We were on our way to Portland and saw all the great yelp reviews for Reds and wanted to stop there but when we saw the line we kept driving and stopped here instead - lobster stew and fried clams were delish! Sides of fresh rolls, coleslaw and fries also excellent. Prices seemed a little high. we don't mind paying more for good quality but it seemed like a lot for a basket a fried stuff. But maybe it's just market price? Anyway, it was yummy!
(4)
Emily C.
This restaurant was a quick-decision thanks to Yelp. We needed to stop and grab a quick bite traveling to Camden, and it was delightful. The prices are a bit on the steeper side, but you got a large serving of delicious seafood for the price. Being a Maine local - this is one of the better seafood places I've been to. The fried foods were just that - fried and crispy, not soggy or greasy like other places. Definitely recommended! Plus the facilities were very clean!
(4)
Steven P.
This place has changed in the last year. Portions have gotten smaller and prices are a bit high for what is on the plate. The staff is friendly and helpful.
(3)
Kelly B.
I've been here a few times and have never had a good meal. The food was rough at best and the service was lacking severely. Would not recommend this place. Employees are disrespectful and unprofessional and over I would not recommend this place to anyone.
(1)
m b.
I ordered the mixed basket dinner. This is haddock, clams, shrimp and scallop with biscuit and fries. I agree with some reviewers that the price is a little high for the amount of meat you actually get, but this was expected and not different from other, similar restaurants. The amount of food was more than enough for one person. The food was fresh and fried to perfection. I only eat fried seafood once or twice per year and am sorely disappointed when it is overcooked, I was very happy with my meal at The Sea Basket!
(4)
Martha C.
I've spent a lot of money here over the years and I think I'm done. Why? Because of the deceptive practices of management. My seafood combo basket included a roll, fries and assorted haddock, whole belly clams, shrimp, and scallops. $17.99. Once I downed a few well-fried clams I spied something darker brown nestled among the fries. I poked at it and noted that it was a second roll. Hmmm I thought as I unfettered it from the nest of french fries. Looks as though management is a little sneaky and has instructed the kitchen to staff to insert the extra roll in order to make the basket appear fuller. Even without this additional puffy carbohydrate, the fries equal or surpass the actual amount of fried seafood. Don't get me wrong, the seafood is very good but I really don't think the amount that you get actually warrants such a price. I counted 3 scallops, two small pieces of haddock about 15 shrimp and 5-10 clams. And without any background on the owner, I would venture to guess that he/she/they has/have some inexpensive source of seafood somewhere in the vicinity so this kind of price hike ensures an enormous profit. Sure, most customers are willing to fork over fistfuls of cash in order to eat the revered Maine fried seafood in all its legendary glory and probably don't bat an eye at the prices. But this kind of practice is unnecessary and insulting because the meal is advertised with a roll and there was one that was visible on the tray so I was surprised to see another buried in the basket. And furthermore, most of these types of places offer a small side of Cole slaw to balance out the flavors and have some kind of fiber among the fried food. But this was not an option - slaw was an additional charge. The view isn't even of anything special like say Harraseeket Lunch and Lobster or Youngs in Belfast. At least there you are getting that real Maine experience on prime seacoast real estate complete with anchored sailboats, tall pines and seagulls. Now on to the lobster stew for $14.99. Really? Mostly milky broth and some paltry chunks of lobster. For that price, I should not be able to move my spoon because the cup is overflowing with delicious lobster meat. That would be the Maine way of yesteryear. But of course, considering Wiscasset is one of the must-see mid-coast attractions, you're gonna have to deal with price gouging. It's inevitable and I'm one of those suckers who was born that minute. The food is pretty good, the atmosphere is cafeteria-like but clean and appropriate. It was a lovely day and that was the destination I had in mind when we set out. But I just don't think lunch for two should cost $35.00. And tap water was an extra $2.00 charge and it was a pretty small cup.
(3)
Heather D.
New ownership as of a few years ago. Just went back for the first time in a few years. I realize everything has to be market price....but for a half scallop half shrimp basket (not a platter) it was $18. For that price I truly think that the fries should be fresh cut from Maine potatoes everyday, and there should be a little cole slaw thrown in. Also the best part of the roll is biting into that freshly melting pad of butter. Where was the butter?!?! :( Nothing like biting into just a cold roll. I dunno, it just isn't quite up to the usual standards that it used to be. Upside is, my scallops and shrimp did taste good, (the haddock did not seem to be of the same quality as I had in previous years- different supplier?) I also went back for a crab meat roll, and that was also very good. I hope the new owners will consider my suggestions. :)
(3)
Alex P.
