Lobster rolls are a quintessential New England summer food. These iconic sandwiches feature tender, sweet lobster meat served chilled with mayo on a grilled split-top bun. Their simplicity allows the natural flavor of the seafood to shine. If you’ve never experienced an authentic Maine-style lobster roll, you’re missing out on a truly delicious treat!
In this article, I’ll share where you can find and buy genuine lobster rolls so you can indulge in this coastal classic.
What is a Lobster Roll?
A traditional lobster roll consists of freshly cooked lobster meat lightly dressed with mayonnaise or butter and served on a toasted split-top hot dog bun. The meat is usually chilled and chopped into bite-size chunks though some prefer warm lobster drizzled in butter. The simplicity highlights the natural sweetness of the lobster.
Lobster rolls originated in New England, specifically Maine and Connecticut They were likely invented as an affordable and portable way for lobstermen to enjoy leftovers The sandwiches grew popular along the northeast coast in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Today, lobster rolls are beloved throughout the United States, though the Maine-style chilled lobster roll remains the standard.
Where to Buy Lobster Rolls
In New England
The best place to enjoy an authentic lobster roll is along the coasts of Maine, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Connecticut This is lobster territory, where fresh lobster is plentiful
Roadside lobster shacks and seaside restaurants serve classic lobster rolls. Travel to places like Bar Harbor, Kennebunkport, Rockland, and Portland in Maine or towns along Cape Cod in Massachusetts. Look for causal spots near harbors and beaches.
You can also buy lobster meat from local seafood markets and assemble your own lobster rolls at home. Grab rolls from a bakery and some mayo from the grocery store for an easy homemade meal.
Major U.S. Cities
In recent years, lobster rolls have grown popular nationwide. You can find lobster rolls at trendy restaurants in major cities like New York, Chicago, Washington D.C., and Los Angeles.
However, the quality can vary greatly. I recommend sticking to restaurants that ship in fresh lobster daily, ideally from Maine. For example, Luke’s Lobster sources lobster, shrimp, and crab directly from sustainable fisheries in Maine. They offer classic Maine-style lobster and crab rolls at various city locations.
Online Retailers
For some, the easiest and most convenient way to buy lobster rolls is online. Retailers like Maine Lobster Now ship fresh lobster and lobster roll kits nationwide. You can order pre-assembled lobster rolls packed with meat and ready to enjoy. Or, DIY with lobster meat and rolls shipped overnight on ice. This ensures maximum freshness no matter where you live.
Online shopping also allows you to buy lobster in bulk. For special occasions like backyard barbecues or beach parties, order one of the various lobster roll party packs. They provide all the fixings to create multiple lobster rolls at home.
Lobster Roll Delivery
In cities, you can get lobster rolls delivered straight to your door thanks to services like UberEats, DoorDash, and Grubhub. Search for “lobster roll” and see what pops up near you. Sometimes local seafood restaurants offer delivery through these apps.
However, quality really varies with delivery lobster rolls. The meat may not be as fresh and the bun can get soggy. For best results, opt for restaurants using real Maine lobster meat that’s prepped to order. Or, get DIY lobster roll kits delivered so you can assemble right before eating.
What to Look For in an Authentic Lobster Roll
Not all lobster rolls are created equal. Here are signs that a lobster roll is the real deal:
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Made with fresh lobster meat – It should be recently cooked, not processed frozen lobster. Fresh, cold lobster has the sweetest flavor.
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Chopped lobster chunks – The meat should be chopped into bite-size pieces, not shredded. You want hearty chunks in each bite.
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Split-top New England-style bun – The right bun has a top opening for filling and is grilled on both sides. Avoid substitutions like hoagie rolls.
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Mayo and/or butter dressing – Lobster rolls are simple. The meat should be lightly dressed with mayo, butter, or both. Avoid additions like heavy salad dressing.
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Chilled or warm – Authentic rolls are served either chilled or warm with melted butter. If chilled, the meat should be cold.
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Minimal extra fillings – Keep it simple. At most, a dash of celery, chives, lemon juice or lettuce in addition to lobster and dressing.
When you find a spot that checks all the boxes, you’ve likely discovered some delicious, traditional Maine-style lobster rolls!
How Much Do Lobster Rolls Cost?
Lobster is one of the most expensive seafood varieties, so lobster rolls are definitely a splurge purchase. Expect to pay $15-$30 or more per roll. Here are some factors that influence price:
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Location – Rolls cost less directly from lobster shacks in Maine vs. restaurants in big cities.
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Type of lobster – Hard shell lobster costs more than new shell soft lobster. Live lobster is most expensive.
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Size – Rolls with bigger, heartier portions of lobster meat are pricier.
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Shipping – Having fresh lobster shipped overnight adds to the cost if you buy online.
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Business overhead – Simple shacks have lower overhead costs than nicer sit-down restaurants.
While not cheap, lobster rolls are meant to be a special treat. The sweet taste and tender texture of the lobster meat makes the price worthwhile.
How to Eat and Enjoy Lobster Rolls
Once you’ve got your lobster roll in hand, here are some tips for savoring every bite:
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Eat it right away while the bun is hot and crisp, and lobster meat is chilled. Rolls don’t hold well.
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Taste the lobster on its own before adding any extra condiments, if offered.
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Take small bites and really savor the flavor. Don’t rush through it!
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Be prepared for some mess – juice from lobster can drip down your chin.
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Use your hands and enjoy the casual, hands-on eating experience. Forget plates and silverware!
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Have plenty of napkins ready to wipe butter or mayo off fingers.
