San Diego's Best Lobster Roll [Updated 2024]

From sunny beaches to mouthwatering seafood, San Diego has a lot to offer. And when it comes to lobster rolls, I consider myself an expert.

With 13 lobster roll joints under my belt and countless buttery bites devoured, I am excited to share my findings with you. So grab your bib and get ready for a lighthearted journey through the best lobster rolls in San Diego!

Whether you're a local or visiting this beautiful coastal city, this article will guide you straight to the most scrumptious rolls in town. Let's dive in and find out who deserves the title of the best lobster roll in San Diego!

Ironside Fish & Oyster

Highlights
$1 oysters
Clam chowder
Fish tacos
Outstanding service
Cool vibe

As I stepped into Ironside Fish & Oyster, I was immediately captivated by its cool vibe and nautical-themed decor. The place exudes a playful yet sophisticated atmosphere that sets the stage for a memorable dining experience.

Before diving into their renowned lobster roll, I decided to explore a few other items on the menu. And boy, was I in for a treat! The $1 oysters were an absolute steal and a delightful start to my meal. Each briny bite transported me straight to the seaside, as if the ocean itself had been captured within these delicate shells.

Next up was their clam chowder, which proved to be nothing short of exceptional. The velvety texture and rich flavors of the broth were simply divine. It was like sipping on liquid gold while being wrapped in a cozy blanket of comfort.

Of course, being at Ironside Fish & Oyster, I couldn't resist trying their fish tacos. And let me tell you, they did not disappoint! The perfectly seasoned and lightly battered fish combined with fresh toppings created an explosion of flavors in every bite.

Aside from the delectable food, what truly stood out at Ironside Fish & Oyster was the outstanding service. The staff went above and beyond to ensure that every guest felt welcomed and attended to with utmost care.

But let's get down to business—the lobster roll. Ah, what can I say? It was a work of art! A buttery brioche bun cradled succulent chunks of lobster meat dressed in just the right amount of mayo. Every mouthful was pure bliss—a harmonious symphony of textures and flavors that left me utterly satisfied.

In conclusion, Ironside Fish & Oyster is undoubtedly a contender for the title of best lobster roll in San Diego. With its cool vibe, outstanding service, and an array of tantalizing seafood options on offer, it's a must-visit for any seafood lover.

You might also want to check out the best lobster roll in LA Jolla.

Water Grill San Diego

Highlights
Great dining experience
Well lit and clean
Easy menu
Good portions
Highly recommended

From the moment I walked in, I knew I was in for a great dining experience. The restaurant was well lit and clean, creating an inviting atmosphere that instantly put me at ease. As a lobster roll enthusiast, I appreciated the easy-to-navigate menu that showcased their seafood offerings.

Now, let's talk about the star of the show: the lobster roll. Water Grill San Diego certainly did not disappoint. The portion size was generous, allowing me to indulge without feeling overwhelmed. The lobster meat itself was succulent and tender, perfectly complemented by a light dressing that enhanced its natural flavors.

One aspect that sets Water Grill San Diego apart is their attention to detail. The roll itself was toasted to perfection, adding a delightful crunch to each bite. The presentation was also top-notch, with the roll elegantly arranged on the plate alongside some crispy fries and a fresh side salad.

I must say, after devouring this delectable creation, I can understand why Water Grill San Diego comes highly recommended among locals and visitors alike. They truly know how to deliver a lobster roll experience worth savoring.

So whether you're a seasoned lobster roll aficionado or just embarking on your crustacean journey, make your way to Water Grill San Diego for an unforgettable taste sensation. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

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Marion's Fish Market & Restaurant

Highlights
Quick service
Large portions
Outdoor seating
Amazing food
Great deals

Let me start by saying that Marion's Fish Market & Restaurant is a hidden gem when it comes to lobster rolls in San Diego. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted with quick service and a warm smile. The staff was knowledgeable about their menu and eager to make recommendations.

