Boston is known for its sports teams, historic sites, and beautiful parks, but the city is possibly best known for its amazingly fresh seafood. And there is no better place to enjoy a New England favorite — the iconic lobster roll — than here in Boston. So, whether you enjoy it cold with mayonnaise, hot with a buttered roll, or even topped with caviar, we've got you covered. Check out some of the best places to grab your next (or first) lobster roll in Boston.
Luke's Lobster
Luke's Lobster is the official lobster roll of the Boston Red Sox, so you know it has to be good! Head to their Back Bay or Downtown locations for their signature lobster roll featuring a split-top New England-style bun with a swipe of mayo, lemon butter, secret seasoning, and local, sustainably sourced lobster. Can't get enough? Make it a jumbo roll, have it as a part of their seafood flight, or pair it with their delicious lobster bisque. Conveniently located next to Newbury Street, the Pru, and The Freedom Trail, Luke's is a must-visit.
Legal Seafood
A true staple of the Boston food scene since 1950, Legal's Half Pound Lobster Roll is as iconicity Boston as each of its restaurants. Whether you choose their savory, buttery hot lobster roll or prefer the cold roll served with lemon mayo and chives, you'll agree that Legal has perfected it. We also recommend some of their fried seafood dishes, fresh seafood entrees, sushi, and poke options.
Pauli's North End
A true neighborhood gem and North End original, Pauli's roots run four generations deep. Since 2011, this hole-in-the-wall establishment has been a local go-to favorite known for its outrageously overstuffed sandwiches and famous Zagat-rated lobster rolls.
Most will order their 7oz or 14oz options, but if you're really craving lobster (and feeling adventurous!), then grab their USS Lobstitution, filled with 28oz of knuckle and claw lobster meat with a twist of lemon and mayo on a grilled long sub roll!
Row 34
Considered by some as the city's best lobster roll, Row 34 has to be on your Boston itinerary. Widely considered one of the country's best seafood chefs, Jeremy Seawall and his team truly put their heart into their lobster roll. And, it's sourced from the Fish Pier less than a mile away - talk about fresh! Head to their original restaurant in Boston's Fort Point or their newer location in Kendall Square and choose from Ethel's Creamy Lobster Roll or the Warm Buttered Lobster Roll. Both locations offer lively and welcoming environments, making it the perfect place to grab dinner 'rolls' with friends, family, or even a date.
The Banks Seafood and Steak
The Banks Seafood and Steak is a true celebration of New England classics. Opened in the heart of Boston's Back Bay in 2021, The Banks, named after New England's famed fishing grounds, Georges Bank, is the place for fresh seafood right from the dock. Grab their renowned lobster roll, complete with a brown butter bun, sea salt, and chives, served both hot or cold.
Sullivan's Castle Island
Few things are as quintessentially Boston as grabbing a lobster roll at Sullivan's. Located on Castle Island in the city's South Boston neighborhood, this 'Southie' landmark opened in 1951 and has been a must-visit destination for locals and visitors for generations. Sullivan's offers not only quick service but also a great price, a unique experience, and an amazing classic lobster roll.
Grab a roll with the family at one of their outdoor dining options, have a picnic on the beach or in the park, and walk it off with some of the best views of Boston Harbor.
Neptune Oyster
One of the city's most sought-after restaurants, Neptune Oyster, is worth waiting in line for (which usually extends down the street). Quaintly hidden among some of the city's best Italian food, Neptune's lobster rolls, complete with huge chunks of lobster, an Iggy's brioche bun, and a side of sea salt fries, will impress anyone. Upgrade your experience and top your lobster roll with some caviar!
ReelHouse
Nothing pairs better with a lobster roll than a breathtaking city view. And that's exactly what you'll find at ReelHouse in East Boston. This landmark destination in 'Eastie' has a globally inspired menu curated by culinary director Marc Orfaly and offers an innovative take on fresh New England fare. The perfect spot for brunch, lunch, or dinner, we recommend grabbing their iconic lobster roll and a classic cocktail. Have a friend with you who isn't a big seafood person? They can sit right next to you and order their mouthwatering burger and fries.
Check out the team's other locations in Quincy and Boston's Seaport Neighborhood.
Little Whale Oyster Bar
Grab a lobster roll in a charming Newbury Street Brownstone with a seafood concept from Chef Michael Serpa. The team's ode to a classic seaside clam shack and raw bar throughout the New England coast has also brought you a perfectly prepared lobster roll.
We also recommend the lobster spaghetti, mussels, clam flatbread and a wine pairing from the team's amazing selection.With the restaurant's proximity to the Prudential Center, Fenway Park and the Hynes Convention Center, it is a perfect place to grab lunch after a day of shopping or before a game, have a business dinner with industry colleagues or impress on a first date.
B&G Oyster
Hidden amongst iconic brownstones is B&G Oyster, a neighborhood gem that combines fresh oysters, seafood and of course a classic New England lobster roll.
This widely acclaimed restaurant is perfect for those looking for a bit of a more 'gourmet' experience, with their lobster rolls coming cold with house aioli or hot butter. Pair it with a bottle or glass from their friendly wine list, or mix things up with the Lobster BLT.
Sit at the counter or their quaint and unique outdoor seating.
Saltie Girl
Arguably one of Boston's most beautiful restaurants, this upscale bar serves one of the best lobster rolls in the city. Saltie Girl offers incredible indoor vibes and tons of outdoor seating along the city's iconic Newbury Street. Some say their lobster rolls are 'textbook perfect,' loaded with claw, knuckle, and tail meat.
Pair it with their tin fish offerings or even a seafood tower!
James Hook & Co.
James Hook has been selling seafood from its picturesque family-owned fisher in Boston's historic waterfront since 1925. With almost a decade of experience serving the freshest seafood, it's no wonder their 'loaded' lobster roll is among the city's most highly recommended. The restaurant's casual yet inviting atmosphere is complete with indoor and outdoor seating and is a short walk from Downtown Boston, the Seaport, the North End, and even South Station, making it a must-visit. In the mood for more than just a lobster roll? Try their lobster salad, lobster pie, or their lobster mac and cheese!
Summer Shack
If you're looking for a great casual option for the whole family, then Summer Shack is the place to go. This fun and bright take on a traditional New England clam shack features a raw bar with 2000 pieces of fresh shellfish, specialty crafted Tiki Cocktails, and a variety of beers on tap. Grab one (or multiple!) of their Jasper White's famous lobster rolls to devour with friends and family.
Yankee Lobster
This casual spot in Boston's Seaport gets crowded for a reason! For decades, Yankee Lobster has been one of the go-to places to experience a fresh and nicely seasoned traditional New England lobster roll. Located close to the Leader Bank Pavilion and just a short 15-minute walk from the Boston Convention & Exhibition Center, this is the perfect place to fuel up before or after a concert or conference.
Reds Best at Boston Public Market
Located in the Boston Public Market, Red's Best Fish Market and Eatery is an amazing option for your lobster roll experience in the city! Known for its fresh seafood and amazing flavors, it is no wonder it is ranked amongst the best rolls in the city. Stop in to grab one after visiting Faneuil Hall, or buy some seafood to cook at home!
