In Maine, the lobster is king, and few do it better than Beal’s Lobster Pier in Southwest Harbor, which is mere minutes away from parts of the famous Acadia National Park. Or at least that was my experience during my honeymoon last week. Acadia is what attracted my newlywed wife and I to the area, but it was Beal’s Lobster Pier that offered a unique experience, because not only do they offer the freshest seafood, they make it fun, messy and something to always remember.
I had once experienced a similar type of restaurant in Aruba, to where fishermen would dock alongside the docks of the restaurant and then within minutes, the freshest of fish is cooked and served before you. And let me tell you, that was the best seafood I had ever had… Well, that is until I thoroughly experienced what Maine had to offer. Lobster, clams, mussels, shrimp, haddock, scallops and more are delivered fresh right to Beal’s pier, all year round, and even though they close from October to May, you can still get the freshest seafood from them.
When you walk into Beal’s, you’re greeted by a long rectangular tank, filled to the brim with living lobsters. The next part is the hardest, because choosing what you want from the myriad of delectable options is a bit of a chore, especially for those of whom have never been to Maine prior. On my first visit, I went with the classic fresh cooked lobster, which you must work to enjoy, but it is very rewarding, although quite messy. You use your hands and a few tools to crack open the claws, then the tail, fins, and body (if you’re into the tamale), and then as you move through each piece of the lobster, you douse it in a garlic butter sauce that sends your tastebuds soaring.
When you walk into Beal’s, you’re greeted by a long rectangular tank, filled to the brim with living lobsters. The next part is the hardest, because choosing what you want from the myriad of delectable options is a bit of a chore, especially for those of whom have never been to Maine prior. On my first visit, I went with the classic fresh cooked lobster, which you must work to enjoy, but it is very rewarding, although quite messy. You use your hands and a few tools to crack open the claws, then the tail, fins, and body (if you’re into the tamale), and then as you move through each piece of the lobster, you douse it in a garlic butter sauce that sends your tastebuds soaring.
I also tried the clam chowder, which was different than I was expecting, considering it was very liquified, compared to other variations where the use of cream creates a more creamy soup, but it was still very good with great flavor and spices. The next day, I returned to try the famous Lobster Roll, which is a healthy helping of fresh cooked lobster served with lettuce on a brioche bun, and is a fine alternative to cracking open your own fresh lobster. All in all, I came away very impressed with Beal’s, because not only is their food top quality, but the atmosphere of being right on the coast adds to the experience; the smell of the fresh sea air, the smell of the kitchen, and the hands-on approach is something everyone should experience, and from every restaurant I tried, Beal’s does it best.
Beal's Lobster Pier
182 Clark Point Rd
Southwest Harbor, ME 04679
(207) 244-3202
If you’re interested in learning more about Beal’s Lobster Pier, click here.
Beal's Lobster Pier
182 Clark Point Rd
Southwest Harbor, ME 04679
(207) 244-3202
If you’re interested in learning more about Beal’s Lobster Pier, click here.
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