Tourism season is fast-approaching, and lobster shacks across Maine are preparing to open their doors to locals and visitors alike.
While few of them have yet determined what they’ll charge for the old standby lobster roll, there could be price hikes on the way, according to establishments that are now open.
The cost of meat is one factor. With lobster hauls diminishing as the crustaceans move north in search of colder water, prices have been increasing, and that can also push up the cost of Maine’s most famous seaside snack.
At the same time, the Trump administration’s trade war will also hit many Americans in their wallets, decreasing the demand for luxury foods such as lobster and putting more of a pinch on businesses. But not all restaurants may pass on their steeper costs to the customer, and in at least some cases, it’s still possible to find a lobster roll for under $30.
Here’s what a few restaurants around Maine’s coast are so far charging right now for a lobster roll:
Fisherman’s Net, Brunswick
This restaurant and seafood market located on Bath Road serves two different lobster rolls: a three-ounce and a six-ounce. The three-ounce roll is $26.99, which includes chips and a pickle, and the six-ounce is $40.99, according to an employee at the restaurant.
Lobster roll prices are a little higher than last year, the employee said, due to higher prices for the crustacean.
Cameron’s Lobster House, Brunswick
Right nearby Fisherman’s Net is Cameron’s Lobster House in Brunswick, which is charging $24.95 for a lobster roll with chips and a pickle, according to an employee. Prices here have increased, too, though the employee was unsure why.
Karen’s Hideaway, Boothbay
Nestled on Wiscasset Road in Boothbay is Karen’s Hideaway, a lobster shack that is serving lobster rolls for $35. Prices have gone up $5 since around this time last year, since the cost of lobster is up, according to an employee.
Young’s Lobster Pound & Seafood Restaurant, Belfast
This lobster pound in Belfast also serves its crustaceans on rolls. Here, prices actually haven’t gone up in the last several years, according to an employee — a lobster roll is still $34.95.
More lobster
There are other lobster shacks that the Bangor Daily News was unable to reach, but that publish their prices online. McLaughlin’s Seafood in Bangor lists a price of $38 per lobster roll, Boothbay Lobster Wharf lists $35.99 per roll, and Graffam Bros Seafood Market in Rockport lists $42 for a combo.
Debbie Gagnon, who owns the world’s most famous lobster shack, Red’s Eats in Wiscasset, said she doesn’t yet know what she’ll charge for rolls, since she won’t open until May 7.
Jules Walkup is a Report for America corps member. Additional support for this reporting is provided by BDN readers.