The Lobster Shanty.
1 / 10

The Lobster Shanty

4.6
·491k reviews·,

A lively, casual seafood eatery in Salem since the 70s, famous for its delicious lobster rolls and dive bar atmosphere with live music.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Wed/Fri 18-21h

Blue hour photography, calmer galleries

CrowdLow
The Lobster Shanty.

The Lobster Shanty

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A lively, casual seafood eatery in Salem since the 70s, famous for its delicious lobster rolls and dive bar atmosphere with live music.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"The Lobster roll was PHENOMENAL! 1000/10. Worth every penny though."

TIP

Try the lobster roll!

The hot Connecticut style lobster roll is a must-try, packed with sweet butter and fresh lobster.

Don't miss the tater tots

Sides like tater tots and French fries are popular and great for sharing.

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Closed·Opens Thursday 12PM

Cuisine

Seafood

Price

Mid-range

Phone

(978) 745-5449

Address

25 Front St, Salem, MA 01970, USA

Insta-Factor

Medium

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Iconic Lobster Rolls

Iconic Lobster Rolls

Savor the taste of Maine with their acclaimed lobster rolls, available in both traditional chilled and warm Connecticut styles.

Best Lobster Rolls
 | Archer HotelSalem's Best Lobster Roll Spots [2025 Guide]Google Review+2
Lively Dive Bar Atmosphere

Lively Dive Bar Atmosphere

Experience a cozy dive bar vibe with a casual setting, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere that makes for a fun night out.

The 52 Best Restaurants, Cafes, and More in Salem Right Now
Guy Fieri's Pick

Guy Fieri's Pick

Taste the buzz from Guy Fieri's visit, featuring his favorites like steak tips, pulled pork, and the unique 'Lobstertini'.

The 52 Best Restaurants, Cafes, and More in Salem Right Now
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Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Lobster Shanty in Salem, Ma 🦞🤤 #salem #salemmassachusetts #lobstershanty #lobster #fyp
@courtneyhernandezz
34 likes • 897 views

Try the lobster roll!

The hot Connecticut style lobster roll is a must-try, packed with sweet butter and fresh lobster.

Don't miss the tater tots

Sides like tater tots and French fries are popular and great for sharing.

Thanks Lobster Shanty in Salem i took it to go but i should not have tipped 15$ before i left assuming the food was ok (i like to eat in parks not restaurants so i take the food to go but i waited the full hour in line for it still)
@opleaseandrea
37 likes • 1.3K views
Final Salem birthday trip outfit reveal 🎉 Big shoutout to The Lobster Shanty for having the perfect bathroom for a shy girl’s OOTD video 🙈🦞 #salem #witchtok #witchyvibes #witchythings
@hotmessbadmom
53 likes • 460 views

Expect a crowd

It's a popular spot, especially during peak times. Consider off-peak hours or making reservations if possible.

Explore beyond seafood

While seafood shines, they offer other options, including vegetarian choices.

#lobstershanty #fishnchips #salem,mass
@theverg
27 likes • 579 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Try the lobster roll!

The hot Connecticut style lobster roll is a must-try, packed with sweet butter and fresh lobster.

Don't miss the tater tots

Sides like tater tots and French fries are popular and great for sharing.

Expect a crowd

It's a popular spot, especially during peak times. Consider off-peak hours or making reservations if possible.

Explore beyond seafood

While seafood shines, they offer other options, including vegetarian choices.

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

The Lobster Shanty is a bustling Salem spot praised for its iconic lobster rolls and lively, casual atmosphere, often enjoyed with outdoor seating and live music. While many rave about the fresh seafood and friendly service, some diners have noted issues with food quality, such as overcooked lobster or underwhelming seasoning, and occasional slow or inattentive service. Despite mixed reviews on execution, its reputation as a local favorite and Guy Fieri's endorsement keeps it a popular destination.

"Nice chill spot for drinks and food! We had the perfect storm cocktail and it was tasty. The poutine delicious, we shared a fried platter for 4 and the best was the lobster roll, so good, the best lobster I’ve had probably!"

