Lobsterman's Wharf Restaurant and Bar - Boothbay, Maine

Lobsterman's Wharf is a favorite waterfront restaurant for locals and tourists alike. The food and service are consistently good. The place epitomizes the spirit of Maine, being laidback, friendly but unobtrusive, and efficient. It is a place to relax and have a good time.

Possibly the best ocean view in Boothbay is from Lobsterman's large outdoor deck. It is casual with picnic tables with umbrellas and waitstaff sporting sunglasses. There is table service. Many a patron "arrives by boat," therefore there is sea traffic to contemplate as you sip your frozen margaritas.

The interior of Lobsterman's is dedicated to all things nautical: boats, fisherman, lobsters and ships. Lobsterman's has been built piecemeal, starting as a self-service fish shack and evolving into a full-service, three hundred-person-a-night restaurant. The indoor eating area pays tribute to its evolution with photos of the varying stages of construction. The bar area is the hull of an old tugboat. Every nook has some paraphernalia with a story. There are buoys and anchors, photos of old and current employees, signs with funny "Mainisms," such as "you can't get there from hee-ah," paintings and sculptures by local artists. One customer noted that it "looks like all the stuff a man collects that his wife won't allow him to keep in the house."

That man is Hilary Heaton, and along with his wife Kathleen, they have run the place for over 35 years. Many of the employees have worked there for years as well. They all seem to have a great "Lobsterman tale" from seasons past. Everyone is very knowledgeable of the restaurant and area's history.

The food at Lobsterman's is very good. The menu runs the gamut from baked-stuffed lobster to sesame-encrusted tuna. Most of the seafood is local, including their Damariscotta Oysters. They have the usual Maine fried seafood fare of shrimp and haddock and clams. There are also burgers, steaks and sandwiches.

Boothbay is a drinking town and that being said, the bar at Lobsterman's is one of the best. Their drinks are strong and delicious. For an extra dollar you can get twice the amount in a "bucket" served in a pint glass. Many a patron claims they "make the best Bloody Mary's in the world." The view of the water can be enjoyed from both the inside and outside bar.

Lobsterman's has a casual atmosphere where one can kick back and celebrate. Be warned, rudeness isn't appreciated and will often be countered with the same. They only take reservations for 6 or more, but the place is large and the wait is usually short. Cozying up to the bar for a short wait should be appreciated. The staff will be sure to cater to your needs as quickly as possible if you're friendly and patient. They may even throw in a joke or story of seasons past to entertain you if you're lucky.