Situated in strip malls and along highways throughout the United States, Red Lobster is among the most well-known chain restaurants in the country. Its a proverbial seafood haven, bringing the bounty of the sea to all corners of America at reasonable prices. Its menu is brimming with specials and iconic classics, from the aptly named Lobsterfest to the chains beloved Cheddar Bay biscuits. Perhaps none of Red Lobsters deals have quite as much sway as its Ultimate Endless Shrimp.
While plenty of chain restaurants have versions of all-you-can-eat gimmicks, Red Lobsters Ultimate Endless Shrimp exists in a category of its own. What started as a promotion to bring in more customers eventually became so successful that Red Lobster made it a permanent menu item in the summer of 2023. It wound up being a bit too popular at its original price point, though; the chain lost $11 million in the same quarter that Ultimate Endless Shrimp was affixed to the permanent menu, per CNN.
And though Red Lobster has since adjusted its prices to account for Ultimate Endless Shrimps popularity, I knew that, when presented with the opportunity, I had to sample this lavish offering of seafood decadence for myself.
Red Lobster is one of America’s most beloved chain restaurants. With over 700 locations across the country they are renowned as the ultimate destination for seafood lovers. Their menu boasts a wide variety of shrimp dishes prepared in different styles – fried scampi, broiled, grilled and more. But one question I frequently get asked is – does Red Lobster actually serve grilled shrimp?
As a big fan of grilled shrimp myself, I decided to do a deep dive into Red Lobster’s extensive shrimp offerings and uncover the answer Here’s a comprehensive look at the availability of grilled shrimp on their menu
An Overview of Shrimp Dishes at Red Lobster
Shrimp is definitely one of Red Lobster’s specialties. You’ll find shrimp appearing in many dishes across their appetizers, entrées and combo platters. Some of their most popular shrimp menu items include:
- Shrimp Linguini Alfredo – plump shrimp sautéed in garlic butter and served over linguini
- Walt’s Favorite Shrimp – crispy, hand-breaded fried shrimp
- Wood-Grilled Shrimp Skewers – shrimp grilled with Cajun seasoning
- Shrimp Tacos – choice of fried or grilled shrimp in warm tortillas
- Parmesan Shrimp Scampi – shrimp baked in a garlic butter parmesan sauce
- Coconut Shrimp – coconut-crusted shrimp fried golden brown
It’s clear that shrimp is prepared in a variety of ways at Red Lobster. But does grilled shrimp make the list?
Red Lobster Does Indeed Serve Grilled Shrimp
After closely examining the menu, I found that yes – Red Lobster does offer grilled shrimp! Here are some of the most popular dishes showcasing grilled shrimp:
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Wood-Grilled Shrimp Skewers – Jumbo shrimp seasoned and grilled over an open wood fire Served with rice and broccoli The signature way to enjoy Red Lobster’s grilled shrimp.
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Grilled Shrimp Tacos – Grilled shrimp brushed with lime vinaigrette layered in warm tortillas with shredded lettuce, pico de gallo and cilantro lime rice. You can taste the smoky grilled flavors.
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Grilled Shrimp Linguini Alfredo – Their famous alfredo sauce flavored with grilled shrimp. Puts a fresh spin on a classic dish.
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Grilled Shrimp Platter – Simple grilled shrimp served with rice pilaf and vegetables. Lets the shrimp shine.
So grilled shrimp does have a solid place on the Red Lobster menu. Their signature wood-grilling technique adds so much extra flavor.
Grilled vs. Fried Shrimp at Red Lobster
While fried coconut shrimp may be what Red Lobster is best known for, the grilled shrimp options offer a nice change of pace:
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Grilled – Lighter and healthier preparation. Natural flavors shine through. Infused with smoky, wood-fired taste.
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Fried – More indulgent breading and flavor. Crispy texture. Great bar food with beers.
The choice depends on your tastes – do you prefer the lighter grilled or the crunchier fried shrimp? Having both cooking styles available is a nice touch.
Incorporating Grilled Shrimp Into Your Red Lobster Meal
There are many ways to enjoy Red Lobster’s grilled shrimp:
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Order the Wood-Grilled Shrimp Skewers as an appetizer to start your meal.
