Crosby’s Drive-In Is A Little-Known Maine Restaurant That’s In The Middle Of Nowhere, But Worth The Drive

One could argue Maine itself is in the middle of nowhere, being so far north, but if you really want to get off the beaten path on your way to Acadia National Park, take a detour to Bucksport on the Penobscot River estuary for Crosby’s Drive-In.

In 1938, Elton ‘Fat’ Crosby and his wife Margaret opened Crosby’s Drive-In, which has seen only three different owners during its existence. Today, it remains a popular snack stand in this historic community an hour west of Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park.

The main attraction is, of course, the seafood, with the fried clams being especially popular.

This being Maine, you’ll also find stellar lobster rolls, crabmeat rolls, and scallops. Pick French fries or onion rings as your side.

If you’re not in the mood for seafood, the menu also covers hamburgers, chicken, and steak sandwiches.

For dessert, there’s plenty of Maine-made ice cream.

What’s better? This place won’t break the bank, with most meals coming in around $5-15. Many of their ingredients are sourced locally and sustainably, including their bread, beef, and of course their seafood.

There is no indoor seating here, but grab a bench outside the stand to enjoy your picks. There’s even a covered patio just steps away from the order counter.

While you’re in historic Bucksport, check out the town’s shops, riverside walkway, and movie theater.

There’s also historic Fort Knox, a 19th-century coastal fortification with a 420-ft observation deck on top of the Penobscot Narrows bridge nearby.

Crosby’s Drive-In is open seasonally, typically from mid-April to Labor Day weekend. During those months, the restaurant is open 10:30 a.m.-8 p.m. seven days a week.

Have you visited Crosby’s Drive-In? What are some of your favorite roadside stands in Maine?