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Pair with classic summer refreshments like lemonade, iced tea, or local beer. The brininess of the lobster tastes great with cold, crisp drinks.
Why You Should Try an Authentic Lobster Roll
If you appreciate delectable seafood, you need to try a real Maine lobster roll at least once. Here’s why this treat should be on your foodie bucket list:
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The sweet, delicate flavor of the lobster shines when prepared simply.
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The texture is divine – tender meat with some chew.
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They capture the charming essence of summer on the New England coast.
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Eating lobster by hand is fun and satisfying.
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Good ones spotlight high-quality, fresh ingredients at their best.
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The overall eating experience transports you right to the shores of Maine.
Lobster rolls are an American treasure you have to taste to believe. Seek out authentic versions made the traditional Maine way and you’ll discover a fabulous regional specialty that lives up to the hype.
Where to Find Fresh Lobster Roll Near You
Craving an authentic lobster roll but not sure where to find one nearby? Here are some tips:
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Search restaurant reviews on Yelp or Google for top spots near you that serve lobster rolls. Look at photos of the food to evaluate authenticity.
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Check menus and order lobster rolls from nicer seafood restaurants that feature coastal New England fare.
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In cities like New York, Boston, Washington D.C., and Chicago, look for restaurants that ship lobster directly from Maine.
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See if any food trucks or shacks in your area offer lobster rolls made with real fresh lobster meat. Some travel around to various locations.
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Try reputable online retailers like Maine Lobster Now that overnight ship fresh lobster meat and lobster rolls anywhere in the country.
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Use delivery apps to bring lobster rolls to your door from local eateries. Read item descriptions closely to ensure real lobster is used.
With some research, you can dig up mouthwatering authentic lobster rolls in unexpected places. The key is finding spots committed to using only fresh, high-quality ingredients. Don’t settle for some sad, lobster-ish sandwich. Seek out the real deal!
Satisfy Your Lobster Roll Craving
Do some digging and get creative in your search methods. With so many restaurants and retailers shipping fresh lobster overnight these days, you can indulge your lobster roll craving wherever you happen to be. Just be sure to look for signs of genuine ingredients and traditional preparation when placing an order. The effort is well worth it once you sink your teeth into the tender chunks of chilled lobster meat.
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Fresh Maine Lobster Rolls Delivered to Your Door
Maine lobster rolls are a true delicacy, perfect for any occasion, from casual dinners to special events. At Maine Lobster Now, we make it easy for you to savor the authentic taste of fresh Maine lobster rolls without leaving home. Enjoy the iconic flavor of Maine, featuring sweet, succulent lobster in a buttery roll, delivered right to your door.
Experience Authentic Maine Lobster Rolls at Home
A Maine lobster roll is more than just a dish—its an experience. Whether for parties, picnics, or casual meals, this classic favorite brings the rich flavors of Maines coast straight to your table. With Maine Lobster Now, you can enjoy fresh, authentic Maine lobster rolls wherever you are, without the need for a trip to Maine.
The Best Lobster Roll in New England is at McLoons Lobster Shack in South Thomaston, Maine
FAQ
Which is better, Maine lobster roll or Connecticut lobster roll?
Connecticut Lobster rolls are superior and it’s not even close. Those savages up in Maine may know how to catch a lobster but they don’t know a damn thing about good lobster rolls.
Does McDonald’s still have lobster rolls?
Unfortunately, the lobster roll was discontinued in 2017 on McDonald’s menus, due to the rising prices of lobster. But it’s anyone’s guess whether McDonald’s will bring it back to New England someday — after all, its nutritional information and ingredients are still listed on the McDonald’s website.
Where can I find the best lobster roll near me?
For those searching for the best lobster roll near me, LobsterAnywhere offers premium lobster meat sourced directly from Maine. Remember, the best lobster roll is the one that tastes right to you. Whether it’s the classic Maine lobster roll or a unique take from your local seafood spot, the perfect lobster roll is out there waiting for you.
Are lobster rolls worth it?
Nevertheless, these premium bundles are worth it as they include succulent, fresh-from-the-boat lobstah meat and condiments—or already-dressed lobster salad—and split-top buns or rolls to make outstanding sandwiches at home. Here are seven of the best lobster roll kits you can have shipped to your doorstep in a hurry.
Where can I buy lobster rolls in Maine?
Families love to create Maine lobster rolls together — it’s a fun project for kids, too. We sell lobster rolls to some of the best restaurants in Maine, such as the Lobster Shack at Two Lights. The Lobster Shack at Two Lights was featured on “Man vs. Food,” so you know it’s a place with a great reputation.
Do you offer lobster roll meal kits?
Just when you thought you could only get a lobster or crab roll on the coast, we’re here to offer full lobster roll meal kits and crab roll kits delivered fresh right to your door. Each kit comes with everything you need: rolls, mayo, butter, potato chips, and of course the star of the meal, fresh lobster or crab meat.
Are Maine lobster rolls frozen?
At Maine Lobster Now, we offer super-easy lobster roll kits delivered right to your door, allowing you to enjoy the taste of Maine lobster rolls without traveling all the way to Maine. Some companies use frozen Canadian lobster meat and call it Maine lobster in their lobster rolls, but not Maine Lobster Now.
What is a lobster roll?
A lobster roll is more than just a sandwich; it’s a delightful experience wrapped in a bun. At its heart, a lobster roll combines fresh, succulent lobster meat with a light dressing, all cradled by a soft, buttery bun. But what really is a lobster roll?