Mike

"I was excited to finally try The Lobster Shanty after hearing so much about it, but the experience just didn’t deliver. We were seated quickly, and I really enjoyed the local pumpkin beer — that was a highlight. Unfortunately, service was quite slow despite the restaurant not being busy, and the food was disappointing. The $40 Connecticut lobster roll was completely overwhelmed by oil, which hid the natural flavor of the lobster. The chicken wings were also dry and lacked any real sauce. For a lunch that came to over $100, I left feeling let down rather than satisfied. Hopefully this was just an off day, because the setting and menu have real potential."

Corbmac McKay

"The Lobster roll was PHENOMENAL! I got the hot Connecticut style and it was 1000/10. $42 with a side of tots. Worth every penny though. Good fast service"

Megan Hubbard

What People Like

Phenomenal lobster rolls (Connecticut & traditional)
Cozy dive bar atmosphere with live music
Fast and friendly service

What People Dislike

Lobster can be overcooked or oily
Inconsistent service quality
Overpriced for some

Frequently Asked Questions

The lobster rolls, especially the Connecticut style, and the fish and chips are highly recommended.

Best Lobster Rolls
 | Archer HotelGoogle Review+1

Yes, the casual atmosphere and kid-friendly options like mac & cheese make it suitable for families.

Google Review

It's a bustling, informal eatery and bar with a cozy dive bar feel, often featuring live music.

The 52 Best Restaurants, Cafes, and More in Salem Right Now

Yes, The Lobster Shanty offers outdoor seating, perfect for enjoying a meal on a nice day.

Explore Dining Options in Salem, MA

The Lobster Shanty is seasonal and closed from mid-January through March. It's best to check their website for current hours.

The 52 Best Restaurants, Cafes, and More in Salem Right Now

During peak times, especially in October, they may not accept reservations to accommodate all guests.

Explore Dining Options in Salem, MAThe Ultimate Guide to Halloween in Salem The Ultimate Guide to: Halloween in Salem

Yes, Guy Fieri visited and featured steak tips, pulled pork, and the Lobstertini.

The 52 Best Restaurants, Cafes, and More in Salem Right Now

Yes, while known for seafood, they do offer options for vegetarians.

Mentioned in

Featured in these publications

Boston Magazine

The 52 Best Restaurants, Cafes, and More in Salem Right Now

This seasonal dive bar and seafood restaurant has been doing its thing in Derby Square since the 1970s, snagging plenty of media attention along the way. (Yep, Guy Fieri has been here; he featured steak tips, pulled pork, and the Lobstertini, a lobster-y take on a dirty martini.) The cheeky signage out front says it best: “Warm beer, lousy food, surly waitresses, rude bartenders, rowdy regulars, cranky cooks.” (There’s often trivia and live music, too.) Closed from mid-January through the end of March. 25 Front St., Salem, 978-645-5449, lobstershantysalem.com.

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Reviews of the 10 Best Seafood Restaurants in Salem MA 2024

The Lobster Shanty in Salem, MA, is a vibrant local gem that captures the essence of New England’s seafood tradition with its inviting atmosphere, top-notch service, and delightful culinary offerings. Nestled among the bustling streets of Salem, this restaurant exudes a lively charm that beckons both locals and visitors alike. During a cruise exploration, stumbling upon The Lobster Shanty and noticing a line, I knew it had to be promising.

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ToSalem

Salem Ma Restaurants - Halloween Picks

The Shanty’s one of the most venerable Salem Ma restaurants and it’s right in the middle of town, you can’t miss it. And if you see a raving lunatic in all black who’s screaming at the top of his lungs about HP Lovecraft’s connection to Salem, Massachusetts, well just go ahead and approach me and I shall bequeath you with my witticisms.

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Famous in New England, it only makes sense that they are popular in Salem. This shelled sea creature ranks in as the heaviest crustacean in the world, potentially weighing in at 44 pounds!. Although still large, 44 pounds is an exception to the lobsters you will most likely be eating; specimens in the one-to-nine pound range.

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archerhotel.com

Best Lobster Rolls | Archer Hotel

The Lobster Shanty in Salem offers a roll with 6 ounces of lobster served in a buttered, toasted roll, with a choice of side. The Traditional is served chilled, with the lobster tossed lightly with a lemon-mayo and diced celery on a bed of lettuce. The Connecticut Style is served warm, with lobster tossed in sweet butter.

