NEW JERSEY - When it comes to the great lobster roll debate, seafood lovers are usually divided into two passionate camps: Maine style (served chilled with a touch of mayo) and Connecticut style (served warm, drenched in drawn butter). Fortunately, the New Jersey dining scene doesn't make you choose. From authentic coastal shacks in South Jersey to bustling seafood markets up north, the Garden State offers a variety of lobster roll styles to excite every seafood enthusiast.
Whether you're cruising the Shore or exploring the State urban culinary hubs, here are the 10 best spots to enjoy memorable lobster rolls in New Jersey, ensuring you find a quality experience that meets your expectations.
1. Point Lobster Co. (Point Pleasant Beach)
This family-owned business has been serving lobster rolls at the Jersey Shore for more than 30 years. If you want an authentic experience, head to their market in the commercial fishing district on the Manasquan Inlet. They offer both the cold, mayo-y Maine and hot, buttery Connecticut styles of lobster rolls, but the hot version—an overflowing pile of fresh lobster with melted butter and a squeeze of lemon on a lightly toasted hot dog roll—is a true standout.
2. Quincy's Original Lobster Rolls (Cape May, Sea Isle City, Ocean City, Wildwood, Avalon, Stone Harbor)
A group of friends vacationing in New England was so blown away by Maine's lobster rolls that they brought them home to the Jersey Shore. Their version of the New England favorite is prepared with mayo and butter, and each one is served with Cape Cod chips and a pickle. With multiple locations dotting the southern coast, it is easier than ever to get your hands on this consistently high-quality roll.
With multiple locations and styles, Quincy's makes it easy for foodies to explore and enjoy high-quality lobster rolls along the southern coast.
A true gem of the South Jersey food scene, this iconic surfer bar and restaurant offers a relaxed coastal atmosphere alongside fantastic food. Their Jersey-Style Lobster Roll is an absolute must-try, loaded with generous portions of fresh lobster salad, served on a bed of lettuce with tomato slices. Grab a seat by the outdoor fire pits, order a craft beer, and enjoy a genuine seaside meal that connects you to the ocean.
4. Scale Fish Market (Jersey City)
This small-town, family-run seafood market has a cozy atmosphere and consistently offers high-quality seafood. Their Maine-style lobster rolls come with plump chunks of lobster and fresh dill, lightly dressed with mayo. If you prefer it hot, the brown butter version is rich, buttery, and heavily seasoned, closely resembling the ultra-fresh rolls you would find in Boston. They also offer gluten-free bread options upon request, catering to dietary restrictions.
5. Jack's Lobster Shack (Edgewater & Cresskill)
This BYO spot is owned by a seafood lover who brought his favorite lobster meat from Maine to Jersey. A unique feature of Jack's is that they allow you to pick your own live lobster to be prepared for you. They proudly serve both Maine-style and buttery Connecticut-style rolls, so there's no need to choose between the two.
6. Mystic Lobster Roll Company (Seaside Heights)
If you like variety, Mystic Lobster Roll Company is the place to be. They offer classic lobster rolls in various combinations. Beyond the traditional styles, their BLT lobster roll is a massive crowd-pleaser that elevates the sandwich with savory bacon.
7. Rick's Seafood (North Wildwood)
Absent nearly any frills, this spot thrives on the pure quality of the product they put out. Demand is high—calling bright and early on a Saturday might mean your pickup time isn't until after dinner—but the wait is entirely worth it. Their fresh, high-quality seafood speaks for itself, making it a mandatory stop for anyone visiting the Wildwoods.
8. Hooked JC (Jersey City)
Founded by two Florida natives who never expected to open a restaurant together, this seafood shack knows how to treat a crustacean. Their signature lobster roll is served Maine style with mayo on a buttered potato roll.
9. The Lobster House (Cape May)
Located overlooking Cape May Harbor in historic Cape May, NJ, The Lobster House has proudly provided guests with a variety of dining experiences for over four generations. You can enjoy your meal dockside or visit the 130-foot-long, authentic Grand Banks sailing vessel, the Schooner American, which is moored right at the dock and offers a phenomenal waterfront ambiance.
10. Mason's Famous Lobster Rolls (Long Branch)
Located on Ocean Avenue, Mason's offers a variety of lobster rolls, including the Classic, served chilled with mayo and lemon butter; the warm Connecticut Roll; and the Lobster BLT, perfect for those seeking a flavorful experience, especially the Bar Harbor, with 50% more lobster meat and a whole lobster tail.
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Joy Franklin
Food and Event Writer
My joy is for food and foodies. I enjoy covering trends, issues, and all things Philly.
