The Legend of Red's Eats

It is arguably the most recognizable restaurant in Maine: a tiny, red-and-white striped shack sitting at the edge of the Sheepscot River bridge in Wiscasset. And in front of it, there is always—always—a line.

Red’s Eats has been featured on Netflix, the Food Network, and in countless magazines. It is famous for one thing: a lobster roll that contains an obscene amount of meat.

The Roll

The Red’s Eats lobster roll is not a salad. It is a pile.

• The Meat: Each roll contains the meat of more than one whole lobster (tails, claws, and knuckles). It is fresh, never frozen.
• The Bun: A simple hot dog bun, griddled with butter.
• The Condiments: It comes plain. You get a side of Kate’s Maine Butter (melted) or mayonnaise. You choose how to dress it.
• The Size: It is physically difficult to eat. You usually have to eat the top layer of lobster with a fork before you can pick it up.

The Line (and How to Survive It)

In July and August, the wait can be 1 to 2 hours.

• Why so slow? Everything is made to order in a tiny kitchen.
• The Strategy:
  1. Arrive Early: Get there at 11:00 AM right when they open.
  2. Go Late: The line often dies down after 7:00 PM on weekdays.
  3. Bring Water: The line is on the sidewalk, often in direct sun.
  4. Chat: The line is part of the experience. You will meet people from all over the world.

Is It Worth It?

This is the eternal debate.

• The Skeptics: Locals will tell you that you can get a lobster roll just as good (and cheaper) at Sprague’s across the street with zero wait.
• The Believers: There is no denying the quantity and quality of the meat at Red’s. It is a bucket-list food experience.

Menu Beyond Lobster

If you are dragged there but hate shellfish:

• Fried Scallops: excellent.
• Hot Dogs: surprisingly good (snappy natural casing).
• Whoopie Pies: massive.

Location: 41 Water St, Wiscasset Season: Mid-April to Mid-October. Cash Only (ATM on site).