Craving the perfect lobster roll but not sure where to start?
From buttery Connecticut-style to chilled Maine-style with a kiss of mayo, every coastal state has a standout worth a road trip.
Consider this your delicious itinerary, curated so you can skip the guesswork and head straight for the good stuff.
Bring your appetite and a napkin, because these rolls are overflowing with flavor.
Maine – Red’s Eats (Wiscasset)
Red’s Eats is the kind of place that makes you pull over even if you were not planning to stop, because the line and the scent of butter tell you everything. The lobster roll here is a mountain of sweet, whole-claw and knuckle meat piled high on a toasted split-top bun.
You choose butter or mayo on the side, so the meat stays pure and warm in your hands.
Expect to wait, and yes, it is worth every minute, especially if you time it at golden hour over the Sheepscot River. The bun is lightly crisp, the lobster is tender, and the portion feels generous enough to share, though you will not want to.
Ask for warm drawn butter and a lemon wedge to brighten those briny, delicate bites.
What makes Red’s legendary is restraint, letting pristine Maine lobster be the headline without heavy sauces or distractions. You taste ocean sweetness first, then the rich butter, then a whisper of toast from the bun.
Grab a seat by the water, breathe in the salt air, and let the roll become your postcard of summer in Maine.
If you need sides, the onion rings and coleslaw add crunch without stealing the show. Go early, bring patience, and keep a sweater handy for coastal breezes.
When you finally unwrap that towering roll, you will understand why this tiny shack defines the Maine standard.
New Hampshire – Beach Plum (North Hampton)
The Beach Plum knows how to go big, and that includes their famous jumbo lobster roll stacked with chilled meat. Picture a tidy, lightly toasted bun under a mound of fresh-picked lobster, with mayo used like a gentle whisper rather than a shout.
It is clean, refreshing, and built for beach days along the Seacoast.
You can keep it classic or ask for butter if you prefer a warmer take, but most fans love the cool, crisp profile. The meat is sweet and plentiful, with visible claw pieces that deliver satisfying bites.
Grab chips or onion rings for crunch, then add a lemonade or local beer if you are lingering.
Because the Beach Plum has multiple locations, it is easy to fit into a road trip without detouring far from the water. The vibe is unfussy: order at the counter, snag a picnic table, and let the ocean breeze carry the moment.
Portions are generous enough to share, though you will probably keep it all to yourself.
What sets this roll apart is consistency and sheer abundance, served fast even on busy days. The bun stays tidy, the lobster stays bright and briny, and the seasoning never overwhelms.
When you want the taste of summer by the shore, this roll delivers simple joy in every bite.
Massachusetts – Neptune Oyster (Boston)
Neptune Oyster treats the lobster roll like a masterpiece, and you get a choice: hot with butter or cold with mayo. The hot version arrives with a glossy sheen, each bite dripping decadent butter over perfectly toasted bread.
The cold option leans delicate and herby, highlighting lobster’s sweetness with light seasoning.
Seating is tight and waits can be long, but the energy of the North End makes it part of the experience. You taste careful sourcing in every piece of claw and knuckle, each still plump and bouncy.
The bun has a gentle crisp that anchors the pile without surrendering to sogginess.
Order fries for a golden, salty companion or pair the roll with a briny oyster flight. The team moves quickly but never rushes the craft, which is why locals and travelers keep returning.
Expect a refined but totally satisfying expression of New England tradition.
Choose warm butter if you crave richness, or the chilled mayo version for clean, subtle nuance. Either way, the balance is impeccable, the portions fair, and the flavor memory sticks.
In a city packed with seafood legends, Neptune’s lobster roll earns its permanent line on merit.
Rhode Island – Matunuck Oyster Bar (South Kingstown)
Matunuck Oyster Bar sits right on the water, and the lobster roll tastes like the view looks: bright, clean, and bracingly fresh. The bun carries a generous load of tender meat, lightly dressed to keep the natural sweetness front and center.
Each bite feels like coastal Rhode Island on a perfect evening.
Pair it with local oysters to complete the ocean-to-table theme, since the raw bar here is a point of pride. The fries are crisp and salty, a proper contrast to the lush lobster.
You can add a squeeze of lemon or a dab of mayo, but restraint is the house style.
The setting makes the experience, with boats drifting and the breeze following you to the table. Service stays upbeat even during summer rush, and the kitchen keeps the roll warm and the bun structured.
It all comes together as comfort without heaviness.
Matunuck’s lobster roll is for those who love clarity of flavor rather than overworked sauces. You will leave feeling satisfied yet light, like a long walk on the beach.