The haddock and scallops were pretty good but the fried breading could have been better. Very fresh though! I also enjoyed the cold slaw and the haddock soup. The soup was salty and peppery but tasty. The cole slaw was like KFC cole slaw. After all that food, I was thirsty but I didn't want soda. I would have liked some cold water, but I couldn't find any. The outdoor seating was comfortable but it was facing the parking lot and Main Street/ highway. It would have been better if there was a gate or bushes for a barrier. The inside seating needs to be renovated. The atmosphere was that of a cafeteria and the food is not cheap. It's priced for the tourists. Overall, it was very good with minor imperfections, but I will definitely be coming back!
(4)
Ron S.
This is the place that sets the bar for my wife & I. It's the best seafood in maine that we've found & I'm a native Maine ah
(5)
David M.
This is literally a deep fryer on the side of the road. "Fried with a vengeance" as my grandfather put it. It should be re-named The Sea of Frying Oil Basket. To be avoided for the sake of your own dignity. Awful.
(1)
Alex B.
A 5 minute drive from where I was working made Sea Basket very convenient for me to go during lunch or right after work for dinner. I had high hopes for this place and tried it 3 times hoping it would get better for me. Their lobster roll was served with a mound of sweet lobster but on a buttery subroll instead of a grilled hotdog bun and came in around $15. There lobster stew for $10 and easily the best thing I had here was delightfully creamy and I was practically punched in the face with lobster upon taking my first bite. The clam roll came on a round roll with a ton of clams for $10. I just wish they gave me more homemade tartar sauce on it. The atmosphere proved a minimal attempt at decoration with a couple little seafood related chachkies on the walls and ordinary booth tables (some of which were not wiped down). Overall it is a little dive seafood place with mostly fried items. I wish they had a few other options. It would also help if the people behind the counter didn't seem so unhappy when you came in. This was probably the only place during my time in Maine where I didn't feel as though everyone was extremely friendly. Maybe it was just because it seemed like a takeout type place, I dunno.
(3)
Kevin K.
If you like fried food, this is a good place to stop. The portions are generous, and the food was light and tasty -- not greasy. The lobster stew was good too.
(4)
David S.
A clean, well-lighted place with excellent fried seafood and lobster stew. You'll like it a lot.
(4)
J O.
Casual, clean and friendly. Plenty of parking. We had the haddock chowder and the lobster stew. Both were tasty. A 'bowl' is a large styrofoam cup - lobster stew was just under $15. Came with crackers and a dinner roll. Perfect place to swing in and have quick and easy seafood with good flavor!
(4)
Yuncong Z.
The lobster roll is good. The blueberry pie is quite small.
(4)
Jim S.
Considering the cost of fresh seafood everywhere. I don't find the prices unreasonable at all. And in probably 50 visits in the last 20 years, I've never had anything that didn't taste fresh (and I live on the Maine coast, I'm particular). Having said that, some people say that the breading on the fried seafood is bland. Maybe. Although it's good that it is not salty, or tasting like the 23 previous orders were cooked in the same oil. And it's the least greasy fried food I've ever had. Don't at all understand the comments to the contrary. My biggest issue is that the place has zero "local Maine" atmosphere. It's just a couple of rooms with plastic seats at plastic tables. And the view of route 1 traffic does not make for a great Maine dining experience. I do takeout a lot, but fried seafood does not take well to being transported 10 miles in closed containers - loses its crispness. If this place was on the water, it would be a gem, as the food is probably better than most "clam shacks". Lastly, it's dry, but again, a lot of "clam shacks" are as well, but you see people bringing their own refreshments at many of those places. It struck me odd that in all these years I never saw anyone who did BYOB at the Sea Basket. I asked a worker about this once and they said they don't have any problem with people bringing their own booze in. Perhaps the location on Route 1 attracts mostly people driving somewhere else (in which case the lack of booze is a good thing). Get it off route 1, put it in a bar, and do something about the sterile "school lunch room" atmosphere, and this place would be just great.
(3)
Chelsea L.
If you are interested in paying $10-$15 for a decent tasting roll, this is the place for you! Skip it if you're looking for lobster or shrimp roll. Additionally, I'm not sure what culinary genius thought the best way to eat small fried pieces of shrimp would be to try to eat it on a hamburger roll, but that's what you'll find here.
(1)
Sarah P.
Used to love the Sea Basket but alas I am not rich so I go about once a year. This year I was shocked at the even higher prices and then dissapointed at the sour faces of the people behind the counter. Having traveled around I know better than to think the "Maine sour faced help" is ok. I will not be back. Afraid I would do something to that nasty faced blonde...what is up with some workers in Maine?
(3)
Robert M.
Fish and chips were rather poor. The fish had a rubbery texture and the fries were bland.
(2)
Joey Y.
