find deals, timing your visit, and maximizing your order, you can indulge in sweet lobster meat tucked into a grilled bun without draining your vacation funds.

Have you tried any great budget lobster rolls in Maine? Share your favorites in the comments!