If you are chasing the essence of New England seafood, this stop belongs on your list.
Connecticut – Abbott’s Lobster (Noank)
Abbott’s is a pilgrimage for anyone who loves the Connecticut-style lobster roll: warm, buttered, simple, and deeply satisfying. The meat is gently heated so it stays tender, then tucked into a toasted bun that crackles softly as you bite.
Butter flows through every strand, bringing a cozy richness without drowning the lobster.
Eat outside by the water and let the harbor set the pace, because this is a place to linger. The roll comes with no fuss, maybe a pickle and chips, and that is honestly perfect.
A sprinkle of salt and squeeze of lemon keep everything bright and balanced.
What stands out is texture, with meat that is plush yet springy and a bun that holds its form. The warmth underscores the sweetness of the lobster in a way that feels nostalgic and honest.
You can add a cup of chowder for a classic pairing.
If chilled mayo rolls are not your thing, Abbott’s will win you over to the buttered side. The flavors are direct, comforting, and entirely about the shellfish.
On a sunny day in Noank, this roll tastes like summer memories being made.
New York – Red Hook Lobster Pound (Brooklyn)
Red Hook Lobster Pound brings coastal swagger to the city, offering both Maine-style chilled and Connecticut-style warm rolls. The meat is cleanly picked with big claw pieces, and the bun is toasted just enough for structure.
You get bright seasoning on the cold version and a butter sheen on the warm.
Order at the counter, grab a seat, and watch the neighborhood hustle in the background. The roll feels generous, with lettuce optional and lemon wedges on standby.
It is the kind of sandwich that turns a regular afternoon into a mini vacation.
For sides, think Old Bay fries or a crisp slaw to keep the texture lively. The team keeps flavors balanced and portions trustworthy, so you can count on repeat quality.
It is easy to bring friends and try both styles to settle the everlasting debate.
Red Hook’s charm is how it merges dockside vibes with Brooklyn energy. You taste the sea first, then the butter or mayo, with nothing muddying the waters.
When the craving strikes and the coast is far away, this roll delivers the tide right to you.
New Jersey – Bahrs Landing Famous Seafood Restaurant & Marina (Highlands)
Bahrs Landing feels timeless, perched by the water with boats drifting just beyond the deck. The lobster roll comes generously packed, with big, clean pieces that taste like the tide.
You can go light mayo or warm butter, and either way the bun stays crisp and supportive.
Pair the roll with a view of Sandy Hook Bay and let the salt air do the rest. The fries are old-school and hot, the pickle briny, and the vibe reassuringly classic.
Service keeps pace even on busy weekends, which makes the experience smooth from first sip to last bite.
What you notice most is clarity of flavor and the absence of heavy-handed seasoning. The lobster sings, the bun hums, and the simple add-ons keep rhythm.
Ask for a lemon wedge if you like a brighter pop.
Whether you come by car or pull up from the marina, this roll rewards the journey. It is the kind of sandwich that turns into a tradition after one visit.
For a taste of Jersey shore nostalgia sharpened by fresh seafood, Bahrs delivers every time.
Delaware – Matt’s Fish Camp Lewes (Lewes)
Matt’s Fish Camp Lewes serves a lobster roll that feels beach-day easy but restaurant-level polished. The bun is buttery and lightly toasted, creating a delicate crunch that supports chilled, sweet meat.
A restrained mayo dressing keeps things silky without hiding the lobster’s briny glow.
The dining room is bright and casual, and the roll arrives tidy and photo-ready. Pair it with shoestring fries or a side salad if you want something lighter.
Lemon, a pinch of salt, and maybe a crack of pepper is all you need to dial it in.
What sets Matt’s apart is consistency and a respectful hand with seasoning. You taste clean, cool lobster, then warm toast, then a little citrus lift.
It is the kind of roll that disappears quickly and leaves you plotting a return visit.
Lewes adds the charm, with its walkable streets and bay breezes inviting a slow afternoon. Sit back, sip something crisp, and let that roll anchor the moment.
For a Delaware take on the classic that keeps it simple and fresh, this is the spot.
Maryland – Nick’s Fish House (Baltimore)
Nick’s Fish House brings a Chesapeake backdrop to a New England classic, and the result is pure fun. The lobster roll is heavy on claw and knuckle, tucked into a toasted bun that stays sturdy.
You can go chilled with light mayo or warm with butter depending on your mood.
Grab a table on the deck and pair the roll with Old Bay fries for a regional wink. The seasoning stays on the side of the fries, not the lobster, so the star remains the star.
A squeeze of lemon lifts everything while boats drift by in the background.
