Lobster West

Lobster West served up fresh seafood with great flavor. We tried the lobster, crab, and shrimp roll sampler—each was fresh, and the rolls were perfectly toasted and buttered. A solid spot for well-executed seafood rolls, worth a visit for quality shellfish.

Delicious food! And easy to park and eat. Only lower part may be the beans but the reason I went was for the rolls and they were incredible and so was the clam chowder

Was excited to try the lobster rolls here, but unfortunately, they were a major letdown. First off, we paid a lot for very small rolls that left us confused and a little horrified. The meat on its own was tender with nice flavor, but the bread had an overwhelmingly bitter taste that literally gave me shivers (not in a good way), and I couldn’t shake the feeling that something wasn’t right. No staff around to check in or help, which didn’t exactly inspire confidence. my husband (bless him) suggested maybe it was just a “cleaner” taste from the grill… and now that unsettling theory is stuck in my head. Not the experience we were hoping for.

I recently had the pleasure of dining at Lobster West, and I was absolutely blown away by the experience. The lobster rolls here are simply phenomenal—fresh, delicious, and packed with generous chunks of lobster. Each bite was a delightful blend of perfectly seasoned lobster meat and a buttery, toasted roll that made for an unforgettable meal. The quality and freshness of the lobster were evident in every bite. It's clear that Lobster West takes great care in sourcing and preparing their ingredients to ensure the highest quality. The lobster rolls are not only delicious but also offer great value, given the generous portion sizes. The ambiance is casual and inviting, making it a perfect spot for a quick bite or a relaxed meal. The staff were friendly, efficient, and genuinely passionate about their food, which added to the overall positive experience. Whether you're a local or just visiting, Lobster West is a must-visit for any seafood lover. I can't recommend it highly enough and will definitely be returning soon! Gluten free rolls available, if not, you can order without the roll.

Absolutely amazing. Best lobster place, around. The plates are small but very filling. This is my grandma's favorite place, as well. I highly recommend to anyone, who loves lobster. Also, get the sauce. It's worth it.

It was something new, and me and my boyfriend enjoyed it. The bread was amAzing. It was soft but toasted just right and was somehow firm enough to hold the lobster and crab. Lemon was a nice add-on. It all felt really light but fulfilling. I'd just say it was quite pricey, even with the cheapest option for the rolls. The atmosphere was surprisingly calm and quiet. We thought it'd be a little more upbeat, but it felt like a place to study at. All in all, it felt like it was missing something--maybe some more upbeat or louder music--but it was a nice new experience. Would like to try again.

Every time I’m in town, this is my must-stop spot Their lobster rolls perfectly buttered, generously filled with meat and melts in the mouth Damn I’m so hungry right now

This location seats on a medium business plaza and busy street. The parking is not bad if you are willing to park in further part of the lot. Very limited inside seats. There are some outdoor seats. The service was not that great at the time we were there. It was slow to order but the food came out in a reasonable manner. This is not a handicap friendly since there is no space for wheelchair access.

You had me at lobster! Just as delicious as I remember it! This place is so good and warm lobster roll on a golden toasted buttery roll always hits the spot. They have a private parking lot so you aren't searching for parking.

We went to Lobster West after seeing it featured on a local telecast. You place your order and pay at the podium at the front of the restaurant, then sit wherever you like. You also bus your own table after you are finished eating. The restaurant is small, with a laid back atmosphere and upbeat music. The food overall was good - we ordered the Maine event (full lobster, crab, and shrimp rolls). The star of the show was definitely the bread, which was nicely toasted and buttery. The rolls are served Maine-style with cold lobster that is seasoned well. The lobster bisque, however, was a bit bland and thin. There is plenty of parking in the lot surrounding the restaurant. A bit of a quirk is that the restroom is located at the back of the restaurant and requires you to walk around the building for access. All in all, Lobster West was a nice stop for a quick eat.

My fiance and I stopped here while we were walking the main street of ensenada's. I haven't been here in a few years, and it was at the Coronado location. it's a fairly small inside spot, so we sat outside also because they're not dog friendly inside, and we had our dog with us. I didn't recall it being so pricey, I paid $106 for two boss lobsters in a bisque. I felt overpriced for the lack of ambiance and casual dining service, which receipts facing the parking lot. the quality of the lobster was good, but the flavor was very subpar. the bread was also significantly disappointing, I feel like the bread of a lobster roll makes or breaks the overall dish, and unfortunately, it tasted old stale and lacked tlc. the service is really nice. unfortunately, the rest of my experience was not good. I thank you got quality Lobster but the flavors are not there, the place locks Ambiance or decent environment, especially for a meal that's over $100 for two people.

