The Lobster Shanty

Wonderful servers and great food! Couldn’t complain about that, especially the large portions, which were very nice. The way they prepare their lobster is excellent. The problem that lies with The Lobster Shanty is with their overly gruff host who sat us and may be the owner as well. Not sure... I understand we’re in a pandemic and you have a lot of hungry tourists who may teeter on being annoying sometimes. I also understand that seating is limited because of the pandemic. However, the host could be more pleasing to his customers if he truly tried. Using the phrases, “Please”, “Thank you”, “You’re welcome”, “We appreciate your flexibility”, “We’re sorry for the inconvenience”, and “Have a nice rest of your day” would be useful vocabulary for him to use more. Attempting to smile when appropriate is always a plus as well. He did not seem like he enjoyed his job at all, especially when he lazily and unenthusiastically prepared the table umbrellas before his day began at noon. I say this as someone who works in the food/restaurant service industry. I hope he finds the right direction and spirit in his line of work because, compared to him, the servers and cuisine offered here are top notch.

Only my second time having a lobster roll and I went with the Connecticut style, warm with butter. Delicious! The portion was large and it was perfectly prepared with chunks of tender lobster. The staff was friendly and attentive. They are taking appropriate precautions and the tables are well distanced under a tent top on the patio. Would absolutely recommend to anyone visiting Salem.

Owner/host is pretty rude. Their chili "soup" was definitely not a soup. The special Bloody Mary is super overrated. The Paloma was absolutely terrible. And how do you run out of New England clam chowder! The traditional lobster roll was great, the Connecticut style was my absolute favorite, which is the only reason why I'm giving it a second star.

Food was good. Waitstaff was attentive. Although, I have to agree with the review below me. When we arrived, instead of greeting us or telling us we arrived a few minutes early the host rudely said "Yes.....?" as if he was unsure why we were there. It was an odd interaction. We said "Oh, we are interested in a table" and then he abruptly told us to wait by the bench. We watched as he coldly told other people to get in line. I understand we are in a pandemic and we have no problem waiting to be seated... but this attitude leaves for a bad impression. If we weren't so hungry we would have taken our business to another restaurant in town that seemed more welcoming.

We ordered takeout (thanks covid), and oh my lord we have never had lobster rolls this divine - and as takeout no less!! We opted for the Connecticut style (warm lobster, lots of butter), and the quality AND quantity of lobster was phenomenal. Fresh lobsters, cooked to perfection. They give you so much that it almost doesn't all fit onto the roll, the pieces of meat were big and we each had an entire claw piece of meat in our portions. The clam chowder is hearty, thick, insanely packed with flavor, and warms the soul. Highly recommend this place, worth the wait. (Ordered online, was ready in 1hour. The time stated on the order for when the food was ready was very accurate).

We went here for a late-ish lunch and it was awesome. The best onion rings either of us have ever had. Service was fine, the waitress was friendly and attentive. Drinks were great. I ordered the lobster roll Connecticut style and it was delicious, better than any lobster roll/dish I’ve had in Maine (though admittedly have only been to Maine once).

My fave local place! I could have but decided not to give a star less for waiting about 25 min to be seated... when it's busy just be prepared to wait - it's worth! They have a little ground floor terrace when the weather is nice that's what you are going to wait for. I initially was not going to wait as I was not even noticed but then started to chat and everything was fine. Food came in good time my first choice of the Millionaire Burger (asked without bun) you can see how great it looked and it tasted just as well. The sweet potato fries was crispy and just as I like it. So I decided to do another visit and went for the Guiness Marinated Steak Tips again with sweet potatoes fries. Wow! Loved it and they made it how I like it - so please don't judge the restaurant for the crispy outside of the steak: that's on me! 😋 The restroom is in ground level: no stairs but the hallway is a bit narrow therefore unsure if wheelchair can easily make it, but potentially good. The waiters and waitresses are friendly and remember the details of your order. Will be back for some salad and lobster roll; hardly can wait! 🌞