Take a culinary expedition across Maine, a state which boasts hundreds of establishments from corner diners to gas stations, all serving succulent lobster rolls. A highlight of the American seafood experience, patrons revel in the sweetness of well-stuffed lobster meat housed in a traditional split-top bun, often accompanied by sides like fries and coleslaw.

While one enjoys these rolls, the view of the nearby seascape supplements the gustatory affair at the restaurants and seafood shacks. In fact, the cherry on top for many are the relaxing resorts and hotels offering the luxury of savoring a lobster roll while admiring the stunning Maine views from their rooms.

Portland, Maine's largest city, takes a unique approach to this delicacy. The city's restaurants depart from the typical split-top bun, substituting it with other types of bread. A fine example would be Eventide Oyster Co.’s brown-butter lobster roll, served in a delectable steamed bao, pushing the boundaries of this classic dish.

Despite starting as a brand in New York City, Luke’s Lobster has firmly grounded its roots back in Maine. Founder Luke Holden, a third-generation lobsterman from Maine, operates his signature restaurant at the end of Portland Pier. Guests enjoy a stellar view of the harbor whilst feasting on the restaurant's renowned lobster roll. The charming realization of a blend of Maine and Connecticut styles, where mayo and lemon butter elegantly unite, is indeed a delightful indulgence.

McLoons Lobster Shack on Spruce Head Island offers another variant of the lobster roll. This scenic waterfront outlet is famous for its lobster roll, offered up in standard quarter-pound or the hefty half-pound version, generously packed with tail, knuckle, and claw meat.

For those seeking luxury, Cliff House Maine is an excellent choice. This resort takes advantage of its grand location atop Bald Head Cliff, providing stunning ocean views. Their Maine-style chilled lobster roll served alongside slender steak fries at Nubb’s Lobster Shack is a favorite.

Family-friendly Nonantum Resort in Kennebunkport presents their lobster roll in a fluffy brioche bun. Tucked away in Camp Nonantum, it is savored best on the Latitudes rooftop overlooking the Kennebunk River or by the heated pool.

San Francisco’s Tartine Bakery expert Georgia Macon adds her creative touch to the Twelve’s lobster roll. Here, a crackly flaky puff pastry wraps around tender lobster meat. A deviation of the classic lobster roll, but a most delightful one.

The traditional shape of a lobster roll is further deviated by Sur Lie chef Mimi Weissenborn’s herbaceous hot lobster popover. This buttery creation oozes of cream of corn and buerre monté sauce, enveloping the claw meat within a light, airy pastry.

And finally, off the beaten path, there is the lobster pizza at Il Leone on Peaks Island. This beautifully charred Neapolitan-style pizza is topped with robust chunks of lobster, offering a new twist on this distinguished Maine dish.