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Substitute grilled shrimp on one of their fried shrimp dishes for a healthier option.
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Choose the Grilled Shrimp Tacos for a lighter lunch.
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Add grilled shrimp to your salad for a boost of flavor and protein.
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Upgrade to the Grilled Shrimp Linguini Alfredo for a new take on a classic.
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Pair grilled shrimp with grilled or fried seafood for the best of both worlds.
The possibilities are endless for savoring Red Lobster’s perfectly seasoned grilled shrimp.
Availability of Grilled Shrimp at Red Lobster
Since grilled shrimp is a standard part of the Red Lobster menu, it should be available year-round at most locations. However, supply chain issues or seasonal inventory may affect availability. If you have your sights set on grilled shrimp, calling ahead is recommended to confirm your chosen restaurant has it in stock.
During special events like Lobsterfest and the Endless Shrimp promotion, grilled shrimp may be more limited or served in set multi-course platters. But it’s still likely to make an appearance in some form.
Pricing of Grilled Shrimp Dishes at Red Lobster
Pricing for grilled shrimp entrees and appetizers is in line with other comparable shrimp menu items at Red Lobster. Expect to pay:
- $9 to $15 for grilled shrimp appetizers like the shrimp skewers
- $15 to $25 for grilled shrimp entrées depending on the preparation
- $20 to $30 for combo platters with grilled shrimp included
This seems reasonable and consistent given Red Lobster’s positioning as an affordable casual dining seafood chain. You’re paying a fair price for the extra flavor that grilling provides.
Customer Reviews of Grilled Shrimp at Red Lobster
Reviews of the grilled shrimp options at Red Lobster are generally quite positive. Here’s what customers have to say:
- “The grilled shrimp was tender and juicy with a nice char.”
- “Amazing smoke flavor from the wood grilling.”
- “Skewers let the shrimp shine without too much sauce.”
- “Way better than the usual fried shrimp.”
- “Adds a tasty twist I haven’t had before at Red Lobster.”
While a few customers reported drier or rubbery shrimp, most praised the smoky grilled flavor. It seems like a menu item worth exploring on your next visit.
The Bottom Line
After investigating Red Lobster’s extensive seafood offerings, I’m happy to report that grilled shrimp is definitely served across many menu items. Signature preparations like the Wood-Grilled Shrimp Skewers and Grilled Shrimp Tacos showcase this flavorful twist on shrimp. Don’t be afraid to deviate from the traditional fried shrimp next time you dine at Red Lobster. Order your shrimp grilled and experience a whole new delicious side to this seafood chain. Just be sure to call ahead if your heart is set on a specific grilled shrimp dish.
Round 2: Garlic shrimp scampi
Several minutes passed between the first Endless Shrimp plate and our second order, and we needed every moment of it. Periodic sips of Modelo and lemon water werent exactly clearing space, what with the alfredo gumming up the works. But we decided to continue headlong into the dairy, ordering garlic shrimp scampi and “Walts Favorite Shrimp.” (We were also surprised with a second grilled shrimp skewer, which we accepted with a bit of a friendly groan.)
Thankfully the scampi didnt come with pasta — wed already had plenty — but it mightve helped sop up some of the separated butter sauce pooled in the rounded rectangular plates in which the shrimp were served. These were the tiniest shellfish we received, possibly grilled as the skewered shrimps were, but there was no way to tell because of all the butter. I made the brutal mistake of grabbing one with my hands, turning into buttery King Midas until I could get my greasy paws on a napkin. Suddenly the end of Endless Shrimp seemed near.
Sitting alongside the scampi was Walts Favorite Shrimp, apparently named for Walt King, said to beone of Red Lobsters first employees. These were butterflied and tightly breaded, which created a unique texture that we couldnt fully appreciate as our digestive systems began to rebel against us. Plain old breaded shrimp just wouldnt stand out here, so our compliments to Walt, wherever he may be.
