If you’ve ever driven down Route 109 in South Sanford, you’ve seen it. That classic, almost nostalgic building with the big sign. Shain’s of Maine Sanford ME isn’t just some random ice cream stand you hit up because you're bored on a Tuesday. It’s a landmark. But honestly? It’s also a place with a complicated history that most people only know half of.
People come for the "Sea Dog Biscuit." They stay for the massive lobster rolls. But there's a lot more bubbling under the surface of this family-run dairy empire than just sugar and cream.
From a Card Table to a Dairy Giant
It’s kinda wild to think this all started with a card table. Back in 1967, Rodney Shain—a teacher and coach—had a garden that was basically too successful. He started selling veggies at the end of his driveway on Grammar Road. By '72, the family moved the operation to Route 109. That’s the spot you likely know today.
Jeff Shain, the current face of the company, took the reins of the ice cream side in the 80s. They weren’t just serving cones; they were becoming a massive wholesale player. At one point, you could find Shain's of Maine in grocery stores all over New England and at the Portland Sea Dogs games. They were the "it" brand for local Maine dairy.
But things changed. Families grow, people pass away, and businesses hit walls.
The restaurant side of the business has been a bit of a roller coaster. When Barbara Shain passed in 2002, the family actually closed the restaurant portion because she was the heart of it. They tried a comeback in 2011, and for a while, it worked. Today, it’s back to being a staple for "light lunches" and, of course, the ice cream that made them famous.
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Why Shain’s of Maine Sanford ME Still Hits the Spot
Let’s talk about the food. You can’t mention Shain’s without the Lobster Roll. It’s basically a local law. They do it the classic way—perfectly toasted roll, high-quality meat, and your choice of mayo or butter. No fillers. No weird stuff. Just Maine.
Then there are the "Third Alarm" adult milkshakes. Yeah, you read that right. They’ve got these booze-infused shakes like the "Mudslide" (Kahlua, Vodka, Irish Cream) and the "Third Alarm" which uses Fireball. It’s a bit of a departure from the "penny candy" vibe of the old days, but it works.
The 2020 Controversy: What Actually Happened?
If you were around in 2020, you probably remember the headlines. Shain’s of Maine Sanford ME hit a massive rough patch. There was a major blow-up involving owner Jeff Shain and an employee. It centered around a conversation about racial slurs in music being played in the shop.
The fallout was fast. The Portland Sea Dogs ended a 26-year partnership. Local shops pulled the ice cream from their shelves. It was a mess.
Jeff Shain issued several apologies, claiming he was commenting on the language in the music and didn't mean to be offensive. Whether you believe that or not depends on who you talk to in Sanford. Some locals haven't gone back since. Others say it was a misunderstanding blown out of proportion. It’s a rift that still exists in the community today, even if the lines at the counter on a hot July day suggest people have moved on.
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The Flavor Lineup (The Real Reason People Queue Up)
Social politics aside, the ice cream is objectively high-tier. We’re talking 16% butterfat premium stuff. They have over 50 flavors.
- Blueberry Cheesecake: It’s Maine. You have to have blueberry.
- Java Crunch: Coffee ice cream with a serious bite.
- Sea Dog Biscuit: This is the legendary one. Vanilla ice cream sandwiched between two chocolate chip cookies. Simple, but it’s a total core memory for anyone who grew up going to Hadlock Field.
- Toasted Coconut: Surprisingly good. Not that fake sun-tan lotion flavor you get at the grocery store.
The vibe inside is very "retro diner." It’s loud, it’s busy, and it smells like waffle cones. You’ve got families with kids covered in sprinkles sitting next to bikers who just pulled off the highway. It’s a weird, beautiful mix of people.
Is it Worth the Drive?
Sanford isn't exactly a tourist mecca like Kennebunkport or Portland. It’s a "real" town. But that’s why Shain’s feels authentic. It’s not polished for Instagram. The floors are a bit worn, the service is "Maine friendly" (which means they’re nice but won't take your crap), and the portions are huge.
If you’re heading up to the lakes or coming back from the coast, it’s a solid pit stop.
Practical Info for Your Visit
Don't just wing it. They have weird hours sometimes.
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Location: 1491 Main Street, Sanford, ME 04073.
Typical Hours: Usually 11:00 am to 8:00 or 9:00 pm. On Sundays, they sometimes open a little later, around noon.
Pro Tip: If you’re going for the lobster roll, check the "2 for" deals. They often have specials that include chowder which, honestly, is the only way to do it.
What’s Next for Shain's?
The business is still very much a family affair. They’ve recently upgraded their digital presence—finally—with a new website and blog. They’re trying to bridge that gap between being a 60-year-old local secret and a modern brand.
They also stay involved in the community, sponsoring things like Sanford High School’s Project Graduation. It seems they’re doubling down on being "Sanford’s place," despite the national-level drama they faced a few years back.
If you want the full experience, grab a quart to go. Their pre-packaged quarts are actually pretty affordable compared to the "boutique" pints you see in Portland for ten bucks.
Actionable Insights for Your Trip
- Skip the Peak: Saturday at 2:00 pm is a nightmare. Go on a weekday evening if you actually want to sit down.
- Ask for Samples: They’re actually cool about it. With 50+ flavors, you’re going to have choice paralysis.
- Check the Specials: Their Thursday Chicken Parm sandwich is a sleeper hit if you aren't in the mood for seafood.
- The "Shainwich": If you don't want a full Sea Dog Biscuit, get the Shainwich. It’s the same thing but easier to eat without getting vanilla on your shirt.
At the end of the day, Shain's of Maine Sanford ME is a survivor. It’s survived family transitions, a massive public relations crisis, and the general struggle of being a small business in a world of conglomerates. Whether you're there for the history or just a scoop of Maple Bacon Crunch, it’s a piece of Maine you shouldn't skip.
To make the most of your visit, always check their social media for "flavor drops" before you head out, as their seasonal rotations—like Pumpkin Spice in the fall—often sell out by the afternoon.