I have eaten some of the best seafood of my life in Maine.

Yes, the seafood is incredibly fresh.

But I think it is also because I am eating at family-owned restaurants that have been around for years.  Francine and Paul love good food and good value, and they showed me their favorite spots.

My Top 6 Seafood Eats in Maine

#1 – Lobster Roll

I didn’t even know what a lobster roll was before I arrived.

Francine explained it is lobster meat mixed with a little mayo (just enough to hold it together) on a hot dog bun.

Really?  A hot dog bun?

Francine and Paul insisted on taking me to the best place for my first lobster roll.  I was amused to see this small shack up on cinder blocks as we pulled off the road.

Tons of lobster meat with just a tiny bit of mayo served on a fresh toasted (this is key) hot dog bun.  Perfection!!

The lobster roll is like the state dish of Maine, so you can find it anywhere.  I suggest you get the best at Doug’s Seafood in Port Clyde.

#2 – Whole Lobster

This is a no-brainer.  There is a little work that goes into eating a whole lobster, but it is soooo worth it.

#3 – Crab Cakes

I have loved crab cakes for as long as I can remember.  I think I got that from my dad.  I have never seen him pass up crab cakes on a menu.

These crab cakes at The Slipway in Thomaston are the best I’ve ever had.

#4 – Fried Oysters

I like to think of myself as an adventurous eater, but I had never eaten oysters… until I got to Maine.

Francine and Paul suggested I start with fried oysters before I go for the raw oysters.

I’m not usually a fan of fried food, but these were perfectly cooked.  Not too much breading.  Not greasy.  I could really taste the oysters, and they were delicious.  Another great order at The Slipway.

#5 Mussels

I loved the presentation of these mussels, sautéed with garlic and fresh herbs.

#6 – Fish Cakes

These fish cakes from Cafe Miranda were a little fancier than most fish cakes, but I loved the spices and homemade sauce.

Don’t forget to pair your seafood with a cold local beer.

I love trying new beers, especially IPAs, and Maine did not disappoint.  There are lots of great breweries in Maine, and I am going to have to return to do more beer research.

Where to eat delicious seafood in Maine

• Cod End – Located in Tenants Harbor at the public landing.
• Doug’s Seafood – Located in Port Clyde outside the commercial part of the village on the main road.
• The Slipway – Located in Thomaston at the public landing.  Also has good selection of beer.  Don’t leave without eating one of the homemade pies made by the owner’s mother… incredible!  Here is the photo proof.
• Café Miranda – Located in Rockland.  In addition to seafood, there are many other dishes on the menu, and the beer list is huge.

Do you have a favorite seafood spot in Maine?