Now, let's talk about the star of the show - the lobster roll itself. Oh boy, where do I even begin? The portion size was enormous, making it perfect for those with a hearty appetite or for two people to share. As I took my first bite, I could taste the freshness of the lobster meat, perfectly cooked and seasoned just right. The combination of tender lobster chunks nestled in a buttery toasted bun was simply divine.

To add to the experience, Marion's Fish Market & Restaurant offers outdoor seating, allowing you to enjoy your savory treat while soaking up some San Diego sunshine. It's like having a mini vacation within your lunch break!

What truly impressed me were the great deals they had on offer. Despite being one of the best spots for lobster rolls in town, Marion's Fish Market & Restaurant manages to keep their prices affordable without compromising on quality.

In conclusion, if you're looking for an amazing lobster roll experience in San Diego, look no further than Marion's Fish Market & Restaurant. Their quick service, large portions, outdoor seating, and mouthwatering food make it a top contender for the title of best lobster roll in town. Trust me when I say that this place will leave you hooked!

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King's Fish House

Highlights
Fantastic dining experience
Excellent food and drinks
Great service
Kid-friendly atmosphere
Reasonable noise level

Walking into King's Fish House, I was immediately struck by the fantastic dining experience that awaited me. The upscale yet inviting atmosphere set the stage for a truly memorable meal.

Now, let's talk about the star of the show – the lobster roll. Oh boy, this was no ordinary lobster roll. It was a culinary masterpiece that left me speechless. The combination of succulent lobster meat nestled in a perfectly toasted bun was pure bliss. Each bite was an explosion of flavors, with hints of buttery goodness and a touch of lemon zest that elevated it to new heights.

The attention to detail and quality ingredients were evident in every aspect of this dish. The lobster meat was so tender, it practically melted in my mouth, while the accompanying sauce added just the right amount of creaminess without overpowering the delicate flavor.

But it wasn't just about the lobster roll at King's Fish House; everything else on their menu was equally impressive. From their fresh seafood options to their delectable cocktails, each item showcased their commitment to excellence.

I must also commend the excellent service provided by the knowledgeable and friendly staff. They were attentive without being intrusive, ensuring that my dining experience was nothing short of exceptional.

What impressed me even more was how kid-friendly King's Fish House is. It can be a challenge finding a place where both adults and children can enjoy themselves, but here they catered to all ages with a smile.

Additionally, I appreciated that despite being busy, there was a reasonable noise level, allowing for enjoyable conversation without having to shout across the table.

In conclusion, if you're on a quest for San Diego's best lobster roll (and who isn't?), look no further than King's Fish House. This gem offers not only an unforgettable culinary journey but also an overall experience that will leave you planning your next visit before you've even finished your meal.

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Blue Water Seafood Market & Grill

Highlights
Fresh seafood
Wide variety of options
Attentive staff
Cozy ambiance

Blue Water Seafood Market & Grill is a gem of a seafood spot nestled in the heart of San Diego. As I walked in, the fresh aroma of the ocean greeted me, instantly making my taste buds tingle with anticipation.

The first thing that caught my eye was the wide variety of options on the menu. From classic lobster rolls to innovative twists like spicy sriracha or tangy lemon herb, there was something for every seafood lover's palate. The sheer number of choices made it difficult to decide, but I knew I was in good hands.

The staff at Blue Water Seafood Market & Grill were incredibly attentive and knowledgeable. They took their time to explain each option and even recommended their personal favorites. Their passion for seafood shone through as they shared interesting tidbits about the sourcing and preparation process.

When my lobster roll arrived, it was a work of art. The succulent lobster meat was perfectly cooked and delicately seasoned, allowing its natural flavors to shine through. Nestled in a toasted buttery bun and accompanied by a side of crispy fries, it was heaven on a plate.

What truly set Blue Water Seafood Market & Grill apart was its cozy ambiance. With nautical-themed decor and soft lighting, it felt like stepping into a charming seaside shack without leaving San Diego. It created an atmosphere that enhanced the dining experience and made me feel like I was on a coastal getaway.

