Mabel's Lobster Claw

124 Ocean Ave., Kennebunkport, ME - (207) 967-2562

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Posted By Michael Stern on August 17, 2007 10:03 AM

I think of shore dinner as a festive meal descended from Algonquin clambakes in which clams and corn were layered in seaweed over hot stones; the modern version is built around lobster and clams. Mabel's is a good place to enjoy it. Start by spooning into creamy chowder crowded with pieces of clam and potato, then tackle a good-size lobster perched atop a pile of steamers and accompanied by broth and butter. Corn, potatoes, and beets are available on the side. If fudge cake is available, it must not be ignored; but the essential dessert is peanut butter ice cream pie.

Mabel's lobster roll is top-of-the-line, served with fries and slaw on an actual, non-disposable plate. The meat in the roll, glazed with a thin film of mayo, is juicy, fresh, and copious, some chunks so large that you feel a little embarrassed picking it up and eating it out of hand; a knife and fork seem more suited to the task. And the lobster stew, generously apportioned with double-bite size pieces of claw and knuckle meat, is legendary.

The ambience at Mabel's is old-fashioned, summer-resort serene. Wood-paneled walls are decorated with autographed pictures of the many celebrities who have visited here, including local householders George and Barbara Bush (he likes baked stuffed lobster; she goes for eggplant parmesan). But you don't have to be a big name to feel right at home in this comfy shoreline dining room where paper placemats explain how to eat a lobster and the staff of swift waitresses just naturally suggest that any piece of pie you order ought to be had à la mode.

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Posted By David White on July 6, 2010 9:33 AM

Absolutely the best Lobster I have had any place in the world. Stuffed with Olysters the Lobster is outstanding. When we travel to Maine a visit to Mabel's is a must. It is worth the trip.

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