Where can I find the best lobster roll?

A hand-painted sign advertising fresh lobster rolls hangs outside a coastal seafood shack, reflecting the simple traditions and maritime charm that have made lobster rolls one of Long Island's most iconic waterfront foods. File photo: Christopher Seufert, licensed. — A hand-painted sign advertising fresh lobster rolls hangs outside a coastal seafood shack, reflecting the simple traditions and maritime charm that have made lobster rolls one of Long Island’s most iconic waterfront foods. File photo: Christopher Seufert, licensed.

Long Island is one of the best places in New York to enjoy a fresh lobster roll, thanks to its coastal location and long tradition of serving locally inspired seafood. Whether you prefer your lobster roll served warm with butter or chilled with mayonnaise, you’ll find excellent choices at seafood restaurants, waterfront eateries, and fish markets throughout Nassau County and Suffolk County.

In Short

Long Island’s lobster rolls are known for generous portions of fresh lobster served on a toasted split-top bun, often accompanied by fries, coleslaw, or potato chips. From casual seafood shacks to waterfront restaurants, visitors can enjoy this coastal favorite across the island.

Where Can I Find the Best Lobster Roll on Long Island?

Few foods are more closely associated with summer on Long Island than the lobster roll. Restaurants throughout the island prepare their own versions using fresh lobster meat, toasted buns, and simple ingredients that allow the seafood to remain the star of the dish.

Some restaurants serve traditional Maine-style lobster rolls made with chilled lobster salad and mayonnaise, while others prepare Connecticut-style lobster rolls featuring warm lobster tossed in melted butter. Both styles have enthusiastic fans, and many Long Island restaurants offer one or both versions.

If you’re looking for a place to start, popular local favorites include Jordan Lobster Farms in Island Park and Claudio’s Restaurant in Greenport. Both have built outstanding reputations for fresh seafood and are popular destinations for visitors looking to enjoy an authentic Long Island lobster roll.

Quick Facts

Looking For…	What You’ll Find
Traditional Styles	Maine-style (cold with mayonnaise) and Connecticut-style (warm with butter).
Popular Nassau County Restaurant	Jordan Lobster Farms – Island Park – https://jordanlobsterfarms.com
Popular Suffolk County Restaurant	Claudio’s Restaurant – Greenport – https://claudios.com
Typical Sides	French fries, coleslaw, potato chips, pickle spears, and fresh lemon.
Best Time to Enjoy	Available year-round at many restaurants, with peak popularity during the spring and summer months.

Editorial Note: Recommendations on this page are chosen independently by the LongIslandGuide.com editorial team based on reputation, visitor experience, and local significance. Featured businesses do not pay for placement, and inclusion should not be interpreted as a ranking of all businesses on Long Island.

Whether you prefer your lobster roll warm with butter or chilled with mayonnaise, Long Island offers outstanding places to enjoy one of the region’s most iconic seafood dishes. With waterfront restaurants, seafood markets, and longtime local favorites across both counties, a memorable lobster roll is never far away.