Our search for the supreme Maine lobster roll continued around town this week at Gurnet Trading Co. and Brunswick Diner, though neither proed to offer the holy grail of lobster.
Gurnet Trading Co., Seafood and Spirits
Gurnet Trading Co. is a small seafood shack located a couple miles from Cooks Corner on Gurnet Road. This is not a place that typically shows up on lists of popular lobster shacks, nor is it a place you would necessarily stop by if not referred and directed there by a friend. We were initially enthused by the overall look and feel of the small seafood shanty. The building and the surrounding outdoor seating area, outfitted with big Adirondack chairs and picnic tables, was colorfully decorated with buoys and other maritime items. As we entered the shack, a pleasant aroma of fresh seafood filled our nostrils, and our mouths began to water in anticipation. Although we elected to eat inside due to bad weather, Gurnet boasts one of the nicest outdoor seating areas we’ve encountered.
While this was one of the least photogenic rolls we’ve tried, the freshness of lobster more than made up for the appearance, and the bun was toasted and buttered. Gurnet produces solid lobster rolls that highlight the freshness of the meat using minimal mayo, allowing the lobster to really stand out.
While Gurnet’s was not the best roll we’ve encountered, the picturesque setting and outdoor seating area present the perfect atmosphere to enjoy any meal. The $14 price was a bit excessive, and without any sides this roll is a little pricey.
Price: $$$/5
Roll: *** /5
Criticisms: A bit pricy considering bun size and lack of sides.
Overall: B
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Brunswick Diner
Brunswick Diner is a local landmark, well known to students for staying open 24 hours on weekend nights. With a sign out front boasting the “Best Lobster Roll in Maine,” we figured we couldn’t miss their version of this Maine staple. For those of you who haven’t seen or been inside of the Brunswick Diner, it is a quintessential diner with a long counter on one side with eight or so booths tucked next to the windows.
Brunswick Diner’s roll is comparable to many we have encountered so far, featuring a toasted and buttered hotdog-style bun, lightly mayo-ed lobster meat, and a piece of lettuce. The large gobs of claw and knuckle meat were a unique feature of this role, which we prefer to the shredded variety. Additionally, the roll was accompanied by fries and cole slaw. The sides were average, but considering the size of the roll they were a welcome addition—the $15 price necessitated their inclusion.
Considering the location and 24-hour availability, Brunswick Diner is a no-brainer for Bowdoin students searching for a taste of Maine. While it is by no means “Best Lobster Roll in Maine”, the diner certainly makes a very solid product.
Price: $$$/5
Roll: *** ½ /5
Criticisms: Fairly expensive, however the sides and claw meat made up for it.
Overall: B+