What should I order at The Lobster Shanty?
The Lobster Shanty
Lobster Roll
Mentioned numerous times as the best lobster roll in Salem, praised for its freshness, large portion size, and delicious taste, including the hot Connecticut style version that was rated extremely highly.
Lobster Mac & Cheese
Highly recommended for its exceptional creaminess and cheesiness, described as the best mac and cheese some reviewers have ever had, with fresh and tasty lobster pieces.
Clam Chowder
Noted for being high quality and scrumptious, a comforting choice especially appreciated in cold weather.
Onion Rings
Considered possibly the best onion rings some reviewers have ever had, praised for their taste and quality.
Lobster Pie / Lobster Casserole
Described as amazing and not to be missed, a favorite among families and recommended for those visiting Salem.
Crab Cake
Mentioned as absolutely delicious, adding to the variety of well-prepared seafood options.
Fried Platter
Shared by groups and described as delicious, providing a great variety of fried seafood.
Pulled Pork & Slaw
Highly recommended for its great taste, noted for standing out among the menu's diverse offerings.
Marinated Steak Tips
Praised for being phenomenal and well paired with sides like fresh chips and crispy tots.
Hours
| Monday | 12 PM to 12 AM |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 12 PM to 12 AM |
| Wednesday | 12 PM to 12 AM |
| Thursday | 12 PM to 12 AM |
| Friday | 12 PM to 12 AM |
| Saturday | 12 PM to 12 AM |
| Sunday | 12 PM to 12 AM |
About The Lobster Shanty
Bustling, informal eatery & bar with classic seafood & outdoor tables, plus live music on weekends.
Amenities & services
From the business
- Identifies as women-owned
Service options
- Outdoor seating
- Onsite services
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Live music
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
- Wheelchair accessible seating
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Coffee
- Comfort food
- Hard liquor
- Late-night food
- Wine
Dining options
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Bar onsite
- Gender-neutral restroom
- Restroom
- Wi-Fi
- Free Wi-Fi
Crowd
- LGBTQ+ friendly
- Transgender safespace
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
- Credit cards
Parking
- Paid parking lot
- Paid street parking
- Usually somewhat difficult to find a space
Pets
- Dogs allowed
- Dogs allowed outside
Frequently asked questions
What is The Lobster Shanty known for?
It is best known for lobster rolls, especially the traditional and Connecticut styles, which reviewers repeatedly call some of the best in New England. People also praise the clam chowder for being well seasoned and the lobster mac and cheese for being rich and very cheesy.
What dishes are most recommended at The Lobster Shanty?
The most frequently recommended items are the lobster roll, clam chowder, lobster mac and cheese, and tater tots. Reviewers also highlight the poutine, lobster grilled cheese, lobster pie, fried shrimp, and onion rings as standout orders.
What is the atmosphere like at The Lobster Shanty?
The vibe is described as casual, cozy, and a little dive-bar-like, with outdoor tables and occasional live local music that adds to the ambiance without being too loud. Reviewers say it works well for couples, families, and groups after exploring downtown Salem.
Is The Lobster Shanty good value?
The price range is listed at $20 to $30, and many reviewers describe the food as reasonably priced or fairly priced for Salem, though one review noted lobster rolls could run higher during busy times. Even with waits, people say the portions are generous and the quality makes the cost feel worth it.
When should you visit The Lobster Shanty if you want a shorter wait?
Several reviews say the line can get long in Salem during Halloween season, and getting there right when it opens helped avoid hours-long waits later in the day. In quieter periods, especially late in December, reviewers reported little to no crowding.
Is parking available at The Lobster Shanty?
Yes. Paid parking lot, Paid street parking, Usually somewhat difficult to find a space is available.
Restaurants like The Lobster Shanty in Salem
Why use AI food recommendations?
Skip the Menu
No need to trust waiters or get overwhelmed by the menu
Explained Choices
Provides context and explanations for why each dish is recommended
Find things to do & top restaurants in any city