If there’s one thing you have to do during your trip to Bar Harbor, it’s eat at a lobster pound. Because when I think of lobsters, I think of Maine. They just go together in my mind. So you don’t want to miss out this quintessential aspect of your trip. It’s time to discover the best Bar Harbor lobster pounds.
Now I’ve traveled to Bar Harbor with my family for years and I’m not going to say we eat lobster (in some form) every day…but I can’t say we haven’t either. My Dad and I in particular just love lobster.
And the absolutely best place to eat Maine lobster is a lobster pound. And though the best pounds are outside of Bar Harbor proper, they are worth the drive.
Bar Harbor is a charming seaside town on Mount Desert Island known for its incredible natural beauty and as the gateway to Acadia National Park. But it’s also a top culinary destination, especially for fresh Maine lobster!
As a born-and-raised Mainer, I’ve compiled this guide to my favorite authentic local spots to savor juicy, sweet lobster in Bar Harbor. Follow my recommendations to experience lobster like a true local!
Thurston’s Lobster Pound – A Rustic, No Frills Local Favorite for 50+ Years
For an authentic Maine lobster shack experience, head to Thurston’s Lobster Pound Overlooking beautiful Frenchman Bay, this rustic spot has been a beloved local institution since 1968
Thurston’s has no heat lamps or frills – just delicious, fresh-off-the-boat lobster Order at the counter, then find a picnic table on the deck I recommend the lazy man’s lobster dinner with coleslaw and corn on the cob.
The atmosphere is laid-back and comfortable You can even pick live lobsters right from their tanks! Thurston’s gets busy in summer, so aim for an afternoon arrival It’s a 10 minute drive north of downtown Bar Harbor.
The Chart Room at The Claremont Hotel – Elegant Oceanfront Dining Since 1884
For a more upscale lobster experience, the Chart Room at the historic Claremont Hotel can’t be beat. Situated right on the ocean, this elegant restaurant has been serving impressive lobsters in Bar Harbor since 1884.
While pricy compared to shacks, the Chart Room’s baked stuffed lobster and generous cold water tails are fantastic. The wraparound deck overlooking Frenchman Bay makes for a memorable meal. Jackets are required for gentlemen after 6 pm.
In addition to lobster, indulge in their fresh local oysters, crab cakes, and creative cocktails. Definitely save room for dessert like wild blueberry crème brûlée! Reservations are strongly recommended.
The Fish House – Affordable No Frills Lobster Rolls Right Downtown
For tasty budget-friendly lobster rolls minus the fuss, check out the Fish House right downtown. This order-at-the-counter spot has picnic tables outside and is favored by locals.
Their lobster rolls overflow with fresh chunks of lobster meat lightly dressed in mayo on a grilled bun. I like to pair mine with a cup of their hearty clam chowder. You’ll leave happy without breaking the bank!
Trenton Bridge Lobster Pound – Worth the Scenic Drive for Straight from the Traps Lobster
This authentic lobster pound is tucked away about 20 minutes from Bar Harbor, but it’s worth the drive for lobsters literally straight from the traps!
Situated right next to the scenic bridge over Mt. Desert Narrows, Trenton Bridge has a laidback BYOB vibe. Snag a picnic table overlooking the water and crack into tender, deliciously sweet lobster. Don’t skip their addictive homemade blueberry cake for dessert!
The Burning Tree – Creative Lobster Dishes Plus Backyard Games
Just outside Bar Harbor, this hip restaurant and tavern offers a fun outdoorsy atmosphere with bocce, cornhole, a horseshoe pit, and backyard bar.
In addition to traditional lobster rolls, they serve creative fusion dishes like lobster tacos and lobster mac and cheese. Outdoor seating encourages mingling, music, and games for a unique local experience paired perfectly with lobster!
Tips for Eating Lobster Like a True Local in Bar Harbor:
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Seek out authentic lobster shacks vs tourist traps for the freshest lobsters straight off the boats
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Be open-minded about trying spots with touristy reputations – if the food’s good, locals love them too
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Opt for casual counter-service spots for affordable tasty lobster rolls without the fuss
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Head just outside town for unique spots like Trenton Bridge with phenomenal fresh lobster worth the drive
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Come at off-peak times to avoid crowds and enjoy a relaxed pace and experience
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Don’t just get lobster rolls – try a stuffed lobster, lazy lobster dinner, or fusion lobster dish for a taste of local creativity!
By following this insider’s guide to lobster dining like a Bar Harbor local, you’ll be guaranteed to find the most authentic and delicious Maine lobster experiences in this iconic coastal town. Just come hungry and ready to crack some claws!
Bar Harbor Lobster Pounds
Thurston’s Lobster Pound was the first lobster pound I ate at on Mount Desert Island. And it’s so good, I’ve gone back every visit. It’s also a local favorite as well, with some saying it’s the best lobster in Bar Harbor. (So you know it’s doubly good).
It’s located on Bass Harbor, so it’s quite a drive from Bar Harbor. But it’s totally worth it, trust me.
Bass Harbor is located in the southwest of Mount Desert Island. And it’s also considered like the most local of the harbors. In other words, this is the fisherman’s (or lobsterman’s) harbor.
If you’re headed to the Bass Harbor Lighthouse, then this is a great stop for lunch or dinner! (Check out my Bar Harbor itinerary for more details on the lighthouse.)
