Shell Yeah! Maine’s Lobster Roll Ranked Among the Nation’s Best

Maine is known for a lot of iconic things.

There’s L.L. Bean, Stephen King, wild blueberries, Acadia National Park, Mount Katahdin, Cooper Flagg, bad drivers, potatoes, an entire county simply called “The County,” fiddleheads, and potholes, just to name a few. However, nothing truly dominates the scene quite like the lobster.

Lobster is Maine's Most Iconic Product

These sea critters are a force to be reckoned with in this state. From license plates to fine dining, the lobster is a delicious symbol of what makes Maine so special. It’s also quite the moneymaker, with Maine fishermen hauling in over $530 million in 2024.

With all of this catch coming to shore, Maine's culinary world has truly taken advantage, especially with one of the state's most well-known dishes: the lobster roll. And it just so happens that the rest of the country has taken notice.

This includes one of the most recognizable names in media: CNN. Editors at the news network recently published a list of the best sandwiches worldwide. The site featured 24 of the tastiest creations, and sure enough, the crustacean handheld made the cut.

One of America's Best Sandwiches is the Lobster Roll

This list is a true all-star lineup, heavy hitter after heavy hitter. Sandwiches like cheesesteaks, tortas, bánh mìs, Reubens, and po’boys are just a small sample of what’s featured. So, it's pretty special to see a dish that Maine has nearly cornered the market on earn a spot on such a prestigious list.

READ MORE: Monster Lobster Caught in Maine Could Be Over 100 Years Old

While it may have originated in Connecticut, nobody has perfected the lobster roll quite like Maine. And nowhere else is it more prevalent. You can find it everywhere—from fast food joints to fine dining restaurants. In fact, I can get a lobster roll from at least seven different places within five miles of my house—and I live in a rural community.

How Versatile is the Lobster Roll?

Maine lobster rolls come in every variety imaginable, with just about every topping you can think of. And we haven’t even gotten to the bread options yet. I’ve seen lobster rolls served on the classic hot dog bun, large sub rolls, and even beautifully golden puff pastry. The options and creativity seem endless.

Here is a little of why CNN included the lobster roll in best sandwich list.

...a summertime coastal treat piled with big chunks of steamed lobster meat that’s usually mixed with lemon juice, mayonnaise and herbs and tucked into a roll resembling a hot dog bun. You can find them at seafood restaurants across the United States. But a classic lobster shack on the stretch of coastline from Maine to Connecticut will make for a scenic backdrop that’s hard to beat.

Founded in New England, perfected by Maine, and loved by all. It's a true American classic that the whole world has fallen for, and just another example of how Maine and New England continues to show how to live right.