In conclusion, if you're searching for the best lobster roll in San Diego, look no further than Blue Water Seafood Market & Grill. With their fresh seafood selection, wide variety of options, attentive staff, and cozy ambiance, they have truly mastered the art of crafting an exceptional lobster roll that will leave you craving more!

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Point Loma Seafoods

Highlights
Clam chowder
Fresh seafood
Delicious
Exotic sandwich
Beautiful views

From the moment I stepped into Point Loma Seafoods, I was greeted by the tantalizing aroma of fresh seafood. This place is a hidden gem for lobster roll enthusiasts like myself.

Before diving into their exotic sandwich, I decided to start with their famous clam chowder. Oh boy! It was like a warm and creamy hug for my taste buds. Each spoonful was bursting with flavors that danced on my palate, making me crave more.

Now, let's talk about their lobster roll. Delicious doesn't even begin to describe it. The tender chunks of succulent lobster were perfectly complemented by a light dressing that brought out the natural sweetness of the meat. The roll itself was soft and buttery, adding another layer of indulgence to each bite.

As I savored each mouthwatering morsel, I couldn't help but admire the beautiful views from the outdoor seating area. It's like enjoying a lobster roll in paradise!

Trust me when I say that Point Loma Seafoods is not your average seafood joint. Their attention to detail and commitment to sourcing the freshest ingredients sets them apart from the rest.

So if you're looking for an unforgettable lobster roll experience in San Diego, look no further than Point Loma Seafoods. Just be prepared for a taste bud extravaganza that will leave you craving more!

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Gaslamp Fish House

Highlights
Friendly staff
Unique main entrées
Macadamia calamari
Fish n' chips
Delicious food

Stepping into Gaslamp Fish House, I was immediately greeted by the warm smiles of the friendly staff. Their enthusiasm for their unique main entrées was contagious, and I couldn't wait to dive into my lobster roll adventure.

Now, let's talk about the food. The menu at Gaslamp Fish House is a seafood lover's dream come true. While my primary focus was on finding the best lobster roll in San Diego, I couldn't resist trying some of their other offerings. The macadamia calamari was a delightful surprise. The tender calamari coated in crunchy macadamia nuts provided a perfect blend of textures and flavors.

But let's get back to the star of the show – the lobster roll. Bursting with chunks of succulent lobster meat, nestled in a perfectly toasted bun, this creation was a masterpiece. Each bite transported me to seafood heaven, where fresh ocean flavors danced on my taste buds.

While I usually associate seafood joints with traditional fare like fish n' chips, Gaslamp Fish House proved that they are masters of all things delicious. Whether you're a seafood aficionado or just looking for an extraordinary dining experience, this place won't disappoint.

So there you have it folks - Gaslamp Fish House earns its spot as one of San Diego's top contenders for the best lobster roll crown. Trust me when I say that once you sink your teeth into their delectable creation, you'll understand why it stands out among its peers.

In conclusion, if you're seeking an unforgettable lobster roll experience in San Diego, make your way to Gaslamp Fish House and prepare yourself for an explosion of flavor that will leave you craving more.

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Lobster West Coronado

Highlights
Phenomenal rolls
Delicious coleslaw
Outstanding service
Tasty bread roll
Great lobster bisque

From the moment I walked into Lobster West Coronado, I knew I was in for a treat. The aroma of freshly cooked lobster wafted through the air, and my taste buds were already tingling with anticipation.

The lobster roll itself was nothing short of phenomenal. The succulent pieces of lobster were perfectly cooked and generously piled onto a soft, buttery roll. Each bite was a harmonious blend of sweet and savory flavors that danced on my palate.

But let's not forget about the coleslaw. Now, coleslaw may not be the star of the show, but this one definitely deserves its own standing ovation. It was crisp, refreshing, and had just the right amount of tanginess to balance out the richness of the lobster.

What truly sets Lobster West Coronado apart is their outstanding service. The staff greeted me with warm smiles and expertly answered all my questions about their menu. They genuinely seemed to care about ensuring my dining experience was top-notch.

