Nothing says summertime in New England like enjoying a fresh lobster roll on a hot, sunny day! While I usually kick off lobster roll eating season on Memorial Day Weekend with a roll from Sesuit Harbor Cafe on Cape Cod (a must-try for my fellow lobster roll lovers!), there are a number of go-to places in Boston that make outstanding lobster rolls. Since I crave this New England staple, year-round, I’ve done my fair share of taste-testing to find the best of the best in the city.
From lobster rolls that are served cold and tossed with just the right amount of mayo to lobster rolls prepared warm with drawn butter, I’ve got you covered!
The A-Lyst for Boston’s Best Lobster Rolls
Since 1925, James Hook & Co. has been a family-run mainstay in Boston’s Seaport District. In fact, it was there WAY before the bustling neighborhood that we enjoy today! While visitors can pick up fresh lobsters and seafood to-go, my favorite part about a visit to James Hook is enjoying a lobster roll in the restaurant’s outdoor dining area. Conveniently located on the corner of Atlantic Avenue and Northern Avenue, this is a great lunch spot for nearby workers and tourists alike. I usually get the large lobster roll paired with coleslaw and a bag of chips. The roll at James Hook is simply prepared with mayo and served cold. If you’re looking for an easy, no frills place to enjoy a fresh lobster roll, this is your spot! 15 Northern Avenue, Boston, MA 02110
Chef Barbara Lynch’s B&G Oysters is not only home to one of my favorite lobster rolls, but it also boasts one of the city’s best outdoor patios (you can read more about that here)! Whether you sit inside (I recommend the counter because it’s fun to see the food preparation and kitchen staff in action) or outside under a canopy of white lights and grape vines, you must order the lobster roll! While much of the restaurant’s menu changes with the season, the lobster roll is a signature dish and I literally order it throughout the year…yes, even in the dead of winter. Dressed in mayo, celery, and a few chives, B&G’s lobster roll is plated with plenty of french fries, pickles, and coleslaw, and when you pair it with a glass of chilled rosé on a hot summer night, there’s literally nothing better! 550 Tremont Street, Boston, MA 02116
Widely considered the location of the “best” lobster roll in Boston, Neptune Oyster, located in a cozy space on Salem Street in the North End, always delivers a quality meal. The only problem? The perpetually long wait to be seated! No matter what time of day you go (they open at 11:30 AM), there is a line, so you must be prepared to wait (I suggest grabbing a drink at a nearby Italian eatery or exploring the neighborhood), however, once you get seated, I promise it will be worth it! Neptune gives diners the choice to enjoy its lobster roll hot with butter or cold with mayo. I tend to favor the warm and savory option here, especially in the winter when you’re outside in the cold waiting for a table. Don’t forget to order oysters to start! 63 Salem Street, Boston, MA 02113
Fans of warm, buttery lobster rolls are in luck because Saltie Girl in Back Bay offers a delicious, buttery lobster roll as well as the option of a cold hot lobster roll. Tucked away on Dartmouth Street near Newbury Street, this small space tends to draw a crowd, so I’d recommend dining there on a weeknight to avoid a long wait time. I love how you can add additional lobster meat by the ounce to your roll, so if you’re super hungry, they’ve got you covered! Don’t miss the restaurant’s awesome cocktail list and amazing raw bar selection. 281 Dartmouth Street, Boston, MA 02116
This Fort Point gem serves up Ethel’s Creamy Lobster and a Warm Buttered Lobster Roll, both of which are equally as amazing. If you can plan ahead, Row 34 does take reservations, but don’t fret if you have a last minute craving as walk-ins are encouraged. I love the restaurant’s chic, minimalist vibe and I could spend hours pouring over its well-curated wine list, so the lobster roll is just one of the many reasons why I keep coming back for more! Served with slaw and chips, Row 34’s roll is plentiful and delicious! 383 Congress Street, Boston, MA 02210
Also worth checking out…
Similar to James Hook & Co., this is another Seaport District spot that offers a low-key atmosphere with a delicious selection of seafood, including hot and cold lobster rolls. 300 Northern Avenue, Boston, MA 02210
I had my doubts about getting a lobster roll from this North End sandwich shop, but it exceeded my expectations. If you’re famished and want the largest lobster roll you’ve probably ever seen, order the Lobstitution, which features 25 ounces of lobster meat served cold or with butter! 65 Salem Street, Boston, MA 02113
Outfit Details:
Dress: Parker Cathy Off-the-Shoulder Dress
Earrings: Bauble Bar White Beaded Earrings (similar style here)
Nail Polish: OPI Don’t Bossa Nova Me Around
Lipstick: MAC Lustering Lustre Lipstick
The A-Lyst is a Boston-based lifestyle blog curating the very best of style, beauty, food, and travel.