I love lobster but this place in Encinitas is not a great representation of what lobster is all about. I did pay $9.60 for 1.2 oz and it was chalky and flavorless.

#ThankYou for another year of great lobster rolls! Always a treat coming here for take-away and then picnicking at Moon Light Beach.

Best lobster and crab spot in socal hands down. Great portions, and quality for the price.

Clam chowder was creamy and meaty (clams) but not heavy, great pair with lobster roll or crab roll.

Had a craving for crab cakes. And I'm talking real crab cakes heree-- I don't want to be paying for bread crumbs and cakey coatings. I want CRAB!! This spot didn't disappoint. The crab was naturally sweet and the seasons were light. I like it with the lemon juice on top, but I think they need to give more tartar sauce. The mixed lettuce I really didn't care for. I'm not sure why it came with a salad, I think another crab cake would have been nice. This lettuce wasn't even the good lettuce -- it was spikey and bitter. (I might be born in the year of the rabbit, but I am not a rabbit!). There was NO dressing on it, what??? We had to order at the front of the establishment, there were already utensils and napkins on the table. It was a clean place, there were little signs reminding you that you had to bus your table. So this is a pretty casual place. They also have lobster rolls which my aunt said were delicious and graciously filled. The bread was nicely toasted and buttered. The lobster was freshly taken from the shells. She also had the clam chowder and while she couldn't finish it...she added the fallen lobster bits from her roll to the chowder. Pop. Mind blown! This is a good spot for lunch, recommend it!

The lobster was so fresh and tasty. It was so good that is was truly butter in your mouth. Got the coleslaw and I enjoyed it, bit too much mayo for many, but excellent for me. And the clam chowder was so thick you could walk on it (yes it aaa probably 2m calories- but sooooo good)

Holy smokes! Best classic lobster roll (no mayo) I've had! Came back here twice in three days. Three days, two people, five lobster rolls (four classic and one jumbo). Delicious. Compliments to the chef HOLY MOLY MAMA MIA (I'm Italian from the east coast) Staff is awesome too

Came here for lunch on a Sunday, and there was no wait. You place the order then find a seat. I got the classic lobster roll with a scoop of clam chowder for the Yelp check in. It was supposed to be a free scoop, but it was just $4.50 off, so you just have to pay $0.5. The lobster roll was solid. I asked for it warm since that's my preference. They warned me that it would not be as tender if it was warmer so some pieces were a little chewier. The bread was nicely toasted and buttered.

The food was great! They give a good amount of seafood on each rolls. The rolls are soft on the inside but perfectly toasted and buttered. We also had lobster bisque. The flavor was good but on the thick side and just warm. They probably heat to serve and didn't heat it up enough. We were the only ones in the place and the server never came to check on us. We had to peek in the kitchen twice to talk to someone. The ambiance was ok. Just like any other order at the counter and take a number place. Go to the restroom ahead of time, or you'll need to walk all the way around the building to use one.

The lobster rolls at Lobster West are some of my favorite food I have had in all my time in SoCal. I've been coming here for 6 years, and it truly never disappoints! The lobster is so well-seasoned, the bread is buttery and delicious, and the lobster bisque makes the perfect dipping sauce for your roll (if that is something you are into). On a past visit, my boyfriend and I got the flight of rolls (1 crab, 1 shrimp, and 1 lobster) and the flight of soups and we had one of the best meals we've ever had together. The space is fairly casual, and the people working there are very friendly. Overall a 10/10 experience every time!

An amazing place to satisfy cravings for a good Lobster Roll is Lobster West. This very approachable casual stop has a friendly menu for lobster, crab, and shrimp. There is a sampler plate for the adventurous and a combo selection for the valued conscious. A Yelp check-in will also get you a delicious cup of chowder.

Succulent lobster rolls just a few blocks from the beach! The lobster rolls here are the real deal. As real as they can be for Cali that is. Shipped from the icy waters of Maine since Cali can't have it all and lobsters don't enjoy our warm waters. On my first visit years ago I chose the Connecticut style roll (half size) that came with slightly sweet & warm lobster meat, butter and spices on a perfectly toasted bun. Also ordered lobster bisque which was decadent & flavorful. I've been back many times and usually just get a lobster roll. Sizes vary from classic, to epic (double meat) and Boss (50% more meat). Very casual spot where you order at the counter. I so appreciate all the outdoor seating where you can enjoy your food with that cool ocean breeze. Did I mention there's plenty of FREE parking? In the plaza and on the street.

