Philly's Lobster Roll Quest: A Guide to the City's Best

Philly Restaurants Where You Can Get Lobster Rolls

The lobster roll is the undisputed king of summer sandwiches, a perfect combination of sweet, succulent lobster meat piled into a buttery, toasted bun. While its origins lie in the coastal towns of New England, Philadelphia has wholeheartedly embraced this delicious delicacy, with a fantastic array of restaurants serving up top-tier versions. Whether you're a purist who prefers the classic cold-with-mayo Maine style or a devotee of the warm-with-butter Connecticut style, the city has a perfect lobster roll waiting for you. Here is a guide to the best spots to find them.

Maine vs. Connecticut Style: Know Your Roll

• Maine Style (Cold): The most common style, featuring chilled lobster meat tossed lightly in mayonnaise with a bit of celery or chives.

Connecticut Style (Hot): Simple and decadent, this version features warm lobster meat poached in a generous amount of melted butter.Top Spots for Lobster Rolls in Philadelphia:

1. Luke's Lobster (Rittenhouse Square):
   • The Roll: For the quintessential, authentic Maine-style lobster roll, Luke's Lobster is the gold standard. This popular spot is known for its commitment to sustainable, traceable seafood. Their roll is packed with a quarter-pound of chilled, wild-caught lobster knuckle and claw meat, served in a classic, buttered split-top bun with a touch of mayo, lemon butter, and secret seasoning.
   • The Vibe: A bright, casual, and quick-service eatery that consistently delivers a high-quality, authentic taste of a New England lobster shack.
2. Oyster House (Center City):
   • The Roll: A true Philadelphia seafood institution, Oyster House gives you a choice, offering a fantastic version of both the Maine-style (cold with mayo) and the Connecticut-style (warm with butter) lobster roll. Their commitment to fresh, high-quality seafood shines through in every bite.
   • The Vibe: A timeless, classic American seafood hall with a bustling, energetic atmosphere and a magnificent marble raw bar.
3. Devon Seafood Grill (Rittenhouse Square):
   • The Roll: For a more upscale, sit-down experience, Devon Seafood Grill serves an elegant and delicious lobster roll. It's a refined take on the classic, perfect for a business lunch or a sophisticated dinner.
   • The Vibe: A stylish and upscale restaurant with a comfortable dining room and a lively bar, known for its premium seafood and excellent service.
4. Pearl's Oyster Bar (Reading Terminal Market):
   • The Roll: Located in the bustling and historic Reading Terminal Market, Pearl's Oyster Bar is a fantastic spot for a quick and delicious seafood lunch. Their classic lobster roll is a customer favorite, served up fresh at their no-frills lunch counter.
   • The Vibe: A classic market experience. Grab a seat at the counter and enjoy your lobster roll amidst the energetic chaos of one of the country's best public markets.
5. Liberty Point (Penn's Landing):
   • The Roll: As the city's largest outdoor restaurant, Liberty Point offers a fantastic lobster roll with an unbeatable view. Enjoying their classic, fresh lobster roll while sitting on their massive patio overlooking the Delaware River is a quintessential summer experience.
   • The Vibe: A huge, casual, and lively indoor-outdoor space with a fun, festive atmosphere, multiple bars, and live music.
6. Anastasi Seafood (Italian Market):
   • The Roll: A long-standing family-owned seafood market and restaurant in the heart of the Italian Market, Anastasi Seafood offers a fantastic and authentic lobster roll. It's a classic preparation using the freshest seafood available.
   • The Vibe: A true South Philly neighborhood gem where you can eat in or buy fresh seafood to take home from the market.

From the authentic Maine-style rolls at Luke's Lobster to the classic choice of hot or cold at Oyster House and the incredible waterfront views at Liberty Point, Philadelphia's lobster roll scene is brimming with delicious options. These top-rated establishments showcase the city's ability to perfect this beloved New England classic, offering a sweet and savory taste of summer right here in Philly.

Written By: Philly Bite Magazines Staff

Philadelphia Best Of Series consists of a round-up of the best places to find great food, entertainment, and more in Philly.

Best Philadelphia Lobster Rolls