Best Lobster Rolls at the Jersey Shore
From classic Maine-style to Connecticut warm butter, find the Jersey Shore's best lobster rolls. Fresh lobster, buttery buns, and ocean views.
Lobster Rolls at the Jersey Shore
While New England gets most of the lobster roll fame, the Jersey Shore holds its own with excellent versions at seafood shacks, upscale restaurants, and everything in between.
Many Jersey Shore spots source lobster from Maine and Canada, preparing it fresh daily. You'll find both classic cold lobster rolls (mayo-based, Maine-style) and warm butter-drenched Connecticut-style rolls.
The best Jersey Shore lobster rolls feature generous portions of sweet lobster meat on a buttered, toasted split-top roll. Pair with fries, coleslaw, and an ocean view for the ultimate shore experience.
Monmouth County
North Shore lobster spots
Inlet Cafe
Casual riverside spot with a solid lobster roll and great views.
Bahrs Landing
Historic waterfront institution with excellent lobster and NYC skyline views.
Popular marina restaurant with generous Connecticut-style lobster rolls.
McLoone's Pier House
Oceanfront dining with an upscale take on the classic lobster roll.
Ocean County
LBI lobster favorites
LBI institution known for one of the best lobster rolls at the shore.
Upscale inn restaurant with a refined lobster roll.
Modern marina restaurant with an elevated lobster roll and craft cocktails.
Ship Bottom Shellfish
Seafood market with a small restaurant serving incredibly fresh lobster rolls.
Atlantic County
Casino town and downbeach delights
Atlantic City's oldest restaurant with an impeccable classic lobster roll.
Steve & Cookie's
Upscale bay-side restaurant with an excellent lobster roll and views.
Bayside gem at Gardner's Basin with a solid lobster roll at a fair price.
Cape May County
Cape classics and Wildwood favorites
Iconic Cape May spot with their own fishing fleet and outstanding lobster.
Casual waterfront spot with a good lobster roll at a reasonable price.
Wildwood waterfront favorite with fresh lobster and sunset views.
Oyster Bay Restaurant
Upscale Avalon seafood spot with an excellent warm butter lobster roll.
Lobster Roll Tips
Know Your Styles
Maine-style is cold with mayo. Connecticut-style is warm with butter. Some places offer both—ask!
Market Price Warning
Lobster prices fluctuate. "Market price" can vary wildly. Ask before ordering to avoid sticker shock.
Lunch is Best
Many lobster roll spots are casual lunch spots. Hit them at lunch for fresher lobster and shorter waits.
Size Matters
Not all lobster rolls are equal. Ask about lobster weight—a good roll has 4-6oz of meat.
FAQ
What's the difference between Maine and Connecticut-style lobster rolls?
Maine-style lobster rolls are cold, with lobster meat mixed with mayo and often celery, served on a toasted bun. Connecticut-style are warm, with lobster meat tossed in drawn butter. Both are served on split-top hot dog buns.
What's a fair price for a lobster roll at the Jersey Shore?
Expect to pay $22-35 for a quality lobster roll with 4-6oz of meat. Under $20 often means less lobster. Over $35 is upscale pricing. "Market price" can vary—always ask before ordering.
Which Jersey Shore spot has the best lobster roll?
Kubel's in Barnegat Light is consistently rated among the best. The Lobster House in Cape May is iconic. Bahrs Landing in Highlands is a historic favorite. Each has devoted fans.
Is lobster roll season year-round?
Most spots serve lobster rolls year-round, but quality and availability peak from May-September when lobster is freshest. Some seasonal spots close in winter.
Can I get a lobster roll to go for the beach?
Yes! Many casual spots will pack lobster rolls to-go. Order Maine-style (cold) for beach eating—it travels better than warm butter-style. Eat within an hour for best quality.
Are there any BYOB spots with good lobster rolls?
Ship Bottom Shellfish is BYOB and serves fresh lobster rolls from their market. Some casual spots allow BYOB—call ahead to confirm.
Do I need reservations for lobster rolls at popular spots?
Most lobster roll spots are casual and first-come, first-served. Upscale places like Dock's Oyster House or Steve & Cookie's may need reservations on weekends. Kubel's often has a wait—arrive early.
Are lobster rolls gluten-free friendly?
The lobster itself is gluten-free, but traditional split-top buns contain gluten. Some restaurants offer gluten-free buns or can serve the lobster salad over greens—ask your server.