Nothing says summer like a big, juicy lobster! Whether you crush this crustacean once a week, or it’s more of a special occasion kind of thing, we’ve compiled some of our favorite local haunts where you can get your lobster on. From lobster mac-and-cheese to lobster rolls, and everything in between, it’s time to taste the flavors of summer in the city.
And with National Lobster Day coming up on June 15, you have plenty of time to make your plans to celebrate on National Lobster Day — or anytime in the coming months!
Here are our picks for the best Philly restaurants for lobster:
The Wallet-Friendly Lobster Option: Red Owl Tavern
The Monday Lobster Special: Bait & Switch
Bait & Switch knows what you need on the first day of the workweek: a lobster dinner. Stop in for a one-and-a-half-pound lobster, corn on the cob, and red potatoes served with a salad to start, and a special dessert to finish, all for $28.95. But, remember to get there early, as Bait & Switch will only have a limited amount of lobsters. Pair your feast with a Narragansett or sip on one of Bait & Switch’s specially crafted punches. 2537 E. Somerset St., Philadelphia; (
A Social Gathering Lobster Feast: Oyster House
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Get your gang together (more than six people, please) for a New England-style seafood feast at the Oyster House. The Dump Dinner, served family-style, includes Maine lobster, steamed clams and mussels, sausage, veggies and potatoes. You’ll also have a bunch of hand-cut fries and cabbage slaw to enjoy, included in the $35-per-person cost. Feeling super-hungry? Add on raw oysters and clams-on-the-half-shell and shrimp cocktail. Super-thirsty? Add on all-you-can-drink Narraganset pounders, house red or white wine, and Kelly’s Punch for just $20 per person — and get the summer party started! Please note: the Oyster House needs at least 48 hours notice to get your feast prepared. 1516 Sansom St, Philadelphia; (215) 567-7683
The Lobster Roll: Luke’s Lobster
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What’s summer without the first lobster roll of the season? And then the second, third, fourth … We suggest stopping into Luke’s Lobster, located just steps from Rittenhouse Square. Luke’s lobster roll features a quarter-pound of chilled, wild-caught lobster in a split-top bun with melted lemon butter, mayo and Luke’s secret seasoning. There’s ample indoor seating, or you can take your roll to go for a picnic in the park. And remember, Luke’s is BYOB, so bring some brews to wash down your rolls! 130 S. 17th St., Philadelphia; (215) 564-1415
Lobster Mac-and-Cheese: Devon Seafood Grill
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Nothing is better than mac-and-cheese, right? And, if you’re craving a little comfort food in the summer, why not get all seasonal with the addition of lobster? Devon Seafood Grill, right in Rittenhouse, does it right with its oh-so-creamy version. Order the mac as a side — or as your main course, let’s get real — the next time you have a hankering that can’t be ignored. And don’t forget about Devon’s happy hour with ultra-premium cocktails, appetizers and lobster specials, plus signature handcrafted martinis. 225 S. 18th St., Philadelphia; (215) 546-5940
The Lobster Splurge: Butcher and Singer
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Step into Butcher and Singer for an homage to the glitz and class of Golden Era Hollywood. While the menu is built around an unparalleled selection of perfectly charred steaks and chops, it also includes an extensive raw bar, plus iconic entrees like the Twin Lobster Tails. Served simply with a wedge of lemon and melted butter, this is one splurge where you’ll feel no guilt! Pair your entree with a classic cocktail; we suggest a classic martini or a Manhattan. 500 Walnut St., Philadelphia; (215) 732-4444
How do you plan to get your lobster on in Philly this summer?
- Feature photo: Red Owl Tavern
- Monday lobster dinner photo: Bait & Switch