What you get is brightness, balance, and a generous portion that satisfies without feeling overloaded. The bun has a gentle crunch and a buttery aroma that complements the sweet meat.
Service is upbeat and quick even on game days.
Nick’s makes it easy to relax, crack into conversation, and watch the harbor do its thing. The lobster stays front and center with each bite clean and defined.
If you are seafood-hopping around Baltimore, this roll earns a top-tier stop.
Virginia – Vola’s Dockside Grill and Hi-Tide Lounge (Alexandria)
On the Alexandria waterfront, Vola’s serves a lobster roll that suits leisurely afternoons and long conversations. The bun is toasted golden, the lobster lightly dressed, and the lemon wedge earns its keep.
Each bite feels fresh and balanced with just enough richness to feel indulgent.
Grab a patio seat where you can watch the boardwalk shuffle by. The roll sits neatly in hand, with generous chunks of meat that hold their texture.
Add fries or a light salad, and you are set for a low-stress waterfront meal.
What stands out is how well the flavors stay in their lanes: butter, lobster, toast, and a hint of herb. There is no heavy sauce or distracting spice to muddle the experience.
The result is clean, coastal, and unmistakably satisfying.
Vola’s makes a convincing argument that lobster rolls thrive beyond New England when treated with care. You will finish feeling content, not weighed down, and ready for a stroll by the water.
For a Virginia take that respects the classic, this is the move.
North Carolina – Lobster Dogs Pub & Deli (Denver)
Lobster Dogs brings Maine spirit to North Carolina with a roll that is all about buttery comfort. The bun is toasted and slightly sweet, packed with warm lobster that is tender and juicy.
There is a minimalist approach to seasoning so the meat shines through.
You will find them in a pub and deli setting or catching the truck at local events. The portion is hearty without going messy, making it easy to enjoy on the go.
Add a dash of lemon or a touch of house seasoning for a subtle kick.
What makes this roll work is texture: soft meat, crisp edges on the bun, and a clean finish. It does not rely on heavy mayo, leaning instead into butter and natural sweetness.
Pair it with chips, a local beer, and some sunshine.
For a landlocked town with lake life vibes, this roll feels surprisingly coastal. You get comfort, you get clarity, and you get a sandwich that feels like a treat any day.
When the craving hits in North Carolina, Lobster Dogs has your fix.
South Carolina – RipTydz Oceanfront Grille & Rooftop Bar (Myrtle Beach)
RipTydz serves a lobster roll with a vacation mindset: sunny, breezy, and generous. The bun is buttered and lightly toasted, holding cool lobster that is gently dressed.
You can sip something icy, watch the shoreline, and settle into beach-town tempo.
The portion is solid with visible claw meat and a texture that stays neat. A lemon squeeze brightens every bite while the bun provides a warm contrast.
Add fries or hushpuppies if you want a Southern side-by-side moment.
What you notice is the easy balance between chilled meat and warm bread. The mayo is restrained, herbs are faint, and the focus stays on clean seafood flavor.
It is crowd-pleasing without compromising quality.
Take the roll upstairs to the rooftop for that endless-horizon feeling. The soundtrack is waves, laughter, and the clink of glasses on a sunny day.
If your ideal lobster roll tastes like ocean air and simple pleasure, this one nails it.
Georgia – The Steamhouse Lounge (Atlanta)
The Steamhouse Lounge proves Atlanta knows its way around a lobster roll. The bun is toasted and buttery, and the meat comes chilled with a light, creamy touch.
You get generous chunks that hold their shape and deliver that sweet, ocean-forward bite.
The scene is lively and casual, with friendly service that keeps things moving. Order a cup of lobster bisque on the side for a decadent combo.
Lemon, a pinch of salt, and maybe a dash of hot sauce bring the roll into sharp focus.
What stands out is the confidence of the build: simple, sturdy, and properly proportioned. The bun supports without collapsing, and the dressing never overwhelms.
Every bite stays balanced from first to last.
Even far from the coast, the Steamhouse makes the case that quality sourcing and care matter most. Settle in, savor the contrast of cool meat and warm toast, and enjoy the city buzz.
When in Atlanta, this roll is a reliable answer to a seaside craving.
Florida – The Nauti Lobstah (Apopka)
The Nauti Lobstah brings New England staples to central Florida with a lobster roll that feels both classic and cheerful. Choose warm buttered or chilled with mayo, and expect hefty chunks that show real care.
The bun is split-top, toasted, and lightly sweet, a perfect counterpoint to the briny meat.