A must stop every time we come home. Fried seafood done exceptionally well. Surprisingly hard to find.
(5)
T R.
Excellent fried seafood....we have never been disappointed by this place.
(5)
Tim F.
I just moved to Maine in the past month and this is the place I've been looking for, not your stuffy pretentious white table cloth seafood restaurant. Oh I've eaten at several and they were really good. Sea Basket is the good old kind of place you order, pay your money, and wait for your number to be called. It's the kind of place everybody knows everybody else. Victoria, the buoyant cashier told me that if I ordered the seafood platter I wouldn't leave hungry and she was spot on, but I left satisfied with a little brown bag for morning munching. This place is a gem.
(4)
courtney c.
my boyfriends family used to own this restaurant. it has been sold to a new owner, but the food is just as good as always. the breading they use is less greasy and not clumpy like most places. everything is fresh and delicious. but it is pricey. but the amount of food and quality do make up for that. I do wish it was more of a restaurant than fast food atmosphere :)
(4)
Matthew L.
AWESOME. No frills but very clean, super-friendly staff, excellently prepared fried seafood - big portions, great range. Slightly pricey, but remember you ARE in mid-coast Maine...
(5)
David D.
The Sea Basket is a clean, tidy seafood eatery with a friendly staff, located on the southbound side of Route 1 with plenty of parking. It is my favorite place for fried seafood (my wife tells me that the Lobster stew is very good). I won't get into the eternal lobster roll debate. Fried seafood is seafood breaded or battered and then deep fried in very hot vegetable oil. It is always amusing to me when people are surprised to find some residual oil content in their fried food. The Sea Basket uses a special convection frying process that leaves the finished product much less greasy than any of the competition. Prices for quality fresh seafood are dictated by the seafood market prices. Closed Sundays
(5)
Jim C.
WICKED GOOD! This has got to be my favorite seafood eatery in all of Maine! The fried food is light, crisp, and full of flavor. One of my favorite things to order is their Lobster stew which is well balanced and very tasty. The staff are very friendly and helpful if there's ever a problem. Two thumbs up for this Maine classic!
(5)
Sara C.
After reading the reviews of YELP and wanting some fried clams, we decided to try the Sea Basket. Glad we did. It is right on Rt 1, very easy to find. You order your food and then can either sit inside or outside at one of the many picnic tables. The staff was nice and the food was really good. The fried clams were as good as I have had. Very tasty and crunchy. The jumbo clam platter was enough for 2 people. My wife also had some lobster stew which she said was fantastic.
(4)
Paula C.
We had to have a fish & chips fix. Glad your open again .... always good!
(5)
Paul B.
A place not to be missed or overlooked on Rt 1. $13 for an order of fried clams seems a bit steep. But it is worth every penny, since many lesser places serve an inferior product for not much less. I was driving home alone, back to MA, and had to keep moving. So an order of clam was perfect: just pop in a clam. Would have preferred hot sauce or tartar sauce, but that would have been, literally, an accicent waiting to happen. Naked clams, so to speak, and each one was as tasty as the last. Mouthfilling, full bodied, crunchy. 24 hours after the last one, I relived the experience with pleasure and can't wait to hit the Sea Basket on my next trip north.
(4)
Maya C.
Truly, the freshest, tastiest fried seafood in Midcoast ME. Not that cheap, but who cares? They offer some soups and other non-seafood snacks for those fools who won't eat seafood that you might have tagging along in your party. Comfy with kids, or without. Decor is about what you would expect for a fried seafood place on Rte. 1 in ME, but clean, and with plenty of seating since most of the locals do take-out.
(5)
Lindsey J.
It's a fried seafood stand and the food is greasy (as it should be), and it's extremely overpriced, but it is fresh and is a local landmark. The portions are enough for two people so sharing is a good idea. The place is clean and most people do take out, so there will be seating. In my opinion, the value isn't great because I've had better for cheaper in the area. But if you need a place to stop for seafood and don't want to get off Hwy 1, this is a better place than most. And if you really are in a rush you can order online or call in your order.
(3)
P R.
Best seafood in Maine! Perfectly cooked, batter is crisp - not soggy. Over the years I've had many different items - this trip we stuck to our favorites - lobster stew, fried clams, fried shrimp. The lobster stew is UNBELIEVABLE. The stew itself is very simple but it complements the lobster perfectly. The clams and shrimp are fresh and cooked perfectly. The batter compliments the seafood without over whelming it - so you can still taste the seafood. This is the gold standard for seafood in midcoast Maine - you really have to go to Portland to get better.
(5)
Nathen S.
Great fried food. I've been stopping in here for years...since I was a kid. It's always good.
(4)
joe r.
