It’s a well-known fact that the Northeast is a coveted place for seafood, specifically lobster. Although we generally attribute the best lobster to Massachusetts’ neighbor, Maine, don’t count Beantown out just yet. The king of crustaceans has reinvented itself in the form of the phenomenon that is lobster rolls — to which Boston is no stranger. Whether you are a fan of the mayo concoction, a well-buttered roll or both, here is a list of some wicked pissahs to ensure that you steer clear of the ever-daunting McLobster (the McDonald’s attempt at a lobster roll).
Neptune Oyster
63 Salem St.
Boston, MA 02113
(617) 742-3474
The Neptune Oyster is, in fact, an oyster/seafood bar that also boasts a skilled kitchen that serves until 9:30 p.m. (This is important to know because there is generally an hour wait.) However, it is common knowledge among locals that the establishment serves a killer lobster roll. The roll can be plated cold in a mayo sauce or the preferred “Connecticut style” smothered in hot butter sauce on a proud brioche roll that withstands the large pile of chunk lobster meat for $29 (the sandwich is served with fries as well).
**Fortunately for the gluten-free dieter, it offers both styles without a roll!
James Hook & Co.
15-17 Northern Ave.
Boston, MA 02210
(617) 423-5501
James Hook & Co. is described by Yelpers as “a hole-in-the-wall shack” that offers a simply great value in a delicious lobster roll. This dive bar-esque mecca of lobster features the classic sandwich at $16 regular-sized or $19 for the large. The lobster is dressed in mayo that isn’t overpowering on an untoasted bun. However, staff will gladly toast it for you if you ask nicely. While there isn’t much seating inside, you are treated to a view of the harbor on the benches outside.
Yankee Lobster
300 Northern Ave.
Boston, MA 02210
(617) 345-9799
Yankee Lobster is probably the most famous of the lobster roll joints, being that it has been featured on “Diners, Drive-ins and Dives” as well as Food Network’s “On the Road.” Clearly, the fame hasn’t gone to its head because the popular spot still produces an awesome lobster roll, either hot or fried, at $19.99 with so much lobster that it overtakes the roll — in a good way. The place is conveniently located near the convention center, so if you find yourself craving good food at a good price while attending an event, Yankee Lobster is your go-to!
Tony’s Clam Shop
861 Quincy Shore Dr.
Quincy, MA 02170
(617) 773-5090
Tony’s Clam Shop is located southeast of Boston on Quincy Bay. This quaint diner-ish establishment boasts a variety of seafood specialties, including the lobster roll basket. The roll features large amounts of lobster tossed in mayo on an untoasted roll served with chips and a pickle. If you’re looking for a break from the city and find yourself enjoying Quincy Bay, pop into Tony’s and enjoy the lobster roll at $19.95.
**NOTE: Tony’s is a seasonal establishment.
Alive & Kicking Lobsters
269 Putnam Ave.
Cambridge, MA 02139
(617) 876-0451
Alive & Kicking Lobsters is certainly known for it’s lobster sandwich. That’s right, sandwich! This all-killer-no-filler sandwich is generously proportioned with light mayo, salt and peppered lobster salad that is served on scali bread with chips for $16.99. Pair this all-time favorite sandwich with one of Alive & Kicking’s very own housemade sodas for a great meal in the Cambridge area.
Belle Isle Seafood
1 S. Main St.
Winthrop, MA 02152
(617) 567-1619
Belle Isle Seafood is located on the “Eastie” side of Boston at the edge of Winthrop. As seen on Anthony Bourdain’s “No Reservations,” Belle Isle Seafood offers a generously-sized canonical- (cold) style lobster roll tossed in a very subtle mayo on a roll served with your choice of fries, onion rings, slaw or rice pilaf at $23.99, or $30.99 for all tail meat.
Row 34
383 Congress St.
Boston, MA 02210
(617) 553-5900
Row 34 is a stylish place to dine near the convention center in Boston. It offers a variety of menu items for lunch, including both a hot buttered lobster roll or Ethel’s creamy lobster roll for $24 with chips and slaw. If you’re visiting the Boston Tea Party Museum, Row 34 is a great place to stop in and eat.
B&G Oysters
550 Tremont St.
Boston, MA 02116
(617) 423-0550
B&G Oysters is a modern take on the classic oyster bar, located in Boston’s South End. It offers the classic lobster roll featuring Maine lobster with bread, butter pickles and fries for $29. There’s also an alternative: the BLT with Lobster for $30.
Island Creek Oyster Bar
500 Commonwealth Ave.
Boston, MA 02215
(617) 532-5300
Island Creek is located and designed in a very sleek setting that’s only open during the week from 4 to 11 p.m. However, the restaurant opens for lunch on the weekend at 11:30 a.m. on Saturday and 10:30 on Sunday. Its lobster roll is served as the classic Ethel’s (creamy) lobster roll on a rosemary roll with kettle chips and slaw for $27.
Pauli’s
65 Salem St.
Boston, MA 02113
(857) 284-7064
Pauli’s is located on the North End of Boston near the Paul Revere House. Generally featuring an Italian-based fare, Pauli’s also offers the lobster roll. Pauli’s pays tribute to this staple in a big way by offering the classic roll in either 7 ounces for $16.99, 14 ounces for $33.50 or a whopping 25 ounces for $66.99! The mayo-tossed chunk lobster is loaded onto a toasted New England-style hot dog roll(s) or a sub roll served with Utz potato chips. Pauli’s will also smother your roll in butter for an additional $2.
Whether you’re planning to stay in or near the Boston area, be sure to use ForRent.com to find a place to stay close to these iconic Northeast seafood staples.