17 best lobster rolls in Boston

At Row 34, the lobster rolls are just like what chef/owner Jeremy Sewall’s grandmother, Ethel, used to make. While the creamy, cold version of this classic is a must, especially for nostalgia's sake, the Seaport spot also serves the even more sinful warm roll. Grab the latter and you'll get a griddled roll packed with sweet lobster meat that's simply been dressed in melted butter and salt.

Head to this Seaport mainstay for lobster rolls, fried clams, steamers, chowder and other classic seafood shack dishes. You'll find the classic hot and cold lobster rolls, but what really sets this place apart is its fried version. That's right, the kitchen fries pieces of fresh lobster and serves it on a bun. Purists may cringe at the thought, but more for you?

Simple and straightforward, Lobstah on a Roll specializes in just that. Depending on your hunger level, folks can come in and choose from two different sizes of rolls: the 4-oz Bostonian or the 6-oz Standahd. All of the goods on the menu—the lobster, shrimp, and crab rolls—are all sustainably sourced and served in a split-top New England style bun with mayo, lemon butter, and the restaurant's secret seasoning. Yeah, I would recommend adding the 6-oz roll to the cart.

A 2021 addition to Boston’s seafood scene,The Banks Fish House was launched by the team behind local institutions Bistro du Midi and Grill 23. The establishment offers their roll hot or cold on a brown butter bun. Topped with sea salt and chives, and paired with Old Bay potato chips, this version tastes like summer on a plate.

From their humble beginnings in a shack in Eastie, to their current sprawling waterfront spot in Winthrop, Belle Isle has consistently served an excellent, half-pound lobster roll. Dressed with a hint of mayo and a nice crunch of lettuce, it’s served on a griddled bun and comes with your choice of sides. Take a big bite while you enjoy the Boston skyline. It’s cash only, but they do have an ATM on site.

For locals, it's a tradition, and for visitors, it's a special treat. Sullivan's Castle Island has been serving customers since 1951, and has since become synonymous with the perfect summer take-out experience. While the iconic snack shack offers all the classic dishes, the lobster roll is a must-try. Customers can enjoy their food right by the water, either from the picnic tables outside or the nearby grassy area. If you're feeling full after your meal, it's not uncommon to take a walk around the Castle Island loop and return to Sully’s for a second helping.

For eaters who might claim that they’ve tried it all when it comes to seafood, they might stand corrected, thanks to Saltie Girl. This Back Bay establishment always finds a way to reinvigorate the oceanic classics—and that includes its warm lobster roll, which is topped with beurre blanc and lobster roe. For those unbearably hot summer days, there’s also a refreshing cold version, kissed with mayo.

If you’re going to splurge on one of these sandwiches, why not go straight to the source? Luke’s Lobster is a family-owned seafood business that was founded by third-generation lobsterman, Luke Holden, and sustainably sources these crustaceans from the waters of Maine. There are two storefronts throughout the city, each serving 4- or 6-ounces of fresh lobster meat stuffed into a regular, truffle butter or pesto roll.

This East Boston restaurant is a landmark waterfront destination, with a globally-inspired menu that incorporates all of the fresh New England flavors. Reelhouse serves their lobster rolls both hot or cold, topped with drawn butter and mixed greens all wrapped up in a toasted bun. The elevated dining experience isn’t complete until you’ve enjoyed a specialty cocktail and have taken a photo of the breathtaking view. 

Pauli's, a North End staple, is renowned for its generous sandwiches. Their lobster roll is no exception, and the USS Lobstitution is a massive sandwich that boasts a whopping 25 ounces of knuckle and claw meat. For those who prefer a more moderate portion size, Pauli's also serves a 7-ounce roll and a 14-ounce sub. Whether you're up for a challenge or simply looking for a satisfying meal, Pauli's lobster rolls are sure to hit the spot.

North End favorite Neptune Oyster is exemplary in its East Coast seafood preparations. Neptune’s lobster roll is one of the most celebrated, available either hot with butter, or cold with mayo, both served on a toasted brioche roll. Given that this tiny eatery is located in one of the busiest neighborhoods in town, you can expect a wait out the door for a marble-topped table or a seat at the bar.

This North End spot’s roll is probably a little bit of a sleeper, but it stands above others because it’s served (hot or cold) on a freshly baked brioche roll from Bricco Panetteria. Paired with rosemary fries—and, if you’re lucky, a seat on the patio— it’s an unforgettable take.

This James Beard Award-winning, Portland-based restaurant is famous for its brown butter lobster roll. This singular treat features a bao-like bun, which soaks up all of the delicious dressing while perfectly complimenting the sweet Maine lobster meat. Since it opened its Fenway location, Eventide has been luring in gourmands to sample its unique take on the classic sandwich. Gluten-free bread is also available upon request.

This no-frills seafood shack ships 50,000 pounds of lobster to restaurants and wholesale distributors around the country each day, so you know its product is fresh and delicious. Served on a buttery roll and overflowing with meat, its lobster roll has just the right ratio of mayo and seasoning.

Although this spot is known for their oyster bar, the lobster roll at B&G Oysters is a good enough reason to visit this South End spot. If you’re feeling adventurous, the lobster BLT might catch your eye. A native of South Boston, Chef Barbara Lynch is regarded as one of the world’s leading restaurateurs and has been previously named to the TIME 100 list of most influential people.

As the flagship location within the Legal Sea Foods empire, Legal Harborside offers three floors of different dining experiences, all with sweeping views of Boston Harbor. Grab a waterfront table out back and get your hands on a traditional warm or cold roll. As with all of Legal’s dishes, the seafood is remarkably fresh.

Peruvian meets Asian lobster roll? Yes, it is worth a try before summer is over. The “Yuzu Lobster” roll is a maki roll made with yuzu-lime lobster, cucumber, avocado, mango, aji amarillo, bubu arare and cilantro. The yuzu-lime lobster provides a fresh pop of flavor to your palate and may even give a traditional lobster roll on a brioche bun a run for its money!

Boston’s best seafood restaurants serve fresh, local fish in a variety of preparations, from freshly shucked oysters and creamy clam chowder to delicate crudo. Some restaurants focus on traditional New England recipes, while others prepare their seafood with Italian or Mediterranean influences.