Lobster Roll

Get to Know the Lobster Roll A Classic Dish from New England, USA

 

A Lobster Roll is a type of sandwich that originated in the New England region of the United States. Its main ingredient is cooked lobster meat, typically mixed with mayonnaise and served in a split-top hot dog bun.

The origins of the Lobster Roll are believed to date back to the early 20th century in New England, an area known for its abundance of lobsters. At that time, lobster was not considered a luxury food as it is today. In fact, it was once viewed as a low-cost option for laborers or even prison food, due to its plentiful supply and affordability.

Back then, fishermen and workers in seafood processing factories often used leftover lobster meat to make simple meals for themselves. Sometimes, the lobster was mixed with mayonnaise or melted butter and placed in whatever bread was available, making it easy to carry and eat on the go. Many believe this humble beginning marked the birth of the modern Lobster Roll.

The first known appearance of the Lobster Roll in its more recognizable form was around 1927 in Connecticut, New England, at a restaurant called Perrys. According to local lore, a regular customer wanted a lobster dish that could be eaten conveniently while traveling. The chef responded by placing lobster meat mixed with mayonnaise into a split-top hot dog bunand the Lobster Roll as we know it was born.

In its early days, the Lobster Roll wasnt particularly fancy or complex. However, thanks to the freshness of the lobster and the ease of eating it on the go, it quickly became a summertime favorite among locals, especially along the coast.

As time went on, the Lobster Roll began to spread to other towns and states throughout New England. Each area adapted the recipe to reflect its own culinary style. Some versions use only a small amount of mayonnaise to let the natural sweetness of the lobster shine, while others add ingredients like celery, shallots, or lemon juice to enhance the flavor and freshness.

By the mid to late 20th century, the price of lobster had risen significantly, elevating the Lobster Roll from a working-class meal to a high-end seafood delicacy. It soon became a staple in upscale restaurants across the U.S. and eventually gained popularity on the global stage.

Today, the Lobster Roll is no longer limited to New England. It can now be found in top-tier seafood restaurants around the world, with each establishment adding its own creative twistbe it through the choice of specialty bread, unique toppings, or refined presentation that elevates the dish visually and gastronomically.