The Best Lobster Roll. Still Searching the East End.
In Search of the Best Lobster Roll on the East End
That elusive best lobster roll. A couple of summers ago, Tina Folks talked about her search for the best on the Maine coast. We acknowledge the sweet deliciousness of the Maine lobster, and tip our hats to New England for “inventing” the lobster roll in the first place… but come on this is the East End people! Home of the Hamptons and the North Fork, we have AMAZING lobster rolls here too.
I apologize in advance if just the thought of an East End lobster roll makes your mouth water. I too have been doing a fair amount of drooling for one since I became allergic to shellfish a couple of years ago. They used to be a summertime favorite. However, as a public service, I have rounded up the top picks of my local foodie connections on both Forks. The elements that the best Hamptons and North Fork lobster rolls have in common are the overflowing chunks of tail and claw lobster meat, not too much mayo if it is used, and a delicious roll. In the main, versions of one or both of these types of lobster rolls are offered: cold lobster “salad” with mayonnaise, celery, and seasonings, or warm chunks of lobster with butter and herbs.
Please note that this list is not all inclusive, rather the establishments mentioned most as serving up the best lobster roll on the East End. My survey date was Summer 2021—Summer 2023.
Also in the realm of public service, be advised that you will likely drop a pretty penny for most of these. But trust me, it will be worth it.
Hamptons
Lobster Roll AKA LUNCH, Amagansett
Clam Bar, Amagansett/Napeague
Duryea’s, Montauk
Inlet Seafood, Montauk
Bostwick’s Chowder House, East Hampton
The Dock, Sag Harbor
*Summer 2023: Bostwick’s got an additional two thumbs up, “might be the best ever” endorsement by visiting lobster roll aficionados. Bostwick’s serves both styles of lobster roll. This rating was based on the cold lobster “salad” style roll.
North Fork
North Fork Table & Inn, Food Truck, Southold
Claudio’s on Main, Greenport
Duryea’s, Orient
Modern Snack Bar, Aquebogue (this is a sandwich, not a “roll;” it weighs about a pound!
Case’s Place, New Suffolk
Well, this is a nice surprise! We received write-in recommendations! Please send in your choice for best lobster roll on the East End, by entering a comment, on the Hummingbird Facebook page, of by clicking here. We will list the write-in recommendations below.
Canal Cafe, Hampton Bays (2 write-ins!)
Fontino’s Tavern, Greenport
