If you ask a Mainer where you should go to get the best lobster roll in the state, most people will quickly answer: Red's.
Located in Wiscasset, a 45 minute drive from Portland, the lobster shack known as Red's Eats has been dishing out the state's largest lobster roll for over 80 years. The shack opens in mid-April and will be busy all summer long, as tourists and locals alike line the block to get their hearty sandwich.
There are many aspects about the establishment that make it unique. First of all, the seafood shack is just that: a shack located on the corner of an intersection before your cross the Sheepscot River. Google Maps even describes the location as "famous lobster rolls in a tiny red shack." It may be hard to recognize the shack as your destination, not because it's poorly advertised, but because there tends to be a constant swarm of customers in front of the service window all season long.
On a hot summer day, the line tends to loop around the block and even over the bridge, making the wait for dinner up to three hours long. So is it really worth it?
Most people say yes.
A sign on the outside of the shack, which lists the market prices for the day, also boasts that the workers don't measure the lobster that fills each roll...they just pile it on. Each roll has about three handfuls of meat stuffed on top of a grilled hot dog bun, and you most likely will get two lobster tails and a full claw in each roll. The website for the restaurant states that throughout the summer season about 15 tons of lobster meat will be sold to hungry customers.
The stand also serves other seafood delicacies, including fried clams, fish and chips, clam rolls, crab cakes, and scallops, as well as plenty of choices for non-seafood lovers in your group. They also serve ice cream and Maine Whoopie Pies!
I noticed that the batter for the fried clams was unlike any other recipe I had tried before. It seemed more like fried dough batter, making the taste thicker than you would expect. But it was absolutely delicious!
P.S.: If you are looking for the true Maine experience, make sure to try a Moxie with your meal as well.
If you are planning a trip to Red's this summer here are some important tips:
The stand is cash/check ONLY!
There are two ATMs on site, but depending on how many people need to use them you might be out of luck. Lobster rolls can vary in price from $22-30 so plan accordingly.
The famous lobster roll is served with hot butter on the side
If you are a fan of the classic New England lobster roll served cold in mayo, be forewarned. The workers at Red's will give you one small cup of their homemade butter per lobster roll. If you think you want more than that, make sure you ask for extra up front!
Be prepared to wait in line
If you are heading up to Wiscasset on a nice, summer day, chances are so is everyone else in the state. The line can easily wrap around the block with wait times up to 2 or 3 hours. It is best to get to the shack earlier in the day before the dinner rush.
There is no official parking lot & not a lot of seating
I went to Red's during the off-season and we had no trouble finding parking on the street. There are also a few lots on the side streets near the Red's intersection, and they are clearly marked. So once you are on the main road, keep your eyes peeled for the signs. There are also only about 15 small tables set up behind the shack and a few picnic tables by the water, so you might want to bring a blanket.
It's definitely a tourist trap, but this one is actually worth it
Red's Eats is in no way, shape, or form a secret to lobster lovers out there. So naturally it draws a lot of customers each summer. Know that going to Red's is just part of the Maine experience. Be prepared to wait in line, and then take advantage of your opportunity to indulge when it's your turn at the order window. You won't be disappointed.
Not sponsored by Red's Eats.
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