And let's not overlook the bread roll. Oh boy! It was so tasty and fresh that it could have easily stolen the spotlight if it weren't for the luscious lobster stealing all my attention.

To round off my meal, I couldn't resist trying their lobster bisque. And boy oh boy, did it deliver! Creamy, velvety smooth, with robust flavors that left me wanting more.

In conclusion, Lobster West Coronado exceeded all expectations with their phenomenal rolls, delicious coleslaw, outstanding service, tasty bread roll, and great lobster bisque. If you're looking for a lobster roll experience that will make your taste buds do cartwheels of joy, look no further than Lobster West Coronado!

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Blue Water Seafood Ocean Beach

Highlights
Fresh, large pieces of fish
Good service
Great value for the price
Tasty drinks
Top-notch shrimp tacos

From the moment I walked through the door, I knew I was in for a treat. The scent of fresh seafood wafted through the air, making my mouth water in anticipation. As I perused the menu, my eyes were drawn to their famous lobster roll.

The first thing that struck me about Blue Water Seafood Ocean Beach was the size of their lobster roll. It was like a work of art, with large, succulent pieces of lobster spilling out from a buttery toasted bun. Each bite was an explosion of flavor, as the sweet and tender lobster meat melted in my mouth. The chefs here really know how to handle their lobsters!

Not only was the lobster roll exceptional, but the service at Blue Water Seafood Ocean Beach was also top-notch. The staff were attentive and friendly, ensuring that my dining experience was nothing short of excellent.

And let's not forget about value for money! Despite offering high-quality seafood, Blue Water Seafood Ocean Beach manages to keep their prices reasonable. It's refreshing to find a place where you can indulge in a delicious lobster roll without breaking the bank.

To accompany my meal, I ordered one of their tasty drinks – a perfect complement to the flavors of the lobster roll. And if you're not in the mood for a lobster roll (although I can't imagine why), do try their shrimp tacos – they are simply divine!

In conclusion, if you're on a quest for the best lobster roll in San Diego, look no further than Blue Water Seafood Ocean Beach. With its fresh ingredients, excellent service, reasonable prices, and mouthwatering dishes like the lobster roll and shrimp tacos, this place truly stands out among its competitors.

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Wicked Maine Lobster

Highlights
Delicious lobster
Great service
Tasty pineapple slaw
Friendly and patient staff

Upon entering the restaurant, I couldn't help but notice the delightful aroma of freshly cooked lobster lingering in the air. My taste buds were already dancing with anticipation.

The service at Wicked Maine Lobster was nothing short of exceptional. The staff greeted me with warm smiles and their knowledge about lobsters was truly impressive. They patiently answered all of my questions, which is no small feat considering I had a lot of them!

Now let's talk about the star of the show – the lobster roll itself. Oh boy, was it a masterpiece! The succulent chunks of delicious lobster were nestled within a perfectly toasted buttery bun. Each bite was like a symphony of flavors, with the sweet and tender lobster stealing the spotlight.

To complement this seafood delight, Wicked Maine Lobster offers a side of tasty pineapple slaw. The tangy sweetness of the slaw provided a refreshing contrast to the richness of the lobster. It's safe to say that this combination was a match made in lobster heaven.

Throughout my visit, I couldn't help but appreciate how friendly and attentive the staff were. They made sure that every aspect of my dining experience was top-notch.

If you're on a quest for an extraordinary lobster roll in San Diego, look no further than Wicked Maine Lobster. Their dedication to quality ingredients and their commitment to customer satisfaction make them stand out from the crowd. So go ahead and indulge in some wickedly delicious seafood – you won't be disappointed!

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Tom Ham's Lighthouse

Highlights
Great bay views
Wonderful service
Delicious food
Spectacular views
Fun boat races

Upon entering Tom Ham's Lighthouse, I was immediately captivated by the great bay views. There's something about enjoying a lobster roll while gazing out at the shimmering waters that truly enhances the dining experience. The staff greeted me with warm smiles and provided wonderful service throughout my visit.

