Summertime in New England and lobster rolls go together like peanut butter and jelly. While Nantucket best-known for its clams and scallops, there are many restaurants serving up fantastic lobster, just like our friendly neighbors up in Maine. Whether you want lobster straight from the fish market or are looking for something more upscale, there’re plenty of options here. The hardest part is trying them all! 

When it’s time to treat yourself, head out for a lobster roll at one of our favorite spots. There’s no better way to celebrate island summer days. 

167 Raw

The 167 roll is the perfect update to your fish market classic. Their buttery brioche, light use of mayo, and zap of lemon make this one a classic. 

Cru

Cru’s breezy waterfront atmosphere comes alive in their refined roll. Hot or cold, Cru’s roll is made with finesse and paired with handmade fries. It’s the perfect companion for a stroll out onto the docks. 

Millie’s

Millie’s keeps their roll as the star of the show — 6 ounces of fresh meat are piled high with just enough mayo to keep it all together. Take it out to the beach at sunset for the full experience. 

Queequeg’s

Queequeg’s, named after the Moby Dick character, is a longstanding Nantucket institution. Though the restaurant itself is small and quaint, the lobster roll is anything but. Don’t leave without a bowl of their famous clam chowder too! 

Sayle’s Seafood

If you like your lobstah roll without the “r”, Sayle’s is the place for you. This nondescript local’s favorite is dedicated to regional seafood–and it shows in the generous pile of claw and tail on their roll. As with all of the island’s fish markets, don’t ask if it’s fresh!

Something Natural

Something Natural’s approach to lobster is in sandwich form. Served on their famous, fresh-baked bread, this lobster salad sandwich is to die for. It might even make you question your allegiance to the traditional hot dog roll. 

Straight Wharf

Just when you thought a lobster roll couldn’t get any better, Straight Wharf added brown butter. Straight Wharf presents the most elevated roll on our list, but still carries all the classic notes. Their hand-cut kettle chips are just icing on the cake. 

The Nantucket Lobster Trap

The name here says it all. The Lobster Trap is your classic, no frills New England seafood shack. Rather than pick a side in the old hot vs. cold lobster roll debate, they offer both options to prove that (sometimes) you can have it all.

Walter’s Deli 

If you’re heading to the ferry and suddenly realize you never crossed “Lobster Roll” off your Nantucket bucket list, Walter’s is the place for you. The lobster salad is piled high with lettuce and isn’t afraid of a little mayo.