Oh, wow. The best seafood soups ever. The lobster stew was so rich that I think I fainted eleven times. The seafood chowder? Sub-frickin-lime. And a great lobster roll, too! Loved this spot.
(5)
Jess M.
Delicious fried clams. Very fresh... YUM!
(5)
C.D. J.
Excellent service ... Fantastic seafood.. And with out a doubt one of the most scrupulously clean restaurants I have ever had the privilege to dine in. My family spend and I spend six weeks in Maine at the end of the summer each year. We always look forward to dinning at the Sea Basket at very least once a week, sometimes twice if friends visit. I love the fried shrimp and lobster stew, the portions are beyond generous, I always leave with plenty for a midnight snack. The prices are very reasonable for the quality and amount of food you receive. Every time I drive past this little joint I want to pull in and chow down... So.. Chow down down East at the Sea Basket... Holy Smokes I wish I was there right now...
(4)
Jane P.
After hearing multiple Mainers, including my inlaws, rave about the onion rings and the fried seafood at Seabasket, I was looking forward to some greasy goodness. I must say I was a bit underwhelmed. Yes, the seafood was fresh. Yes, the breading was crisp. Yes, I know seafood is pricey these days. My fiance and I split the large assorted seafood basket - which seemed high to me at 20-odd dollars. The fried scallops, shrimp, haddock, and clams came piled atop a boatload of french fries, with some coleslaw and a huge, flaky biscuit on the side. Did anyone say carbs? My stomach still feels tight at the memory of that greasy seafood that turned to rock in my gut just minutes after I ate it. I had less than half the serving, and skipped the biscuit and fries. The onion rings were, indeed, fantastic. The scallops were fresh, juicy, and very flavorful. But the heavy and greasy breading overwhelmed them. The cafeteria-style booths and tables were all clean, and the bathroom was spic and span. There was a small but grassy outdoor picnic table area, albeit with a view of Rt. 1. This place isn't fancy, but who cares - it's not trying to be. Just a back-to-basics fast-food joint with a widespread reputation for providing great, fresh lobster rolls and fried seafood. And that's what it does...but it's not for me. Minus 1 star for the heaviness and greasiness of the breading. 4 stars - "Yay! My family is a fan, even if I'm not." Definitely a Maine coast classic.
(4)
Nat S.
Delicious food, but as far as the lobster rolls go they rank a B+. I ate there last summer and again yesterday to get a fair sampling of on and off season fare. They lose a star for their departure from a pure lobster roll and a couple of other infractions. 1) Lobster rolls should be served in a grilled, side split hot dog bun, not a toasted sub roll. The sub rolls they use stray from the ideal LTB ratio- Lobster to Bun (or bread). There is way too much bread masking the lobster. 2) Too much tail meat and not enough claws & knuckles, but still perfect mayo balance and darn tasty. 3) Green leaf lettuce? If you must adulterate a lobster roll with lettuce, use shredded iceberg. It is flavorless and doesn't interfere with the delicate balance of it all. 4) if you sell a lobster roll, you should sell a crab roll. They are always cheaper and afford a good lobster alternative when you are down on your ducats. 5) Price- Sea Basket charges too much for their location. $16.99 for a less than perfect, not so big lobster roll is too much. You get about 20% more of textbook roll at Morse's for $13.99. If Sea Basket were on a dock or the water the price would be justified. Enough complaining! The lobster meat was sweet and freshly shucked with visible tomalley green than ensures you aren't eating canadian fresh/frozen. Their fried food is spot on. The fried shrimp I had was perfectly brown and crisp with a well seasoned coating. Yesterday, they offered a native Maine shrimp and corn chowder special that was dee-lish (not a Rachel Ray fan). They are very convenient ,off Route 1 and the staff is always cheery. The place is extremely clean and tidy. The fact that they are year round is a plus too.
(4)
Justin C.
This place has the best lobster roll on God's green earth. Crustacial orgmasmatronics.
(5)
Kelly M.
We were up in the late fall so there wasn't as many of the allstar favorites to choose from as usual. We were big fans of the lobster stew and the lobster roll scored a fair B from us.
(4)
Dan B.
Voted the best lobster roll by Mainers and visitors alike, the Sea Basket is a little slice of fried seafood heaven on earth. Unlike the Route 1 competitors who slap a spoonful of mayonnaise-mixed "lobster" meat in a Wonder Bread hot dog bun and charge you $15, the Sea Basket version is done right. Nearly a whole lobster - no mayo, just some butter - lives inside a large homemade roll. To top it off, they carry a whole line of Whoopie Pies! Only Red's Eats, a bit further north, comes in a close second place.
