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Photograph: 80’below
Photograph: 80’below

Bangkok’s 7 ultimate lobster rolls

From humble beginnings to global sensation, the decadent lobster roll has finally come ashore, and we caught the capital’s seven absolute best

Daniel Van Norden
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The tale of the lobster roll is one of the food world’s great Cinderella stories. Originating as humble fare on the North Atlantic seaboard of New England, this delectable decapod was once so abundant and wholly disregarded, it was considered fit for consumption only by dogs and prisoners. As of today, it has been globally lionised as the quintessential opulent seafood lunch indulgence. For those, like me, who grew up enjoying post clambake or lobster boil leftovers – the tail, knuckle and claw meat repurposed into a homemade summertime treat – this sandwich carries serious nostalgic weight. Now, thanks to modern logistics, one third of all harvested American lobster travels straight to Asia, with live lobsters landing daily in Bangkok.

By tide and good fortune, talented local and expat chefs have risen to the opportunity, mastering the art of this deceivingly simple sandwich. Our judging criteria demanded cool-handed restraint: a grilled buttered bun, gently cooked meat that yields sweetly and a dressing that elevates, rather than overpowers the subtle lobster flavour. We evaluated the classic Connecticut (warm butter) and Maine (chilled mayo) styles, alongside the new wave of modern creative interpretations. Here is the definitive list of seven spots proving that the Big Mango is now happy hunting grounds for the mighty lobster roll.

  • Siam

What is it?: A sharply focused seafood establishment situated cleverly adjacent to Thammachart Seafood’s impressive fresh retail counter in Siam Paragon’s Gourmet Market. With New York-pedigree Chef Jay Rodriguez at the helm, the cooking here operates with a Michelin-star level of precision and care.

Why we love it: This kitchen treats the lobster like a precious jewel. While their dry-aged grilled fish programme is a multi-day study in perfectionism, the roll itself (B790) is a masterclass in à la minute simplicity. It’s an impeccable balance of toasted brioche and pristine meat, showcasing the subtle sweetness of the lobster without distraction. It stands alone as the city’s champion.

Time Out tip: Don't let the supermarket setting fool you; this is destination dining for the unpretentious, yet serious, gourmand. Order uni toast with caviar and creme fraise and for the perfect pairing, a crisp dry white wine to cut through the buttery richness and enhance the oceanic flavours. 

Address: Gourmet Market, Siam Paragon, Pathum Wan. 10am-10pm

  • Khlong Toei

What is it?: A chic, dedicated maritime haven, fantastic selection of high-grade European and American oysters, an extensive caviar selection, and breathtaking chilled seafood towers.

Why we love it: They champion a sophisticated purist approach to the lobster roll (B1,280), focusing on perfectly capturing the Connecticut style served on a warm, French butter brioche bun. It’s a sophisticated creation that screams of summers by the ocean, perfectly supported by their on-display wine selection in a cozy space hidden away from the hustle of Sukhumvit road.

Time Out tip: Begin your meal with a selection of their fresh oysters and a cold seafood platter before moving onto the main event. Everything is gently cooked, chilled then served with an appropriately spicy but very well-balanced Thai seafood sauce.

Address: Sukhumvit Soi 26. 11.30am-3pm, 5.30pm-11pm

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  • Khlong Toei

What is it?: A dedicated lobster bistro famous for their update on a traditional dish, the Lobster ob woon sen (baked glass noodles), showing a true commitment to the star crustacean and classic Thai-Chinese cooking heritage. This one of a kind restaurant  is a lobster lover’s candy land..

Why we love it: Their approach to the lobster roll (B890) leans heavily into warm indulgence. It’s a buttery, glorious creation featuring large chunks of fresh lobster claw meat blended with a zesty lemon mayo and served in a house-made brioche. The fun part is the table service: a side of melted garlic butter sauce to be poured over the roll, creating a deliciously messy, rich experience.

Time Out tip: Save room, or bring a friend. While the roll is essential, it’s criminal to leave without trying their famous lobster ob woon sen.

Address: Sukhumvit Alley 20. 11am-midnight

  • Ratchaprasong

What is it?: The reliable, global institution that built its reputation on a simple choice: a burger, a whole lobster or the roll. It is the gold standard for consistent, high-quality surf-and-turf. They have now taken it to the next level with a lobster khao soi, creamy lobster croquettes and more.

Why we love it: The classic lobster roll here (B1,500) is the dictionary definition of the Maine-style, chilled mayo salad. The lobster is freshly chilled, dressed in lemon mayo, garnished with finely chopped chives and served on a butter griddled brioche with a slice of lemon on the side. This perfect summation of the original would satisfy even a Cape Cod local.

Time Out tip: The lemon garlic butter is liquid gold. Don’t be shy; ask for an extra portion and don’t forget to dip your fries in it. It’s worth every single indulgent calorie.

Address: Gaysorn Village. 11am-11pm

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  • Watthana

What is it?: A progressive and talented kitchen that specialises in fresh pasta, often blending in eclectic influences for inventive fusions, all backed by a strong cocktail list and an oasis of an interior.

Why we love it: Chef Piriyapat’s lobster roll (B700) is a truly unique experience. Instead of a standard roll, she gets adventurous, a risky gamble which pays off big. A flakey layered pastry dough with succulent lobster tossed in a pickled wasabi tartar sauce that offers a surprising, aromatic kick is unquestionably delicious and proves they know how to have fun.

Time Out tip: Please don’t stop at the lobster. Their fresh pasta menu is all handmade from scratch and equally deserving of your attention. The spaghetti gyukatsu with smoked beef cheek is worth the trip alone.

Address: 714/7 Sukhumvit, behind Aroon Cafe. 10am-10pm

  • Phrom Phong

What is it?: An established and highly respected seafood purveyor in Bangkok, often credited as the original location to popularise the high-quality, casual lobster roll in this city.

Why we love it: Their lobster roll (B750) recipe balances classic American and European flavour with light luxury. The house brioche roll is loaded with lobster chunks, seasoned with the iconic Old Bay spice, and lifted by notes of fresh tarragon and a drizzle of subtle truffle oil. It’s hearty, aromatic and the bed of julienned crisp lettuce helps cut through the richness beautifully.

Time Out tip: located inside EmQuartier, this is a perfect downtown spot to drop in mid-shop. Don’t skip the impressive selection of imported oysters served with a housemade mignonette.

Address: Gourmet Market, EmQuartier. 10am-10pm

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  • Thonglor

What is it?: On the second floor of the ever-buzzing The Commons Thonglor, The Lobster Lab is a seafood specialist casual dining spot dedicated to the glorious lobster roll. They are known for their playful approach, offering several creative takes on the classic. Plus a great selection of fresh oysters and craft beers.

Why we love it: This place is casual and unpretentious fun! While every spot on this top-seven list is incredible, The Lobster Lab provides a go-to, value-conscious lobster roll (B590) for when that sudden, irresistible craving hits, and you need a fantastic fix without the fuss of a reservation. It hits the spot every time.

Time Out tip: Compliment the signature Boston Roll and round out the perfect seafood lunch by ordering the fried seafood platter. With lobster croquettes, crispy squid and fried oysters, it’s not health-conscious but it’s definitely a form of self-love.

Address: The Commons, Thonglor. 10am-10pm

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