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Lobster Pie & More: Dining at Maine Diner

Featured on “Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives”

  • Episode Title: Season 9, Episode 13 — “Old Time Attitude”
  • Air Date: August 9, 2010
  • What Was Featured: Lobster Pie, Seafood Chowder, Codfish Cake

Is It Safe for Gluten-Free?

I’d read online that their famous lobster pie was only available gluten-free for shipping, but when we visited, they actually serve it fresh in-house!

About the Restaurant

The Maine Diner started in the early 1960s as a “retirement” project by Socrates “Louie” Toton, who wanted to spend his days gardening and avoided tourists by only opening in the winter. Louie grew produce right on the diner’s property and ran a small farm stand nearby. Fast forward to 1983, when the Henry brothers took over, renamed it Maine Diner, and turned it into the lively, friendly spot it is today — welcoming locals and tourists alike. Now owned by Jim MacNeill, a longtime manager turned owner, the diner prides itself on fresh, home-cooked meals served with genuine hospitality, plus their very own garden to keep things fresh. It’s a classic little New England gem right off Route 1 in Wells.

Gluten-Free Information Available?

They offer gluten-free breadcrumbs and bread. The staff was super knowledgeable about gluten-free options even though it’s not all clearly marked on the menu. The menu just notes that they have gluten-free bread available.

Date of Visit: August 5, 2025
Location: 2265 Post Road, Wells, Maine
Parking/Accessibility: The Maine Diner has its own free parking lot, which fills up quickly during the busy summer season. The building is easily accessible with ample seating but can feel cozy during peak times.

Lobster Pie with Broccoli and Cole Slaw (Gluten-Free)

  • Description: Fresh lobster chunks baked in a little casserole dish with buttery, well-seasoned gluten-free bread crumbs, served with drawn butter, steamed broccoli, cole slaw, and a corn muffin. The corn muffin is not gluten-free but Layla wanted it for herself.
  • Our Review: This was hands-down my favorite bite of the day. The lobster was tender and buttery, with just enough seasoning to let the seafood shine. I loved that there were big, meaty pieces — you could taste the freshness in every bite. The broccoli was simply steamed, which was the perfect light balance to the rich lobster pie. The cole slaw was crisp, creamy, and a great cool contrast. Layla was all about the corn muffin — sweet, moist, and tasting like it had just come out of the oven that morning.

Buffalo Chicken Tenders (Not Gluten-Free) with French Fries (Cross-Contamination) and Blue Cheese Dressing

  • Description: Crispy chicken tenders tossed in tangy buffalo sauce, served with crinkle-cut fries and chunky blue cheese dressing.
  • Our Review: These tenders had the classic buffalo flavor Layla loves — tangy with a good kick. They were a bit soggy, but hey, that’s what you get with dipped tenders (she always forgets to ask for the sauce on the side!). The fries were golden and crispy, and the homemade blue cheese dressing was the real star — thick, creamy, with big chunks of cheese that Layla absolutely devoured. Definitely a must-have for buffalo lovers.

Some might call the Maine Diner a tourist trap — and yeah, it’s busy and a bit cramped, especially in summer — but it’s a solid spot with charm and good food that keeps locals and visitors coming back. The noise level was manageable for us, and the staff was super friendly, making the whole experience feel welcoming and laid-back despite the crowd. The menu offers something for everyone, and their breakfast is served all day (yes, please!).

Gluten-Free Friendliness: ★★★☆☆
I’d give it four stars if the gluten-free options were clearly marked on the menu, but the staff’s knowledge made up for it.

Taste and Quality of Food: ★★★★☆
Fresh seafood, flavorful sauces, and thoughtful sides. Everything tasted homemade and satisfying.

Service: ★★★★★
Friendly, helpful, and full of great local tips — like the best nearby beaches to check out after your meal.

Overall Experience: ★★★★☆
Classic New England diner vibes — busy and cozy but totally worth it for a genuine taste of Maine.

If you’re planning a Southern Maine trip, definitely add the Maine Diner to your list. They’ve got the charm, the flavors, and enough gluten-free options to keep you happy (especially the lobster pie!). Plus, the breakfast menu is tempting enough to come back for seconds. It’s a real slice of New England with a warm, welcoming vibe that makes you feel like family.

Our next Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives adventure takes us to Gardiner, Maine in a few weeks. Be sure to subscribe for updates so you don’t miss a bite! If you’ve been to the A1 Diner, drop your favorite dishes in the comments — Layla and I love hearing your recs!

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