Though the actual shrimp were good, the real highlight was the cocktail sauce they came with. If this was an approximation of homemade cocktail sauce, you can tell Red Lobster tilted more toward the ketchup than the horseradish. But unlike the coconut shrimp, the sweetness here was more of a subtle touch that made the whole plate more enjoyable. I even dipped a couple of the extra skewered shrimp into it when no one was looking.
That said, this far into the meal, time began to slow down. It felt as if an hour passed after Walts final shrimp disappeared from our plate — and it still wasnt enough. But I knew we had more shrimp to try.
Round 1: Grilled shrimp skewer
Our first plate arrived about 10 minutes later, an oval slab containing our first three Endless Shrimp choices: the grilled shrimp skewer, Parrot Isle jumbo coconut shrimp, and shrimp linguini alfredo. We started with the skewer: six grilled shrimp atop a bed of orzo and served with a slice of lemon. Aside from being the humblest dish on the plate, it was easily the most straightforward — and that wasnt a bad thing.
The shrimp themselves were slightly rubbery and a bit dry, but it was nothing a little lemon juice couldnt fix. They also paired well with our chosen side of broccoli, which was steamed and extremely salty. I suspect the orzo was added to lend to a Mediterranean feel — not easy to achieve when nestled next to a heap of shrimp alfredo, but somehow, just barely, it worked. We knew there was plenty of gluttony to come, but the skewer kicked things off on a light, almost refreshing note. If only that couldve lasted!
Red Lobster Vs. Bonefish Grill: The Best Shrimp Dish Is Clear
FAQ
Does Red Lobster have grilled shrimp?
Grilled Shrimp. With a buttery garlic glaze.
How much is grilled lobster shrimp and salmon at Red Lobster?
| Item | Prices |
|---|---|
| Classic Caesar Salad | $9.99 |
| Seaside Shrimp Trio | $18.99 |
| Wild-Caught Snow Crab Legs (1 lb/1.5 lbs) | $26.99 / $34.99 |
| Wood-grilled Lobster, Shrimp, and Salmon | $34.99 |
Is all you can eat shrimp still on at Red Lobster?
We know you miss Ultimate Endless Shrimp. While it may be gone, there’s still a shrimptastic way to satisfy your cravings with our Shrimp Your Way. Choose Two or Three of our classic favorites or try out new flavors, all starting at just $20. Red Lobster Birthdays ???
What is the healthiest thing to eat at Red Lobster?
Most Nutritious Option
To gain the most nutritional benefits from your meal at Red Lobster, order the grilled rainbow trout, part of the restaurant’s classic menu. You’ll benefit from the trout’s protein, omega-3s, and vitamin D, and it comes in at under 500 calories.
Does Red Lobster have seafood?
From classic favorites like the signature Cheddar Bay Biscuits and Lobster Bisque to hearty entrees such as the Ultimate Feast and Wood-Grilled Lobster, Shrimp, and Salmon, the menu offers a blend of traditional and innovative seafood creations. Q: Does Red Lobster have a dress code for customers? Q: Does Red Lobster have a drive-thru?
Does Red Lobster have a menu change?
Red Lobster doesn’t make major menu changes often, but they have increased prices due to higher-quality seafood. The menu varies by location. Red Lobster’s appetizers, like crispy dragon shrimp and lobster dip, are highly recommended and preferred over the entrées.
What to eat at Red Lobster?
is a tasty dish with tender crab meat in a creamy garlic Alfredo sauce. It is served over linguini pasta, making it a perfect meal for seafood lovers. a pasta dish at Red Lobster. It has tender shrimp in a creamy garlic Alfredo sauce over linguini pasta. This popular dish can be ordered for one person a large seafood platter meant for 4 people.
What is the Red Lobster menu?
The Red Lobster menu is a celebration of fresh, high-quality seafood with a wide variety of dishes to satisfy any palate.
Does Red Lobster have a secret menu?
A: Red Lobster does not have an official secret menu. They do, however, offer a wide range of menu items that are updated periodically. Q: Does Red Lobster have a Senior citizen discount?
Does Red Lobster have a salad bar?
A: No, Red Lobster does not offer a salad bar. However, they do have a selection of salads available on the menu. Q: Does Red Lobster have a secret menu?