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Specialities
Takes Reservations : No Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Lunch, Dinner Parking : Private Lot Bike Parking : Yes Wheelchair Accessible : Yes Good for Kids : Yes Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Casual Ambience : Casual Noise Level : Average Alcohol : No Outdoor Seating : Yes Wi-Fi : No Has TV : No Waiter Service : No Caters : No
Amanda K.
We were on our way to Portland and saw all the great yelp reviews for Reds and wanted to stop there but when we saw the line we kept driving and stopped here instead - lobster stew and fried clams were delish! Sides of fresh rolls, coleslaw and fries also excellent. Prices seemed a little high. we don't mind paying more for good quality but it seemed like a lot for a basket a fried stuff. But maybe it's just market price? Anyway, it was yummy!
(4)Emily C.
This restaurant was a quick-decision thanks to Yelp. We needed to stop and grab a quick bite traveling to Camden, and it was delightful. The prices are a bit on the steeper side, but you got a large serving of delicious seafood for the price. Being a Maine local - this is one of the better seafood places I've been to. The fried foods were just that - fried and crispy, not soggy or greasy like other places. Definitely recommended! Plus the facilities were very clean!
(4)Steven P.
This place has changed in the last year. Portions have gotten smaller and prices are a bit high for what is on the plate. The staff is friendly and helpful.
(3)Kelly B.
I've been here a few times and have never had a good meal. The food was rough at best and the service was lacking severely. Would not recommend this place. Employees are disrespectful and unprofessional and over I would not recommend this place to anyone.
(1)m b.
I ordered the mixed basket dinner. This is haddock, clams, shrimp and scallop with biscuit and fries. I agree with some reviewers that the price is a little high for the amount of meat you actually get, but this was expected and not different from other, similar restaurants. The amount of food was more than enough for one person. The food was fresh and fried to perfection. I only eat fried seafood once or twice per year and am sorely disappointed when it is overcooked, I was very happy with my meal at The Sea Basket!
(4)Martha C.
I've spent a lot of money here over the years and I think I'm done. Why? Because of the deceptive practices of management. My seafood combo basket included a roll, fries and assorted haddock, whole belly clams, shrimp, and scallops. $17.99. Once I downed a few well-fried clams I spied something darker brown nestled among the fries. I poked at it and noted that it was a second roll. Hmmm I thought as I unfettered it from the nest of french fries. Looks as though management is a little sneaky and has instructed the kitchen to staff to insert the extra roll in order to make the basket appear fuller. Even without this additional puffy carbohydrate, the fries equal or surpass the actual amount of fried seafood. Don't get me wrong, the seafood is very good but I really don't think the amount that you get actually warrants such a price. I counted 3 scallops, two small pieces of haddock about 15 shrimp and 5-10 clams. And without any background on the owner, I would venture to guess that he/she/they has/have some inexpensive source of seafood somewhere in the vicinity so this kind of price hike ensures an enormous profit. Sure, most customers are willing to fork over fistfuls of cash in order to eat the revered Maine fried seafood in all its legendary glory and probably don't bat an eye at the prices. But this kind of practice is unnecessary and insulting because the meal is advertised with a roll and there was one that was visible on the tray so I was surprised to see another buried in the basket. And furthermore, most of these types of places offer a small side of Cole slaw to balance out the flavors and have some kind of fiber among the fried food. But this was not an option - slaw was an additional charge. The view isn't even of anything special like say Harraseeket Lunch and Lobster or Youngs in Belfast. At least there you are getting that real Maine experience on prime seacoast real estate complete with anchored sailboats, tall pines and seagulls. Now on to the lobster stew for $14.99. Really? Mostly milky broth and some paltry chunks of lobster. For that price, I should not be able to move my spoon because the cup is overflowing with delicious lobster meat. That would be the Maine way of yesteryear. But of course, considering Wiscasset is one of the must-see mid-coast attractions, you're gonna have to deal with price gouging. It's inevitable and I'm one of those suckers who was born that minute. The food is pretty good, the atmosphere is cafeteria-like but clean and appropriate. It was a lovely day and that was the destination I had in mind when we set out. But I just don't think lunch for two should cost $35.00. And tap water was an extra $2.00 charge and it was a pretty small cup.
(3)Heather D.
New ownership as of a few years ago. Just went back for the first time in a few years. I realize everything has to be market price....but for a half scallop half shrimp basket (not a platter) it was $18. For that price I truly think that the fries should be fresh cut from Maine potatoes everyday, and there should be a little cole slaw thrown in. Also the best part of the roll is biting into that freshly melting pad of butter. Where was the butter?!?! :( Nothing like biting into just a cold roll. I dunno, it just isn't quite up to the usual standards that it used to be. Upside is, my scallops and shrimp did taste good, (the haddock did not seem to be of the same quality as I had in previous years- different supplier?) I also went back for a crab meat roll, and that was also very good. I hope the new owners will consider my suggestions. :)
(3)Alex P.
The haddock and scallops were pretty good but the fried breading could have been better. Very fresh though! I also enjoyed the cold slaw and the haddock soup. The soup was salty and peppery but tasty. The cole slaw was like KFC cole slaw. After all that food, I was thirsty but I didn't want soda. I would have liked some cold water, but I couldn't find any. The outdoor seating was comfortable but it was facing the parking lot and Main Street/ highway. It would have been better if there was a gate or bushes for a barrier. The inside seating needs to be renovated. The atmosphere was that of a cafeteria and the food is not cheap. It's priced for the tourists. Overall, it was very good with minor imperfections, but I will definitely be coming back!
(4)Ron S.
This is the place that sets the bar for my wife & I. It's the best seafood in maine that we've found & I'm a native Maine ah
(5)David M.
This is literally a deep fryer on the side of the road. "Fried with a vengeance" as my grandfather put it. It should be re-named The Sea of Frying Oil Basket. To be avoided for the sake of your own dignity. Awful.
(1)Alex B.
A 5 minute drive from where I was working made Sea Basket very convenient for me to go during lunch or right after work for dinner. I had high hopes for this place and tried it 3 times hoping it would get better for me. Their lobster roll was served with a mound of sweet lobster but on a buttery subroll instead of a grilled hotdog bun and came in around $15. There lobster stew for $10 and easily the best thing I had here was delightfully creamy and I was practically punched in the face with lobster upon taking my first bite. The clam roll came on a round roll with a ton of clams for $10. I just wish they gave me more homemade tartar sauce on it. The atmosphere proved a minimal attempt at decoration with a couple little seafood related chachkies on the walls and ordinary booth tables (some of which were not wiped down). Overall it is a little dive seafood place with mostly fried items. I wish they had a few other options. It would also help if the people behind the counter didn't seem so unhappy when you came in. This was probably the only place during my time in Maine where I didn't feel as though everyone was extremely friendly. Maybe it was just because it seemed like a takeout type place, I dunno.
(3)Kevin K.
If you like fried food, this is a good place to stop. The portions are generous, and the food was light and tasty -- not greasy. The lobster stew was good too.
(4)David S.
A clean, well-lighted place with excellent fried seafood and lobster stew. You'll like it a lot.
(4)J O.
Casual, clean and friendly. Plenty of parking. We had the haddock chowder and the lobster stew. Both were tasty. A 'bowl' is a large styrofoam cup - lobster stew was just under $15. Came with crackers and a dinner roll. Perfect place to swing in and have quick and easy seafood with good flavor!
(4)Yuncong Z.
The lobster roll is good. The blueberry pie is quite small.
(4)Jim S.
Considering the cost of fresh seafood everywhere. I don't find the prices unreasonable at all. And in probably 50 visits in the last 20 years, I've never had anything that didn't taste fresh (and I live on the Maine coast, I'm particular). Having said that, some people say that the breading on the fried seafood is bland. Maybe. Although it's good that it is not salty, or tasting like the 23 previous orders were cooked in the same oil. And it's the least greasy fried food I've ever had. Don't at all understand the comments to the contrary. My biggest issue is that the place has zero "local Maine" atmosphere. It's just a couple of rooms with plastic seats at plastic tables. And the view of route 1 traffic does not make for a great Maine dining experience. I do takeout a lot, but fried seafood does not take well to being transported 10 miles in closed containers - loses its crispness. If this place was on the water, it would be a gem, as the food is probably better than most "clam shacks". Lastly, it's dry, but again, a lot of "clam shacks" are as well, but you see people bringing their own refreshments at many of those places. It struck me odd that in all these years I never saw anyone who did BYOB at the Sea Basket. I asked a worker about this once and they said they don't have any problem with people bringing their own booze in. Perhaps the location on Route 1 attracts mostly people driving somewhere else (in which case the lack of booze is a good thing). Get it off route 1, put it in a bar, and do something about the sterile "school lunch room" atmosphere, and this place would be just great.
(3)Chelsea L.
If you are interested in paying $10-$15 for a decent tasting roll, this is the place for you! Skip it if you're looking for lobster or shrimp roll. Additionally, I'm not sure what culinary genius thought the best way to eat small fried pieces of shrimp would be to try to eat it on a hamburger roll, but that's what you'll find here.
(1)Sarah P.
Used to love the Sea Basket but alas I am not rich so I go about once a year. This year I was shocked at the even higher prices and then dissapointed at the sour faces of the people behind the counter. Having traveled around I know better than to think the "Maine sour faced help" is ok. I will not be back. Afraid I would do something to that nasty faced blonde...what is up with some workers in Maine?
(3)Robert M.
Fish and chips were rather poor. The fish had a rubbery texture and the fries were bland.
(2)Joey Y.
A must stop every time we come home. Fried seafood done exceptionally well. Surprisingly hard to find.
(5)T R.
Excellent fried seafood....we have never been disappointed by this place.
(5)Tim F.
I just moved to Maine in the past month and this is the place I've been looking for, not your stuffy pretentious white table cloth seafood restaurant. Oh I've eaten at several and they were really good. Sea Basket is the good old kind of place you order, pay your money, and wait for your number to be called. It's the kind of place everybody knows everybody else. Victoria, the buoyant cashier told me that if I ordered the seafood platter I wouldn't leave hungry and she was spot on, but I left satisfied with a little brown bag for morning munching. This place is a gem.
(4)courtney c.
my boyfriends family used to own this restaurant. it has been sold to a new owner, but the food is just as good as always. the breading they use is less greasy and not clumpy like most places. everything is fresh and delicious. but it is pricey. but the amount of food and quality do make up for that. I do wish it was more of a restaurant than fast food atmosphere :)
(4)Matthew L.
AWESOME. No frills but very clean, super-friendly staff, excellently prepared fried seafood - big portions, great range. Slightly pricey, but remember you ARE in mid-coast Maine...
(5)David D.
The Sea Basket is a clean, tidy seafood eatery with a friendly staff, located on the southbound side of Route 1 with plenty of parking. It is my favorite place for fried seafood (my wife tells me that the Lobster stew is very good). I won't get into the eternal lobster roll debate. Fried seafood is seafood breaded or battered and then deep fried in very hot vegetable oil. It is always amusing to me when people are surprised to find some residual oil content in their fried food. The Sea Basket uses a special convection frying process that leaves the finished product much less greasy than any of the competition. Prices for quality fresh seafood are dictated by the seafood market prices. Closed Sundays
(5)Jim C.
WICKED GOOD! This has got to be my favorite seafood eatery in all of Maine! The fried food is light, crisp, and full of flavor. One of my favorite things to order is their Lobster stew which is well balanced and very tasty. The staff are very friendly and helpful if there's ever a problem. Two thumbs up for this Maine classic!
(5)Sara C.
After reading the reviews of YELP and wanting some fried clams, we decided to try the Sea Basket. Glad we did. It is right on Rt 1, very easy to find. You order your food and then can either sit inside or outside at one of the many picnic tables. The staff was nice and the food was really good. The fried clams were as good as I have had. Very tasty and crunchy. The jumbo clam platter was enough for 2 people. My wife also had some lobster stew which she said was fantastic.
(4)Paula C.
We had to have a fish & chips fix. Glad your open again .... always good!
(5)Paul B.
A place not to be missed or overlooked on Rt 1. $13 for an order of fried clams seems a bit steep. But it is worth every penny, since many lesser places serve an inferior product for not much less. I was driving home alone, back to MA, and had to keep moving. So an order of clam was perfect: just pop in a clam. Would have preferred hot sauce or tartar sauce, but that would have been, literally, an accicent waiting to happen. Naked clams, so to speak, and each one was as tasty as the last. Mouthfilling, full bodied, crunchy. 24 hours after the last one, I relived the experience with pleasure and can't wait to hit the Sea Basket on my next trip north.
(4)Maya C.
Truly, the freshest, tastiest fried seafood in Midcoast ME. Not that cheap, but who cares? They offer some soups and other non-seafood snacks for those fools who won't eat seafood that you might have tagging along in your party. Comfy with kids, or without. Decor is about what you would expect for a fried seafood place on Rte. 1 in ME, but clean, and with plenty of seating since most of the locals do take-out.
(5)Lindsey J.
It's a fried seafood stand and the food is greasy (as it should be), and it's extremely overpriced, but it is fresh and is a local landmark. The portions are enough for two people so sharing is a good idea. The place is clean and most people do take out, so there will be seating. In my opinion, the value isn't great because I've had better for cheaper in the area. But if you need a place to stop for seafood and don't want to get off Hwy 1, this is a better place than most. And if you really are in a rush you can order online or call in your order.
(3)P R.
Best seafood in Maine! Perfectly cooked, batter is crisp - not soggy. Over the years I've had many different items - this trip we stuck to our favorites - lobster stew, fried clams, fried shrimp. The lobster stew is UNBELIEVABLE. The stew itself is very simple but it complements the lobster perfectly. The clams and shrimp are fresh and cooked perfectly. The batter compliments the seafood without over whelming it - so you can still taste the seafood. This is the gold standard for seafood in midcoast Maine - you really have to go to Portland to get better.
(5)Nathen S.
