9 Lobster Rolls in San Diego That Rival the East Coast - Locale Magazine
What kind of lobster are you—rock lobster, Maine lobster or California spiny lobster? There's probably an online quiz to find out, or you could do it the fun way—eating your way to the answer. Even the finest connoisseurs will agree: tasting the ocean's most sought-after dish is best done wrapped in a freshly baked bun. We're running through the best places in San Diego that prove it. A fisherman's paradise at its core, this city's specialty is seafood, and the restaurants that serve these crustaceans will have enthusiasts on cloud nine. No need to butter us up—we're ready to dive into the divine with these nine amazing lobster rolls in San Diego.
Credit: Mary Carol Fitzgerald
Credit: Mary Carol Fitzgerald
Credit: Mary Carol Fitzgerald
Credit: Mary Carol Fitzgerald
Cozy up at the coastal-chic Cody's, where you can certainly cure your seafood cravings. Best known for their buzz-worthy brunch and lunch options, this breezy restaurant is a San Diego must-visit, whether you become a seasoned regular or a first-time visitor. Not only are the dishes to die for, but the coastal ambiance and ocean-view patio give Cody's the iconic SoCal feel that every oceanfront establishment should! Situated above La Jolla Cove, you'll enjoy ocean views and brunch options from any seat, along with boozy cocktails, beer, wine and coffee selections.
If you're in the mood for lunch, the lobster roll is a foodie fantasy come true: 7 oz. of Maine lobster topped with lemon aioli, stuffed in a buttered and griddled brioche roll from the beloved Bread & Cie bakery in Hillcrest. Served with a side of housemade coleslaw and hand-cut french fries, this roll is nothing short of spectacular. It's only fitting that a seaside eatery houses the finest seafood—sea for yourself why they're constantly earning rave reviews among locals for 25 years!
Location: La Jolla
There's something magical about a menu that gives you creative license, and we can't imagine a more satisfying way than with variations on specialty seafood rolls. At Lobster West, the first step is to choose a roll—think classic lobster, lobster grilled cheese or an epic double meat affair. The next step is to add sides like baked beans or coleslaw, then, per order of the chef, the final step is to eat, drink and repeat. For those who can't decide which roll to choose, go for the Junior Roll Samplers, which encourage dueling-claw cameos from lobster, crab and more.
Locations: Coronado, Encinitas, La Jolla
Credit: Lyudmila Zotova
Credit: Lyudmila Zotova
If we're taking sides, it's always going to be Ironside. Introduced to Little Italy's utopia of restaurants in 2014, Ironside was created in the spirit of what the area was built on: the fishing industry. They quickly became the neighborhood go-to for seafood, most known and loved for their $1 oyster happy hour. We, of course, suggest leaning into their lobster roll. It's a carefully crafted combination of lobster covered in brown butter mayo, topped with crispy shallots and chives. Reserve a table or pop in any time to get the finest, freshest seafood at their expansive raw bar, chef's table and bakery.
Location: Little Italy
11/16
Credit: Wicked Maine Lobster
Credit: Wicked Maine Lobster
Credit: Wicked Maine Lobster
Credit: Wicked Maine Lobster
