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

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Blue hour photography, calmer galleries

The Lobster Shanty

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

Quick Facts
Cuisine
Seafood
Price
Mid-range
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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

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.

Guy Fieri's Pick
Taste the buzz from Guy Fieri's visit, featuring his favorites like steak tips, pulled pork, and the unique 'Lobstertini'.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
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.
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
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
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
The lobster rolls, especially the Connecticut style, and the fish and chips are highly recommended.
Yes, the casual atmosphere and kid-friendly options like mac & cheese make it suitable for families.
It's a bustling, informal eatery and bar with a cozy dive bar feel, often featuring live music.
Yes, The Lobster Shanty offers outdoor seating, perfect for enjoying a meal on a nice day.
The Lobster Shanty is seasonal and closed from mid-January through March. It's best to check their website for current hours.
During peak times, especially in October, they may not accept reservations to accommodate all guests.
Yes, Guy Fieri visited and featured steak tips, pulled pork, and the Lobstertini.
Yes, while known for seafood, they do offer options for vegetarians.
Mentioned in
Featured in these publications
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.
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.
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.
What to Eat in Salem, MA
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.
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.
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.
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.
The Ultimate Guide to Halloween in Salem The Ultimate Guide to: Halloween in Salem
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
SALEM, MASSACHUSETTS TRAVEL GUIDE - A “LOCALS” GUIDE FOR TOP FOOD, SHOPS AND ATTRACTIONS
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit