Featured on ‘Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives’
Episode Title: Season 10, Episode 2 – Tried and True
Air Date: September 6, 2010
What Was Featured: Fried Clams (Original and Lillian’s Way), Lobster Stew
While the fried clams aren’t gluten-free, the lobster stew is a solid choice.
Bob’s Clam Hut is an institution in coastal Maine. Since 1956, they’ve been serving up golden, crispy seafood fresh off the docks, drawing both locals and tourists alike. The place has that classic New England seafood shack feel—small, unpretentious, and built for fast, fresh eats.
The location is hard to miss, sitting right off Route One in Kittery, next to the massive Kittery Trading Post. It’s the kind of spot that always has a line in the summer, full of families fresh off a day of outlet shopping or road-trippers looking for an authentic taste of Maine.
Seating is a mix of indoor and outdoor tables, and on a warm day, sitting outside is a must. Yesterday, I even saw a family braving the outdoor picnic tables in 45-degree weather, bundled up and determined to enjoy their seafood in the crisp Maine air.
Website: https://bobsclamhut.com/
Bob’s Clam Hut makes it easy to spot gluten-free options. Their menu has clear GF labels, both online and in the restaurant. While a good chunk of their menu is fried seafood (which isn’t safe for gluten-free diners), they do offer a few solid choices, including gluten-free buns for sandwiches (with a small upcharge).
One thing I always appreciate is when a restaurant is upfront about cross-contamination risks. Bob’s has disclaimers both on their website and inside the restaurant, but the staff seems knowledgeable and willing to double-check ingredients if you have concerns.
- Date of Visit: February 28, 2025
- Location: 315 US Route One, Kittery, Maine
- Parking & Accessibility: The parking lot is small, but you can easily park next door at Kittery Trading Post, which has plenty of space.
I was flying solo on this visit, out in Kittery for some merchandising work while Layla was home sick. We were hoping it was just a cold, but as of this morning, she tested positive for COVID, so we’ll be laying low for a bit.
Funny enough, even though I only live about an hour away, this was my first visit to Bob’s. I usually avoid Kittery in the summer because of the crowds, and I just assumed Bob’s closed for the winter like many other seafood spots. Turns out, they’re open year-round (closed on Wednesdays), and even in the off-season, they had a steady stream of customers.
Lobster Stew (Gluten-Free)
The lobster stew wasn’t marked gluten-free on the menu, so I asked, and they confirmed it was safe. That said, it typically comes with a roll and oyster crackers, which I skipped.
Now, this isn’t what I’d call a traditional Maine lobster stew—at least, not the kind my mom makes. Classic lobster stew is mostly lobster, cream, butter, and a little onion. That’s it. No potatoes, no extra veggies. Bob’s version leans more toward a chowder, with potatoes, carrots, celery, and a thicker base. But I won’t complain—it was still really good. The lobster was fresh, and they didn’t skimp on the amount.
The one thing that always throws me off is when a menu lists “market price.” I never know what I’m walking into with that. But for this visit, the stew was $14, which felt like a fair price for a solid portion of fresh lobster.
French Fries (Gluten-Free)
The fries were fresh, hot, and perfectly crispy—just the way I like them. My only complaint? No white vinegar. I know it’s not super common outside of New England and Canada, but vinegar on fries is a game-changer. I figured a classic Maine seafood shack might have some, but no luck.
Ease of Finding Gluten-Free Options:
Gluten-free items are clearly labeled both online and on the menu boards inside the restaurant. While the fried seafood isn’t safe, they do offer gluten-free buns, lobster stew, salads, and a few other choices.
Staff Knowledge:
The staff was friendly and helpful. When I asked about the lobster stew, they double-checked for me instead of just assuming, which I always appreciate.
Cross-Contamination Safety:
Bob’s does a lot of deep-fried seafood, so there’s always a risk of cross-contamination. They’re upfront about it with disclaimers, but they do their best to minimize risks. If you’re highly sensitive, it’s worth asking extra questions before ordering.
The vibe at Bob’s is exactly what you’d want from a classic roadside seafood shack—casual, no-frills, and built around good food. Even in the winter, there was a steady flow of customers, which speaks to how much people love this place.
Inside, the decor is simple but charming, with plenty of small details that give it personality. In the summer, I imagine it would be a great spot to grab a meal and sit outside with the fresh ocean breeze.
Would I come back? Absolutely—though next time, I’d love to visit in the warmer months. Maybe in a few years when we’re back visiting family.
We rate each restaurant on the following scale:
- Gluten-Free Friendliness: ★★★★☆
Taste and Quality of Food: ★★★★☆
Service: ★★★★☆
Overall Experience: ★★★★☆
Bob’s Clam Hut is a great stop if you’re in the area, whether you’re gluten-free or not. While fried seafood is the star of the show, they do offer a few gluten-free options that are worth trying. If you’re in Kittery and looking for a taste of Maine, it’s definitely worth checking out.
Next Stop: Stay tuned as we continue our journey visiting more gluten-free gems from Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives!
Travel Turtles 