Welcome to New England, where every dish tells the story of its people. This charming corner of the U.S. is famous for its sweeping coastlines, quaint villages, and, of course, its food. The flavors here are as varied as the landscape, from the freshest seafood plucked straight from the Atlantic to the crisp apples harvested in rolling orchards. New England food offers a delicious blend of history and tradition that dates back centuries.
As you sail through this incredible region on one of our unforgettable New England cruises, there’s a lot to explore, and that includes the local fare. But don’t worry, your guide is here to help you navigate the must-try foods that define New England.
Lobster
When it comes to New England foods, lobster is king—a title it’s held since the colonial era. In fact, lobster was so abundant in the 17th century that it was often considered a poor man’s food, served only to prisoners and indentured servants. Oh, how times have changed. Today, lobster is a delicacy, with the sweet, succulent flavor of New England lobster being unrivaled.
And let’s not forget the famous food of New England debate: the lobster roll. Connecticut versus Maine. In Connecticut, they do things a little differently, serving up warm lobster drenched in melted butter—rich, indulgent, and oh-so-satisfying. Meanwhile, in Maine, the lobster roll is served cold, mixed with a touch of mayo and sometimes celery, offering a cool, refreshing take that’s perfect for summer days.
Try both and pick a side on our New England Fall Foliage cruise. See how lobstering is still a part of the thriving communities along Maine’s stunning coast.
Clambake
The New England clambake is a tradition that dates back to the Native American tribes who originally inhabited the region. Long before the arrival of European settlers, the Wampanoag people were perfecting the art of the clambake, cooking shellfish, corn, and other local ingredients in pits lined with hot stones and covered with seaweed. This method of steaming not only enhanced the flavors but also infused the food with a distinctive, earthy taste that’s become a hallmark of New England cuisine. A true clambake is nothing fancy—simply seasoned food shared between friends and family is what makes this a traditional New England food.
Join us on our New England Islands cruise and experience an authentic clambake, where you can taste the tradition in every morsel. From the briny clams to the tender corn on the cob, it’s a meal that ties you directly to the region’s coastal roots and its indigenous heritage.
Apples and Cider
New England’s apple orchards have a history as sweet as the cider they produce. The first apple trees in America were planted in Massachusetts Bay Colony in the early 1600s, brought over by English settlers who missed their beloved fruit. Apples quickly became a staple of colonial life, and cider—both hard and sweet—was a daily beverage for many. By the 18th century, nearly every farm in New England had its own orchard and cider press, making apples and cider an integral part of the region’s culture.
On our Hudson River Fall Foliage cruise, you’ll have the chance to visit local orchards and cider mills, where you can sample freshly pressed cider and apple-based desserts. This is the perfect way to taste the region’s harvest season and connect with the agricultural traditions that have shaped New England’s landscape.
Cranberries
Cranberries are more than just a Thanksgiving side dish in New England—they’re a way of life with deep historical roots. Native to North America, cranberries were used by indigenous peoples long before the arrival of European settlers, not only as food but also as medicine and dye. The early colonists quickly adopted the fruit, and by the 1800s, commercial cranberry farming was thriving, especially in Massachusetts. Today, New England is one of the largest producers of cranberries in the world, with cranberry bogs dotting the landscape and providing a unique glimpse into the region’s agricultural past. Here, anything can be infused with the tangy-sweet taste of cranberries. Scones, bread, muffins, and cookies are just a few of the baked goods that turn red like the fall leaves with this juicy berry.
Experience the cranberry harvest firsthand on our Grand New England cruise, where you can taste fresh cranberries and learn about the history of this beloved fruit. It’s a chance to connect with New England’s agricultural heritage while enjoying some truly unique flavors.
Scallops
Delicate, sweet, and incredibly versatile, New England scallops have been a prized catch since the early days of the region’s fishing industry. In the 19th century, scallop fishing became a booming industry, with fleets of small boats heading out to sea to harvest these little gems. The cold waters of the Atlantic produce scallops with a flavor that’s simply unparalleled—sweet, tender, and with just a hint of the ocean.
On our Cape Codder cruise, you can enjoy scallops prepared in a variety of ways, each bite capturing the freshness of the sea. It’s a dish that’s both simple and sophisticated, embodying the essence of New England’s coastal cuisine.
New England regional foods consist of flavors that are as diverse and inviting as its landscapes, with each dish offering a taste of history and tradition. From land to sea, every meal tells a story of the region’s historic past. Seafood and dessert lovers alike will find something to savor on a cruise with American Cruise Lines throughout New England.
Ready to embark on your culinary adventure? Discover our New England cruises and start planning your foodie journey today.