The vibe is relaxed and family friendly, and plates arrive looking bright and inviting. A squeeze of lemon, a sprinkle of chive, and you are off to the races.
Add kettle chips or fries for crunch, or go lighter with a simple slaw.
What you will remember is the clarity of flavor and the balance of temperatures. The warm roll has soothing richness without heaviness, while the cold roll tastes crisp and clean.
Either way, the lobster stays center stage.
In a place known for sunshine, this roll feels like a coastal detour in the best way. Settle in, take a big bite, and let the butter or citrus do its work.
When the craving hits in the Orlando area, this spot checks every box.
Alabama – Zeke’s Restaurant (Orange Beach)
Zeke’s sits right by the marina, making a lobster roll feel perfectly at home on the Gulf. The roll leans warm and buttery with meat that stays plush and mildly sweet.
A toasted bun adds structure and a soft crunch at the edges.
It is the kind of sandwich that pairs well with a cold drink and a slow sunset. The kitchen keeps seasoning minimal to let the lobster do the talking.
A lemon wedge and a little salt are all you need to dial in brightness.
What sets this roll apart is comfort and ease. It is generous, tidy, and consistent, ideal after a day on the water.
Add fries or hushpuppies if you want something hearty, or keep it simple with slaw.
Orange Beach delivers vacation energy, and this roll leans into that vibe. You get richness without fatigue, and flavor that stays clean to the last bite.
For a Gulf Coast take that respects the New England roots, Zeke’s delivers.
Mississippi – Shaggy’s Gulfport Beach (Gulfport)
Located right on the sandy shores of Gulfport, Shaggy’s Gulfport Beach is a coastal seafood destination that brings a taste of the ocean to every plate.
While the restaurant is famous for its fresh Gulf seafood and casual, beachy vibe, one menu item stands out for lobster lovers: the lobster roll.
Shaggy’s takes pride in using generous portions of sweet, tender lobster meat, lightly dressed to let the natural flavor shine.
Guests can enjoy it the classic Maine way, chilled with just a touch of mayo, or warm with melted butter, giving a nod to Connecticut-style traditions.
The lobster is served on a perfectly toasted bun that’s soft on the inside yet slightly crisp on the outside, creating the ideal texture balance with the rich meat.
What sets Shaggy’s apart is not just the lobster itself, but the experience: sitting by the water, enjoying the gulf breeze, and watching the waves roll in while savoring each bite. The casual, family-friendly atmosphere makes it easy to relax and fully enjoy this coastal treat.
For anyone traveling along Mississippi’s Gulf Coast, Shaggy’s Gulfport Beach offers a lobster roll experience that rivals those from the traditional Northeast, proving that fresh, flavorful lobster isn’t just for New England.
Louisiana – Seaworthy (New Orleans)
Seaworthy treats seafood with reverence, and the lobster roll feels refined without losing comfort. The bun is expertly toasted, the meat chilled and lightly dressed, and the lemon is essential.
Each bite presents sweet lobster first, then gentle creaminess, then a clean finish.
The room glows with historic charm, making the roll feel like a special occasion. Add oysters or a crisp white to round out the experience.
The kitchen keeps seasoning delicate so nuances of the shellfish remain vivid.
What you notice is precision, from the tidy architecture of the bun to the bouncy texture of claw meat. There is no over-saucing, just a quiet confidence that lets ingredients speak.
The result is a New Orleans stop that honors New England while staying uniquely itself.
Between the ambiance and the disciplined build, this roll becomes a memory. It is satisfying, balanced, and elegant without pretense.
If you are wandering downtown and want seafood done right, Seaworthy has your answer.
Texas – Mystic Lobster Roll CO Fredericksburg (Fredericksburg)
Mystic Lobster Roll CO brings coastal tradition to Fredericksburg’s Hill Country streets. The roll leans classic Maine-style with chilled, mayo-kissed lobster mounded into a crisp, buttery bun.
You get visible claw pieces and a clean, slightly citrusy finish.
The setting is relaxed and friendly, perfect after wine tasting or a stroll through town. The portion feels generous without turning messy, making it easy to savor slowly.
Add kettle chips or a light slaw to keep things simple.
What stands out is the freshness and tidy build that keeps the focus on sweet meat. Seasoning stays minimal, bun texture stays snappy, and each bite lands balanced.
It is familiar in all the right ways, even miles from the shore.
Pull up a chair, take in the small-town charm, and let the roll carry you coastward. You will finish feeling satisfied and a little sun-warmed.
For Texas travelers chasing a crisp classic, this stop fits the bill perfectly.
