Every week I venture into the grocery store, head towards the fish department, and check the prices on lobster. The truth, however, is that I don’t really want to buy it from the store. I’d much rather get it straight from the source which, in most cases, is in the great state of Maine.

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There’s nothing quite like a steaming plate of fresh lobster, the crack of the shell, and the sweet salty taste of lobster meat mixing with hot melted butter. In reality, though, no one knows how to prepare a Maine lobster better than the folks who handle the delectable beasts all year long. Want to taste something really spectacular? Try a lobster dish from one of these great locations.

10. Five Islands Lobster – Georgetown, Maine

At Five Islands Lobster in Georgetown you’ll  enjoy not only a perfectly cooked lobster but a spectacular seaside atmosphere as well. Start by choosing your live lobster from the tank and, if you so desire, add some corn on the cob to your plate. There’s no seating inside Five Islands Lobster, so when your food is ready you’ll take it outside where you can lounge on the deck, watch the boats on the bay, and enjoy your food in peace.

9. Shaws Fish & Lobster Wharf – New Harbor, Maine

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New Harbor found its place on the map after the hit movie Message in a Bottle was filmed there years ago but Maine locals always knew about this gem in the rough. New Harbour is a true fishing town – an amazing place to watch fishermen deliver their daily catches or to hear stories in Shaw’s bar.

Photo: hajime7

The most popular dish at Shaw’s Fish & Lobster Wharf is the lobster roll – shredded chunks of lobster meat mixed with just a hint of mayo and lemon juice and then served on a scantily buttered hot dog roll. It may sound strange but the 10,000 people who ate them last year are proof it’s a dish worth trying.

8. Morse Lobster at Estes Lobster House – Harpswell Neck, Maine

A visit to Estes Lobster House, while it’s only a short drive from the main highway, will leave you feeling as if you’ve discovered a missing village. The restaurant, located between Potts Harbor and Harpswell Sound, features a fire pit surrounded by dozens of outdoor tables. The folks here are serious about their lobster. Who needs a pair of lobster crackers when you can use your bare hands?

7. Clam Shack – Kennebunkport, Maine

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Kennebunkport is well known as the vacation spot of choice for the Bush family, yet on the side of the road you’ll find something a little less presidential – the Clam Shack. The owner, Steve Kingston, refuses to use knives to shred the lobster meat he serves with butter or mayo (or both) on a roll. He thinks metal knives will destroy the taste of the meat before it can be eaten.

6. Chauncey Creek Lobster Pier – Kittery Point, Maine

Chauncey Creek Lobster Pier is located not on the ocean, but on the bay. Make sure you come prepared as Chauncey Creek serves lobster and lobster alone. Alright – they have a raw bar, too, but nothing else. You’ll need to bring your own beverages, salads, and anything else you might want to have with your lobster – which you’ll choose from a live tank. Choose to enjoy your mail at a picnic table on the dock or in the screened in deck – it’s up to you.

5. Waterman’s Beach Lobster – South Thomaston, Maine

You’ll definitely appreciate a trip to Waterman’s Beach Lobster – a place where families can enjoy the beach just outside of busy Rockland. At the end of each day the local fishermen steam their lobsters over a bed of salt water in order to keep the meat firm. Gather the family around one of the two dozen picnic tables and dig in before heading back to the beach to hunt for shells or fly a kite.

4. Red’s Eats – Wiscasset, Maine

There’s a bridge on Route 1 leading in and out of the town of Wiscasset. During the summer months the line of traffic waiting to cross the bridge is unbearable but locals know there’s relief on the other side in the form of Red’s Eats. Here you’ll be served a hot dog roll stuffed with the meat of an entire lobster. Your condiments will be served on the side and, if you’re brave, you can take that sandwich back on the road with you to enjoy as you sit in a parking lot of traffic.

3. Harraseeket Lunch & Lobster – South Freeport, Maine

The Freeport area is a popular destination for avid outlet shoppers but discounted clothing isn’t all that the area has to offer. On the marina you’ll find Harraseeket Lunch & Lobster – an incredible little restaurant dedicated to serving the juiciest lobster in Maine. Make sure you order a side of “onion middles” while you’re there, too!

2. Barnacle Billy’s – Ogunquit, Maine

Ogunquit is popular amongst tourists in Maine and for good reason. This little seaside town is home to some of the most breathtaking views in Maine. Head on over to Barnacle Billy’s and find a seat on the deck. While there you’ll enjoy not only a spectacular lobster roll but the best clam chowder you’ve ever tasted in your life.

1. Bagaduce Lunch – Brooksville, Maine

This incredible restaurant is by far the best seafood takeout joint in all of Maine. Bagaduce Lunch has been in business for over 50 years and serves incredible lobster rolls, fried haddock, and a number of other seafood dishes. If you’re lucky you might be able to nap a table outside. Otherwise, you’ll have to take your treats with you on the road.

Image Credit: thevieve

Is your mouth watering for a big juicy lobster? Forget the grocery store. Pack your bags and head to Maine!