New Brunswickers know… There’s just something about a coastal takeout window that feels right.
It’s the paper plate piled high with seafood. It’s the echoey speaker when they finally call your order number. It’s the gulls circling overhead, hoping for a dropped fry or two. And it’s most definitely the fact that everything tastes better near the ocean.
If you know, you know: some of the best meals on the East Coast don’t come with a reservation. They come wrapped in a brown paper bag or on a cafeteria tray, best enjoyed at a picnic table, in your car in a parking lot, on a wharf, or on the beach with your toes in the sand.
It’s a spot along a coastal route — somewhere you’d naturally pass on your way to a seaside vacation town, the beach, or to catch a ferry. Often, it comes with an ocean view. Occasionally, it’s a short drive from the shore but totally worth the slight detour. It’s also predominantly takeout: maybe a few tables inside, but the real experience is grabbing a feast of clams or lobster rolls and enjoying it seaside.
And most importantly, it’s known for its seafood: lobster rolls, fried clams, and fish and chips. Pairing beautifully with a summer road trip.
Here are my top picks for go-to coastal takeout spots in Southeastern & Southern New Brunswick that are absolutely worth the detour if you find yourself in the area or if you’re looking for an excuse to go for a drive along a scenic route.
You can’t roll into St. Andrews by-the-Sea without stopping at the Clam Digger in Chamcook: it’s a local staple. Whether it’s clams, scallops, or fish and chips, this is peak seaside indulgence. Known for generous portions and some of the best fried clams around, hence the name, there are plenty of non-seafood options if you’re craving something different. Clam Digger is takeout and outdoor dining only—perfect for grabbing your order and heading to one of the many nearby oceanfront spots to enjoy them with a salty sea breeze and a view.
I followed a rumour on my shell phone all the way to St. Martins to see if the rumours were true. Does Spinney’s Seafood truly have the best lobster roll in New Brunswick? And honestly, it lives up to the hype. Packed with generous chunks of lobster and served on an oversized, buttery roll that somehow makes room for even more, it’s the kind of takeout that’s hard to beat (especially at just $23 for a lobster roll). I can’t say for shore it’s the best in the province… but it’s definitely sitting at the top of my list.
An absolute classic around these waters, Chez Leo is pure nostalgia for me—childhood summers, salty swims, and begging my parents to end the day with fried clams. Famous for a reason, people travel from all over for their legendary clams (and honestly, they live up to every bit of the hype), though the full menu has plenty to choose from. There’s both indoor and outdoor seating, but in peak summer, expect a wait, knowing it’s worth it every single time.
If you’re heading to Deer Island this summer, Ocean View Take Out is a can’t-miss stop for a classic coastal feast with a view to match. Perched just minutes from the L’Etete ferry, this spot lives up to its name with a spacious oceanfront deck that’s perfect for soaking up salty air between bites and often peeping playful seals below. You may even spot the Grand Manan Ferry sailing in the Bay in the distance. I’m a big fan of their lobster roll, their fried clams, and the fish burger, which boasts a piece of haddock that is quite literally nearly a foot long! It’s takeout and outdoor dining only.
Want to know where to find this mermaid on a perfect summer day? Likely at Euston Park Parlee Beach—drink in hand, lobster roll or bar clam dip on the table, soaking up those golden summer vibes. This elevated “beer garden” experience flips the typical beach canteen on its head, serving up standout dishes like their seafood poutine alongside seriously crave-worthy seafood snacks. Chef Gene’s bar clam dip is a must-order. Just keep in mind it’s fully outdoor and weather-dependent, so check ahead on rainy days before heading to the beach.
Our go-to on Grand Manan Island, Sunrise Seafoods in Woodwards Cove, is always worth the short drive from North Head. Island favourites like fried clams, halibut bites, and scallops never miss, but the real star is their legendary lobster roll, piled high on a buttery homemade bun (spring for the large and thank me later), with a Gull’s Nest on the side as a must-order. Just plan ahead: it’s cash only, takeout and outdoor dining only, and wait times can pop up on busy summer evenings—so calling ahead is a pro move.
If you’re in the Lobster Capital of the World, you go all in, and Lenny’s Takeout delivers every single time, which is why it’s one of my go-to spots in Shediac. A local classic known for the iconic giant chicken out front and a menu with something for everyone, it’s a must-stop whether you’re visiting or live nearby. Mermaid-approved order: fried clams with a side of lobster roll, best enjoyed year-round with both indoor seating and a sunny outdoor picnic area.
I’m often asked who makes the best fried clams in New Brunswick, and while I usually say there’s no clear winner, Ossie’s Lunch is always in the conversation, especially thanks to their incredible fried clams and unreal homemade tartar sauce. The portions are generous, the seafood is fresh, and it has that “locals know” energy. If you’re travelling anywhere in Charlotte County, Ossie’s is well worth the detour for mermaid-approved fried clams that truly live up to the hype. Just know before you go: it’s takeout and outdoor dining only, cash only, and wait times can stretch from 15 minutes to over an hour, so bring your patience. The wait is always worth it!
If you’re spending the day in Alma or exploring Fundy National Park, Fundy Take-Out is a must-stop right at the edge of the action—perfect for a post-hike feast or midday refuel. Known for their Fisherman’s Platter, it’s the fried clams that have my mermaid heart every single time. They’re crispy, delicious, and just the right portion. There’s a mix of indoor seating and outdoor tables, but during peak summer, expect a bit of a wait—it’s popular for a reason.
A bit of a hidden gem in Charlotte County and exactly the kind of place you tell your friends about, only if you really like them. Jonesies Take Out (formerly Pennfield Take Out & Snack Bar) has officially become our go-to stop when catching the Grand Manan ferry in the spring and summer. It’s the kind of stop that turns into a tradition and where they remember your name. Or in my case, know me as “the Mermaid.” The burgers are next-level (the Vick Jones is out of this world), made with high-quality meat and somehow not greasy at all, plus the service is chef’s kiss—they’ll even bring your order right to your car. It’s takeout and outdoor dining only, with a cute on-site picnic area, but trust me… this one’s a 10/10, and I’m always planning my next stop.
Ponzi’s has been a Bouctouche staple for decades, and after a charming refresh a few years back, it’s become just as much about the vibe as it is the seafood. If you’re spending the day exploring La Dune de Bouctouche or Le Pays de la Sagouine, it’s the perfect stop for a mermaid-approved lunch or supper—think fried clams, lobster rolls, and seafood poutines that locals rave about. Bonus: there’s a cozy indoor dining space, so it’s a great option rain or shine.
A stop at Comeau’s Seafood is practically a rite of passage if you’re exploring this stretch of the coast. Known for their perfectly fried clams as well as their classic fish and chips, it’s the kind of place that delivers exactly what you hope for from a roadside takeout. Like most beloved coastal spots, you can expect a bit of a wait after placing your order, especially during peak times, so come with a little patience. There is indoor seating, which is a bonus. And they are known for their seniors’ menu, especially the seafood platters. It’s a big hit with both our parents!
The best coastal meals aren’t fancy. They’re fresh, a little messy, and eaten with an ocean view, whenever possible. So consider this your sign to skip the reservations, follow the shoreline, and order at the window.
And don’t forget: napkins are non-negotiable and always ask for extra tartar sauce.
Disclaimer: This post was not sponsored in any way. All opinions & rave reviews are my own.