Alaska – Alaska Chopped and Chowdered (Anchorage)
Anchorage may not be the traditional lobster‑roll capital of the U.S., but seafood lovers won’t want to miss Alaska Chopped and Chowdered for a fresh Pacific‑Northwest–inspired take on the classic coastal sandwich.
This beloved seafood restaurant has earned a strong reputation in Alaska’s largest city for its commitment to high‑quality local and imported seafood prepared with care and flavor.
While the menu celebrates Alaska’s bountiful waters with hearty chowders, crisp fish tacos, and seasonal specials, patrons often find generous lobster roll variations when lobster is in season — typically featuring tender chunks of lobster meat served in a lightly dressed roll that balances rich sweetness with bright accents.
The casual yet stylish atmosphere makes it an ideal stop for visitors exploring Anchorage’s waterfront or downtown.
Pair your lobster roll with one of Alaska Chopped and Chowdered’s signature chowders or fresh local sides for a meal that highlights both traditional New England lobster roll elements and Pacific Northwest seafood flair.
For anyone touring Alaska’s coast who wants to enjoy lobster off the beaten path, this spot delivers seafood satisfaction with Alaskan character.
Washington – Pike Place Chowder (Seattle)
Pike Place Chowder is famous for soup, but the lobster roll holds its own with clean, confident flavors. The meat is chilled and lightly dressed, sitting high in a buttered split-top bun.
You taste sweet lobster first, then toast, then a faint herbal whisper.
Grab a spot in the bustling market and let the energy be part of the meal. The roll is tidy and generous, easy to handle while people watching.
Pair it with a cup of chowder if you want full-on comfort.
What you will appreciate is the consistency and freshness even on busy days. The bun retains a gentle crunch, and the lobster stays bright and bouncy.
It is a satisfying pause in the middle of the market whirlwind.
On a misty Seattle afternoon, this roll feels like a warm welcome. The flavors are simple, balanced, and direct to the point.
For a seafood hit between stalls, Pike Place Chowder delivers beautifully.
Oregon – Tony’s Crab Shack (Bandon)
Tony’s Crab Shack is a boardwalk staple with views that make every bite taste better. The roll leans classic with a lightly toasted bun and chilled, mayo-dressed meat.
Each bite is clean, a little briny, and completely unfussy.
You order at the window, find a perch by the water, and watch the harbor rhythm. The portion is satisfying with substantial chunks that keep their bounce.
Lemon and a pinch of salt sharpen the edges without stealing focus.
What stands out is the straightforward approach and the feel of dining right at the source. The bun stays resilient, the lobster tender, and the seasoning careful.
Add chowder or a simple slaw if you want more comfort.
Bandon’s salty air and easy pace make this roll a quiet pleasure. It is the kind of meal you remember for how relaxed it felt.
When you want the coast in your hands, Tony’s keeps it real and delicious.
California – New England Lobster Market & Eatery (Burlingame)
New England Lobster Company serves a roll that tastes like a flight to Boston without leaving the Bay. The bun is buttery and crisp, packed with chilled lobster in generous chunks.
Mayo stays light, herbs stay subtle, and lemon keeps everything bright.
The space mixes market and cafe, so you feel close to the source with tanks and fresh seafood on display. Portions are robust, and the roll holds together as you chase every last bite.
Fries or clam chowder make the perfect co-star.
What you will notice is freshness and a snappy bun that keeps structure to the end. The lobster is sweet, clean, and carefully picked with plenty of claw pieces.
It is indulgent but not heavy, ideal for a leisurely lunch.
Burlingame’s easy access makes this a convenient stop for travelers and locals alike. Take a seat, breathe the briny aroma, and let the roll carry you straight to New England.
For California seafood lovers, this one is a no-brainer.
Hawaii – Fat Cheeks Hawaii (Honolulu)
Fat Cheeks Hawaii brings island cheer to a classic lobster roll, keeping flavors bright and breezy. The bun is toasted and buttery with chilled lobster dressed lightly to highlight sweetness.
You can add a citrus pop and a hint of herb for island freshness.
The vibe is fun and friendly, with plates that look as sunny as the day outside. The portion is generous yet tidy, so every bite lands clean.
Pair it with a crisp slaw or fries and something cold to sip.
What you will love is the balance of richness and lift, never heavy or fussy. The lobster stays front and center, supported by gentle creaminess and warm toast.
It is comfort food that still feels beach ready.
Honolulu’s laid-back rhythm fits perfectly with this roll’s easy pleasure. Sit back, take a bite, and let the island breeze complete the flavor.
For a Hawaii take that respects the classic, Fat Cheeks delivers with a smile.