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Boston Insider

Salem's Best Lobster Roll Spots [2025 Guide]

The Lobster Shanty in Salem offers an experience that combines amazing service with an array of mouthwatering seafood dishes. As I stepped inside, the cozy atmosphere welcomed me like a warm embrace. The friendly staff greeted me with enthusiasm and guided me through their menu, which was filled with culinary delights.

Visit Source →
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Explore Dining Options in Salem, MA

Located on the intersection of Front Street and Artist's Row, Lobster Shanty offers great outdoor seating and a stellar seafood menu. Seating is limited and the wait during peak times may be long--but Lobster Shanty is well worth the wait. Phantom Gourmet selected the Lobster Shanty as a Hidden Jewel in Salem.

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Finz ($$-$$$): Waterfront views only add to this restaurant that offers up delicious and sustainable seafood, sushi, and raw bar dishes as well as unique cocktails. *Bonus Tip: On Saturdays and Sundays throughout the month of October, they do not accept reservations so they can accommodate all of their guests.

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community.ricksteves.com

Salem Mass - Rick Steves Travel Forum

The Lobster Shanty is popular with tourists but I personally feel it has gone downhill over the last several years as their prices increased. For treats Goodnight Fatty has amazing cookies - they are only open at night until 10 pm and their cookie menu drops just before opening. Really inventive combos.

Visit Source →
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Salem Restaurants - Where To Eat and Drink in Salem

25 Front St. (978) 745-5449Great food, great service all served in a very casual atmosphere with absolutely no pretense. The Shanty has been serving the Good People of Salem for 30 years and is a local institution.You can even have beers with your dog on our patio, if the weather permits.

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wyndy.com

Fun Date Night Ideas in Salem, MA

Get creative with your partner at a paint night hosted by The Lobster Shanty. Unleash your inner artist as you follow along with a professional instructor to create a masterpiece together. Sip on cocktails and enjoy good conversation while you bond over a shared love for art.

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chasingdaisiesblog.com

25+ Best Restaurants In Salem MA For Every Vibe |

Salem is a coastal city in Massachusetts where you can find great seafood restaurants. The Lobster Shanty is one of those places!. This local hot spot is super popular for the lobster dishes that they serve, including lobster dinner, lobster roll, and lobster spaghetti.

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The Lobster Shanty - This is a very casual spot to grab a beer with friends. The food is great, but I’ve always been here to have a few casual drinks and amazing tater tots!. If you’re looking for a more affordable, laid-back spot in Salem this is a good option.

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NBC10 Boston

Where to Eat in Salem, Massachusetts – NBC Boston

You can either dine indoors or out at The Lobster Shanty, though sitting on the patio is the best way to do some people-watching while dining on such dishes as clam chowder, lobster mac and cheese, a fried scallop roll, lobster casserole, poutine and burgers.

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Celestial Navigation Astrology

What to eat in Salem Massachusetts

⭐️ Lobster Shanty: I should probably give the shanty 2 or even 3 stars but I don’t go here very often. I don’t know why, I really should. It’s great food, and they’ve even been on Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives.

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The Odyssey Online

The Hocus Pocus Lover's Guide To Salem, Massachusetts

This is the tiny spot you find on vacation that's way better than you think. Sadly, a lot of other people have found it too and there's often a line on weekends - so pick odd hours or get there first thing!

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Nightflow.com

Salem Nightlife • A Complete Guide [2025 February Update]

The Lobster Shanty welcomes anyone who wants to relax and have fun. Its patio also welcomes pets. It takes all measures during these difficult times that may include sanitizing the tables and chairs.

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Things to do in Salem with Kids

Restaurants like The Lobster Shanty and Howling Wolf Taqueria serve up delicious meals that cater to both young and adult palates. These eateries often provide kids’ menus and welcoming atmospheres.

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reddit

what’s the best Lobster Roll in/around Salem? : SalemMA

I’m not a lobster roll connoisseur by any means but The Lobster Shanty and Joes on a Roll in Beverly haven’t done me wrong.

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Family-Friendly Fun & Kids' Activities Await!

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