Food & Drink

Claw-some Eats: 12 Must-Try Lobster Roll Spots in San Diego

San Diego, California is known for its beautiful beaches, stunning sunsets, and delicious seafood. One dish that locals and tourists alike can't get enough of is the lobster roll.

This classic New England dish has made its way to the West Coast, and San Diego has some of the best lobster rolls around.

A traditional lobster roll is made with a split-top bun filled with lobster meat, typically mixed with mayonnaise, celery, and other seasonings.

However, San Diego has put its own spin on this classic dish, offering variations that range from spicy to sweet and savory.

Whether you prefer your lobster roll served hot or cold, with butter or mayonnaise, San Diego has plenty of options. From food trucks to upscale restaurants, there's a lobster roll for every taste and budget.

So, whether you're a seafood aficionado or just looking to try something new, get ready to indulge in the best lobster rolls that San Diego has to offer.

1. Blue Water Seafood Market & Grill

Blue Water Seafood Market & Grill
3667 India St, San Diego, CA 92103 (Google Maps)

Blue Water Seafood Market & Grill is a must-visit for seafood lovers. Their lobster roll is a standout dish, with generous portions of succulent lobster meat on a buttery roll.

The seafood is always fresh and well-prepared, making for a delicious meal every time.

The restaurant also offers a variety of other seafood dishes, including fish tacos and clam chowder, all of which are worth trying.

The casual atmosphere and friendly staff make for a pleasant dining experience. Don't miss out on this gem of a restaurant.

2. Mitch's Seafood

Mitch's Seafood
1403 Scott St, San Diego, CA 92106 (Google Maps)

Mitch's Seafood is a seafood restaurant that offers a mouthwatering lobster roll. The restaurant is situated on the marina and provides stunning bay views.

The lobster roll is made with fresh, locally caught lobster meat and is served on a toasted bun. The dish is simply delicious and is a must-try for seafood lovers.

The restaurant is casual, with a laid-back ambiance, and the service is prompt. The lobster roll is reasonably priced, making it a great value for money.

If you're in the mood for some excellent seafood in a casual setting, head to Mitch's Seafood for their tasty lobster roll.

3. Tom Ham's Lighthouse

Tom Ham's Lighthouse
2150 Harbor Island Dr, San Diego, CA 92101 (Google Maps)

Tom Ham's Lighthouse is a seafood restaurant with epic views of the bay and skyline.

The menu is seafood-driven, and the lobster roll is a must-try. The dish is served with hot butter, making it even more delicious.

The service is excellent, and the atmosphere is perfect for a date or a business lunch.

The prices are reasonable, considering the location and quality of food. Highly recommended for seafood lovers.

4. Ironside Fish & Oyster

Ironside Fish & Oyster
1654 India St, San Diego, CA 92101 (Google Maps)

Ironside Fish & Oyster is a seafood restaurant that offers an array of fresh catches. They make all their bread on-site, including the roll for their lobster roll, which is delicious.

The atmosphere is quirky with nautical design accents, and the service is excellent.

The menu changes daily based on what's caught locally, ensuring the seafood is always fresh.

The crispy sweet potatoes are a must-try, and their oysters are fresh and delicious. It's a great spot for seafood lovers looking for a unique dining experience.

5. Pete's Seafood and Sandwich

Pete's Seafood And Sandwich
3382 30th St, San Diego, CA 92104 (Google Maps)

Pete's Seafood and Sandwich is a must-visit if you're a fan of authentic New England-style lobster rolls.

The restaurant offers indoor and outdoor seating and prepares the rolls with either mayonnaise or melted butter, catering to different tastes.

The portions are generous and the lobster is fresh and succulent. The fries are also a hit with customers.

The staff is friendly and accommodating, making for a pleasant dining experience. If you're in the mood for seafood, this is the place to go.

6. Bay Park Fish Company

Bay Park Fish Company
4121 Ashton St, San Diego, CA 92110 (Google Maps)

Bay Park Fish Company is a must-visit place for anyone looking for a delicious lobster roll.

The restaurant offers a variety of seafood dishes that are fresh and flavorful.

The atmosphere is welcoming, and the staff is friendly and attentive. The prices are reasonable, and the portions are generous.

If you're a seafood lover, you won't be disappointed with the options available at Bay Park Fish Company.

7. JRDN Restaurant

Jrdn Restaurant
723 Felspar St, San Diego, CA 92109 (Google Maps)

JRDN Restaurant is a high-end restaurant with a beautiful view of the beach. The menu is a bit limited, but the dishes are all great choices.

The lobster roll is a standout item on the menu and is definitely worth trying.

The service is top-notch, and the staff is knowledgeable and courteous.

While the pricing is a bit on the high side, the overall experience is worth it for the delicious food and stunning views.

8. Pacific Catch WestCoast Fish House

Pacific Catch Westcoast Fish House
4575 La Jolla Village Dr Suite 1160, San Diego, CA 92122 (Google Maps)

Looking for a seafood restaurant that serves a delicious lobster roll and more in a beautiful setting with indoor and outdoor dining options, Pacific Catch WestCoast Fish House is worth checking out.

Their menu is simple yet not boring, and they offer a good happy hour with food and drink specials.

The service is attentive and knowledgeable, and the food is served fast and hot off the grill.

Don't forget to try their jala-pina margarita, guava margarita, or caramelized pina colada – they're all delicious.

9. Humphreys Restaurant

Humphreys Restaurant
2241 Shelter Island Dr, San Diego, CA 92106 (Google Maps)

Looking for a place to get your lobster roll fix in a beautiful setting with great views of the marina and live music to boot?

Humphreys Restaurant is your spot.

Their lobster roll is a standout, with fresh chunks of lobster meat piled high on a buttery, toasted roll.

The accompanying fries are crispy and golden, the perfect complement to the rich lobster flavor.

The service is top-notch and the atmosphere is lively and fun. Don't miss out on this seafood gem!

10. Sally's Fish House & Bar

Sally's Fish House & Bar
1 Market Pl, San Diego, CA 92101 (Google Maps)

Sally's Fish House & Bar is a seafood restaurant that serves a fantastic lobster roll. The roll is made with fresh ingredients and tastes delicious.

The staff is super friendly and attentive. The location is great, right off the water, and the ambiance is lively and vibrant.

The service is quick and attentive without being overbearing. Sally's is a great place to go for a group meal or dinner party.

The food is high quality and the portions are adequate. Sally's Fish House & Bar is highly recommended for anyone looking for a great lobster roll.

11. King's Fish House

King's Fish House
825 Camino De La Reina, San Diego, CA 92108 (Google Maps)

King's Fish House is a great place to enjoy a delicious lobster roll. Their Connecticut style lobster roll is perfect and definitely worth trying.

The restaurant also offers a variety of other seafood options, including sushi and fresh lobsters.

The staff is knowledgeable and friendly, making the dining experience enjoyable. The atmosphere is relaxed and family-friendly, making it a great spot for a casual meal.

With its great service and tasty seafood, King's Fish House is definitely worth a visit.

12. The Fish Market – San Diego

The Fish Market - San Diego
750 N Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101 (Google Maps)

The Fish Market in San Diego is a seafood lover's paradise with a variety of dishes to choose from.

The lobster roll is a must-try and is packed with fresh, succulent lobster meat.

The ambiance is perfect with a beautiful view of the water. The staff is friendly and attentive, making the dining experience enjoyable.

The Fish Market is a great place to grab a meal and enjoy the scenic views of San Diego.