Now Thurston’s is quite large, mostly because it’s quite popular. But it’s also got that lobster pound atmosphere since it literally sits on a dock jutting out over the harbor. And you can watch the lobster boats dock at Thurston’s with the day’s catch.
And though they are popular, they also have several seating areas (both inside and out) and even when we’ve had to wait in line for 20 minutes before ordering, we’ve still found seats.
The only non-lobster pound aspect about Thurston’s is their extensive menu. They do offer quite a bit more than the standard pound fare, but I give them leeway on this. Since they are so popular, many families come here. Sometimes with a non-seafood lover in tow. So Thurston’s has a few items to cater to these people.
What do I order at Thurston’s? I’m a bit lazy when it comes to my lobster, so I tend to lean towards the rolls. But for every trip to Bar Harbor, I make the effort to eat at least one whole lobster. And I usually do this at Thurston’s.
Now if you’re ordering lobster, you might find yourself wondering, what is the difference between a hard shell and a soft shell lobster?
For one, hard shell lobsters have a harder shell. They’re also more expensive per pound. But they also have more meat than a soft shell lobster. Thurston’s got a wonderful, quick comparison chart of the two if you want to know even more.
I tend to go soft shell just because it’s cheaper, but I think next time I want to go hard shell to avoid the water (and the mess). Bibs can only do so much you guys.
Beal’s is a working fish and lobster pier in Southwest Harbor. Their restaurant is open from June through September, but the rest of the year they’re still hauling in the seafood. So when you go for some lobster, you know it’s fresh.
Southwest Harbor is a beautiful little community and definitely deserves some of your time. After you’ve gotten your fill of small shops, head on over to the pier to get your lobster on.
Like Thurston’s, Beal’s also has an extensive menu. So you can find a bit more than the standard lobster, roll, clams fare here. Which makes it a great choice for families or groups that have that person who can’t stand lobster or seafood in general. (Who are these people?)
Beal’s has two main seating areas, but if it’s nice out, definitely go for one of the picnic tables on the pier. You’ll have better views of the harbor and be able to watch the lobstermen arrive in their boats and unload the lobster on the pier. Just remember your jacket because even on a sunny day in September, the breeze off the water can get you.
What do I order at Beal’s? My sister went for a traditional roll and some oysters. My parents are whole lobster kind of folks. But I decided to go for the lobster burger. And it was fantastic!
Next time though, I’m definitely going to try one of their lobster roll variations (spicy buffalo!!!).
Trenton Bridge Lobster Pound
Trenton Bridge Lobster Pound is located just over the bridge from Mount Desert Island. So if you’re headed to Bar Harbor (or headed home), it’s a perfect stop.
Plus it feels super traditional. Right on the water, very limited menu, and wood-fired boilers right out front. That’s right you guys. If you feel intrepid, you can watch them boil your lobster in their seawater-filled cookers.
Or if it’s a little cool (like it was for us), you can grab a seat inside or out on their protected patio. I loved the more rustic feel here.
However don’t let that make you think it’s not popular. When we went, we could barely stand inside the screened door the line was so long. So be prepared to spend some time here if you come during peak hours around lunch or dinner.
What do I order at Trenton Bridge? Well, I’ve already said I’m a lobster roll kind of girl. So I got a hot lobster roll here. But this is a great place to order a lobster and watch them boil it in one of their traditional cookers out front!
C-Rays was our first stop on our last visit. It’s on the north side of Mount Desert Island and right on the way into Bar Harbor. I wanted my lobster fix asap, and C-Ray’s was a perfect first stop!
This lobster shack definitely has that super authentic, rustic feel. Small counter service with limited, lobster-focused menu? Check. Picnic Tables and nothing fancy? Check. Delicious lobster? Big check.
Seriously, I think my roll at C-Rays had the most meat in it than any other roll I had for the rest of the trip. (And I’m not going to say I probably eat upwards of 8 rolls in a 2 week period, but…I think I do.)
It was that good you guys. Plus we got a blueberry pie to go when we left and it was the best dessert for the rest of the week. You cannot beat homemade blueberry pie in Maine.
The only downside to C-Rays, and I don’t think it’s a big one, is that it’s not directly on the coastline. But their lobsters are sourced from local fishermen and the waters around Mount Desert Island. Plus this is a family business with a history of lobstering.
What do I order at C-Rays? As I mentioned above, the lobster rolls here were packed with meat. Like seriously over-flowing. If you are a lobster roll fanatic, definitely go for a roll here. And don’t forget some blueberry pie too if you have a kitchen where you’re staying!
C-Ray Lobster in Bar Harbor, Maine
FAQ
What is the best month to eat lobster in Maine?
Summer is the best time for lobster in Maine. In summer, mature lobsters shed their hard shells for a new shell that is significantly larger—and softer.
What is Bar Harbor Maine known for food?
Bar Harbor is proudly known for our fresh seafood – caught, delivered, cooked, and served straight from the boat – you’ll have more than just lobster making your mouth water. From shrimp, scallops, and crab; to haddock, flounder, clams, and oysters – Mount Desert Island’s sea-to-table options are endless.
Which town in Maine has the best lobster?
What better place to start sampling Maine’s abundance of fresh seafood than Boothbay Harbor, where lobster is harvested fresh daily? This charming seaside town is home to the best places to get lobster in Maine!
Does Maine have cheap lobster?
Yes, lobster is generally cheaper in Maine compared to other places, especially during the peak lobster season, which runs from late June to late December. Maine is known for its lobster fishing, and the abundance of local supply can lead to lower prices.