Great fried food. I've been stopping in here for years...since I was a kid. It's always good.
(4)joe r.
Oh, wow. The best seafood soups ever. The lobster stew was so rich that I think I fainted eleven times. The seafood chowder? Sub-frickin-lime. And a great lobster roll, too! Loved this spot.
(5)Jess M.
Delicious fried clams. Very fresh... YUM!
(5)C.D. J.
Excellent service ... Fantastic seafood.. And with out a doubt one of the most scrupulously clean restaurants I have ever had the privilege to dine in. My family spend and I spend six weeks in Maine at the end of the summer each year. We always look forward to dinning at the Sea Basket at very least once a week, sometimes twice if friends visit. I love the fried shrimp and lobster stew, the portions are beyond generous, I always leave with plenty for a midnight snack. The prices are very reasonable for the quality and amount of food you receive. Every time I drive past this little joint I want to pull in and chow down... So.. Chow down down East at the Sea Basket... Holy Smokes I wish I was there right now...
(4)Jane P.
After hearing multiple Mainers, including my inlaws, rave about the onion rings and the fried seafood at Seabasket, I was looking forward to some greasy goodness. I must say I was a bit underwhelmed. Yes, the seafood was fresh. Yes, the breading was crisp. Yes, I know seafood is pricey these days. My fiance and I split the large assorted seafood basket - which seemed high to me at 20-odd dollars. The fried scallops, shrimp, haddock, and clams came piled atop a boatload of french fries, with some coleslaw and a huge, flaky biscuit on the side. Did anyone say carbs? My stomach still feels tight at the memory of that greasy seafood that turned to rock in my gut just minutes after I ate it. I had less than half the serving, and skipped the biscuit and fries. The onion rings were, indeed, fantastic. The scallops were fresh, juicy, and very flavorful. But the heavy and greasy breading overwhelmed them. The cafeteria-style booths and tables were all clean, and the bathroom was spic and span. There was a small but grassy outdoor picnic table area, albeit with a view of Rt. 1. This place isn't fancy, but who cares - it's not trying to be. Just a back-to-basics fast-food joint with a widespread reputation for providing great, fresh lobster rolls and fried seafood. And that's what it does...but it's not for me. Minus 1 star for the heaviness and greasiness of the breading. 4 stars - "Yay! My family is a fan, even if I'm not." Definitely a Maine coast classic.
(4)Nat S.
Delicious food, but as far as the lobster rolls go they rank a B+. I ate there last summer and again yesterday to get a fair sampling of on and off season fare. They lose a star for their departure from a pure lobster roll and a couple of other infractions. 1) Lobster rolls should be served in a grilled, side split hot dog bun, not a toasted sub roll. The sub rolls they use stray from the ideal LTB ratio- Lobster to Bun (or bread). There is way too much bread masking the lobster. 2) Too much tail meat and not enough claws & knuckles, but still perfect mayo balance and darn tasty. 3) Green leaf lettuce? If you must adulterate a lobster roll with lettuce, use shredded iceberg. It is flavorless and doesn't interfere with the delicate balance of it all. 4) if you sell a lobster roll, you should sell a crab roll. They are always cheaper and afford a good lobster alternative when you are down on your ducats. 5) Price- Sea Basket charges too much for their location. $16.99 for a less than perfect, not so big lobster roll is too much. You get about 20% more of textbook roll at Morse's for $13.99. If Sea Basket were on a dock or the water the price would be justified. Enough complaining! The lobster meat was sweet and freshly shucked with visible tomalley green than ensures you aren't eating canadian fresh/frozen. Their fried food is spot on. The fried shrimp I had was perfectly brown and crisp with a well seasoned coating. Yesterday, they offered a native Maine shrimp and corn chowder special that was dee-lish (not a Rachel Ray fan). They are very convenient ,off Route 1 and the staff is always cheery. The place is extremely clean and tidy. The fact that they are year round is a plus too.
(4)Justin C.
This place has the best lobster roll on God's green earth. Crustacial orgmasmatronics.
(5)Kelly M.
We were up in the late fall so there wasn't as many of the allstar favorites to choose from as usual. We were big fans of the lobster stew and the lobster roll scored a fair B from us.
(4)Dan B.
Voted the best lobster roll by Mainers and visitors alike, the Sea Basket is a little slice of fried seafood heaven on earth. Unlike the Route 1 competitors who slap a spoonful of mayonnaise-mixed "lobster" meat in a Wonder Bread hot dog bun and charge you $15, the Sea Basket version is done right. Nearly a whole lobster - no mayo, just some butter - lives inside a large homemade roll. To top it off, they carry a whole line of Whoopie Pies! Only Red's Eats, a bit further north, comes in a close second place.
(5)