Now, let's talk about the star of the show: the lobster roll. With each bite, I could taste the freshness of the succulent lobster meat, which was perfectly cooked and bursting with flavor. The roll itself was toasted to perfection, adding a delightful crunch to each mouthwatering bite.

But wait, there's more! As if the delicious food wasn't enough, Tom Ham's Lighthouse offers spectacular views that make you feel like you're sailing on cloud nine. It's almost as if they've perfected the art of serving lobster rolls amidst boat races - now that’s dedication!

The combination of flavors and textures in their lobster roll is simply divine. Each ingredient complemented one another seamlessly, resulting in a harmonious explosion of taste in my mouth. This culinary masterpiece has earned its place among San Diego’s finest.

In conclusion, Tom Ham's Lighthouse is an absolute gem for lobster enthusiasts like myself. From the breathtaking bay views to the friendly service and delectable food – it truly checks all the boxes for an unforgettable dining experience. So grab your captain’s hat and set sail for this seafood haven; your taste buds will thank you!

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Top of the Market - San Diego

Highlights
Great experience
Delicious seafood
Stunning sunset view
Excellent service
Classic and charming atmosphere

Let me start by saying that my visit to Top of the Market was nothing short of a great experience. From the moment I walked in, I knew I was in for a treat.

Now, let's talk about the star of the show – their lobster roll. Oh boy, it was a thing of beauty! The lobster meat was deliciously tender and perfectly cooked, with just the right amount of seasoning. The roll itself was soft and buttery, providing the perfect vessel for this seafood masterpiece.

But what really set this place apart was the breathtaking view. As I enjoyed my lobster roll, I couldn't help but be captivated by the stunning sunset view over San Diego Bay. It truly added an extra layer of magic to an already unforgettable dining experience.

I also have to give credit where credit is due: the service at Top of the Market was top-notch. The staff went above and beyond to make sure every customer had an exceptional time. From providing helpful recommendations to ensuring our glasses were never empty, they truly exceeded expectations.

Moreover, the classic and charming atmosphere of Top of the Market added a touch of elegance to the whole affair. It felt like stepping back in time while indulging in some seriously delicious seafood.

In conclusion, if you're on a quest for the best lobster roll in San Diego, look no further than Top of the Market - San Diego. With its great food, stunning views, excellent service, and classic atmosphere, this place has everything you need to satisfy your cravings and make lasting memories.

Pete’s Seafood and Sandwich

Highlights
Delicious Fish and Chips
Huge portions
10/10 Atmosphere
Authentic New England Lobster Rolls
Flavorful fried clam plate

Let me start by saying, wow. Pete's Seafood and Sandwich truly knows how to deliver when it comes to lobster rolls. This place is a hidden gem in the heart of San Diego, bringing a taste of authentic New England flavors to the West Coast.

Upon entering Pete's, I was immediately struck by the delightful aroma of freshly fried seafood. The atmosphere, a perfect blend of coastal charm and casual elegance, earned a resounding 10/10 from me. It felt like stepping into a seaside shack on Cape Cod, minus the chilly Atlantic breeze.

Now let's talk about their lobster rolls. Oh my goodness! The moment that plate arrived at my table, I knew I was in for something special. The roll itself was lightly toasted to perfection, creating an ideal vessel for the succulent chunks of tender lobster meat. Each bite was a symphony of flavors, with just the right amount of mayo and a hint of lemon zest that enhanced the natural sweetness of the lobster.

But wait, there's more! Pete's Seafood and Sandwich also offers an array of other delectable dishes. Their fish and chips were absolutely divine – crispy golden batter enveloping flaky white fish that practically melted in my mouth. And let me tell you about their fried clam plate – it was like finding buried treasure in every bite!

What truly impressed me about Pete's was not only the quality but also the quantity. These guys don't skimp on portions! You'll leave feeling happily satisfied without breaking the bank.

In conclusion, if you're on a quest for the best lobster roll in San Diego, look no further than Pete’s Seafood and Sandwich. With its delicious offerings, generous portions, and authentic New England flavors, this place is an absolute winner. So go ahead and indulge yourself – your taste buds will thank you later!