10 Lobster Dishes in Portland, Maine
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Cracking Into Portland’s Most Unique Lobster Dishes
When it comes to Portland, Maine’s culinary landscape, lobster takes center stage in many innovative and delicious ways. Beyond the classic lobster rolls, here are ten unique lobster dishes that showcase the creativity of Portland’s seafood scene (in no particular order):
Lobster Roll from Twelve
At Twelve, one of Portland’s fine dining spots, the lobster roll feels a little more elevated than what you’d expect. Instead of a traditional bun, it’s served on a flaky, buttery croissant style bread, which adds so much richness and texture. The lobster is lightly dressed so you really taste its natural sweetness. It’s a unique take on Maine’s most iconic bite, unexpected but really well done.
Lobster Benedict from Bayside American Cafe
Bayside American Cafe is a local favorite for breakfast and brunch, and the lobster Benedict is one of the standout dishes. It’s a classic eggs Benedict elevated with tender Maine lobster layered over an English muffin, topped with perfectly poached eggs and hollandaise sauce. It’s rich without being too heavy, and the lobster adds that sweet, fresh coastal flavor that makes it feel very Portland. A great choice if you’re in the mood for a relaxed brunch with a Maine twist.
Lobster Stew from Gilbert's Chowder House
Right on the Portland waterfront, Gilbert’s Chowder House is one of those classic Portland spots that just feels right for something cozy. Their lobster stew is super rich and creamy, packed with tender lobster, and honestly exactly what you want on a chilly Maine day. They’re generous with it too, don’t be surprised if you get whole claws in that buttery broth. It’s simple, comforting, and always hits, whether you’re stopping in for lunch or warming up after walking around the Old Port.
Lobster Mac and Cheese from DiMillo's
DiMillo's, the iconic floating restaurant on Commercial Street, is one of those classic Portland spots you have to try at least once. While there’s a lot of seafood on the menu, the lobster mac and cheese really stands out. It’s made with tender lobster and campanelle pasta in a rich, creamy lobster mascarpone sauce with a hint of cognac. It’s topped with their signature lobster stuffing crumbs and served with garlic bread, so it definitely leans indulgent. Super comforting, a little over the top in the best way, and perfect if you’re in the mood for something hearty.
Brown Butter Lobster Roll and Lobster Stew from Eventide
Eventide Oyster Co. is known for putting a twist on the classic lobster roll, and their brown butter version is easily one of the most talked about in Portland. It’s served on a soft, steamed bun instead of the usual roll, with warm lobster and rich, nutty brown butter. It’s simple but so good, and definitely a must if you’re into seafood.
The lobster stew is just as worth ordering. It’s a little different than the traditional kind, with big chunks of lobster, mushrooms, coconut, and green curry in a really flavorful broth. It’s warm, a little unexpected, and super comforting. Honestly, you can’t go wrong with either, but getting both is the move.
Open Faced Lobster Ravioli from David's Restaurant
This dish at David's Restaurant feels a little extra in the best way. The open faced lobster ravioli is layered with lobster, scallops, and shrimp, plus a herbed ricotta ravioli underneath, all in a rich lobster cream sauce with a splash of sherry. It’s super comforting but still feels elevated, like a Maine take on classic Italian.
Lobster Buns and Lobster Miso Ramen from Pai Men Miyake
At Pai Men Miyake, the lobster buns here are so good and a little different from what you’d expect. Soft steamed buns are filled with lobster, kewpie mayo, a squeeze of lemon, and finished with truffle oil and scallions. They’re rich, a little indulgent, and such a fun mix of Japanese flavors with Maine seafood.
If you’re going here, the lobster miso ramen is also worth it. The broth is rich and savory with that deep miso flavor, and it’s packed with noodles, lobster, and scallions. It’s warm, comforting, and has that perfect balance of cozy ramen with something a little more special.
Lobster and Garlic Pan Fried Dumplings from Lucky Cheetah
Tucked away on Moulton Street in the Old Port, Lucky Cheetah has a fun, speakeasy kind of vibe with dark interiors and cheetah themed touches. It’s known for upscale Chinese small plates and dim sum, and the lobster and garlic pan fried dumplings are definitely worth ordering. They’re crispy on the outside, filled with tender lobster, and have that rich black garlic flavor that makes them feel a little extra. It’s a great spot if you’re in the mood to try something different in a cozy, hidden gem kind of setting.
Lobster Tacos from Highroller Lobster Co.
Highroller Lobster Co. is known for doing lobster a little differently, and the lobster tacos are such a fun example of that. They’re filled with big chunks of lobster in warm tortillas with fresh toppings that keep everything light and balanced. It’s not your typical Maine lobster dish, but it totally works and is perfect if you want something a little more casual.
Lobster Linguine from Street & Co.
Street & Co. is one of those classic Portland spots, and their lobster linguine is exactly what you’d hope for. It’s simple, rich, and really lets the lobster shine, tossed with perfectly cooked pasta in a light, buttery sauce. It feels a little more traditional, but in the best way.
Portland’s food scene really shines when it comes to lobster, and these spots show just how many different ways you can enjoy it. From classic dishes to more creative takes, there’s something for everyone and it’s all worth trying at least once.
Thanks for reading!
- The Maine Chick