We originally found Lobster West at their Coronado location. We fell in love with the food there but have since tried a couple of other locations based on our travel plans. We decided to try the Encinitas location both in to SD and also on the way home. The food quality was on point. The classic lobster rolls were buttery delicious. The clam chowder was just as delicious as the rolls. Definitely a strong recommendation for anyone wanting that lobster roll experience. The parking here is definitely much easier compared to the La Jolla or Coronado locations.

We absolutely love Lobster West. Our first stop as soon as we're in the area! Today we ordered a Shrimp Roll, a Lobster Roll Boss, and a Crab Roll Boss. Fresh, light lunch and tasty as usual.

I was out running errands in Encinitas and I wanted something quick to eat. I remembered i had a $5 off coupon so I stopped here. I went to the stand in the front of the restaurant to order but was told I had to order online. The host asked what I wanted and proceeded to get my order started whilst I navigated the online order process. After a short wait I had my order. I don't eat lobster often but I get a craving every so often. The spot always fills that need. Buttered toast with chunks of lobster. So good. A bit pricy but less than some of the other places and lobster is expensive!! Definitely my go to place for lobster rolls

Disappointing is the most accurate description I can think of. A grilled cheese (soooo tiny), a 3 soup sampler was fine (lobster bisque, clam chowder & (something else). Shrimp roll ($16) was ok, and a bowl of clam chowder. Paper bowl. Plastic ware & napkins on the table. Place your order at the front door (why did we leave a tip?) it's a 'bus your own table'. There is no service. None. Food is delivered to the table. That was NOT a $50 dinner. Tiny portions. No service.

Superb lobster rolls! Visited during the lunch hour and service was still quick. Will return for sure.

Our first time at this location. Lobster west is consistently great food . Young man who took our order was friendly and the lobster rolls (Boss size). Were amazing!! I got the gluten free bun and mmmmm... That's all I needed for lunch. Hubby had the NE clam chowder and says he loves it Will come here again

Craving for a Lobster Roll and desiring to find a new establishment to fill my craving, I set my sights on Lobster West. Being in Encinitas, California it gave me the opportunity to take the Porsche out for a long drive on a Interstate 76 which is a great highway for dropping the top, and cruising under the sun! The drive was extremely slow and long due to a huge accident on the freeway leading to I76 which really put the pressure on intended prize at the end of the journey, and I was ready for a mouth watering Lobster Roll and a cold brew. Upon arriving I parked my vehicle and strolled over to Lobster West to discover it's a small establishment with indoor as well as outdoor seating and we were able to order and be seating immediately. I ordered the "Boss" Lobster Roll combo which comes with two sides of your choice ( Kettle chips, and Iced Tea) and my wife chose the Dueling Combo which consist of a small Lobster Roll and a small Crab Roll and two sides (Kettle chips, and Iced Tea). For the Yelp "Check-in" you will receive a complimentary bowl of crab,oyster lobster soup (smile). As for the taste and level of enjoyment I experienced while consuming my "Boss" Lobster Roll which was packed with fresh lobster; I would say that it was absolutely delicious, but a total shock to my taste buds when I realized the lobster was extremely chilled! It was a shock to my senses when I looked at the perfectly toasted roll and then took a bite to discover the protein was was freshly plucked from the Arctic Circle! I have had a lot of Lobster Rolls, with a side of fresh drawn butter, and they were all warm if not hot sandwiches with crisp fries. As for my rating; it is based on the cold presentation, and the absence of craft, draft beer to accompany my meal. Bottled beer is not fails in comparison to a crisp, cold pint paired with a delicious sandwich. Aside from these shortcomings, the meal was delicious! I will visit in the future but I will probably get my Lobster Roll to go, and place it in my air fryer (smile). Great customer service, relaxing casual atmosphere, and delicious seafood! Totally recommend.

Seriously good! This is a super tiny spot, with just about a few tables/chairs inside and outside. You walk up, make an order, and they give you a number. They will bring out your food to your table. We were in a rush, with a baby that was approaching bedtime, but Lobster West delivered. Service was decently speedy. We went for one shrimp roll and one lobster roll. Both were amazing! I knocked off a star because I wasn't as huge of a fan of their baked beans which were on the sweeter side, and the coleslaw was good but not outstanding. The rolls that the sandwiches were served on were perfectly buttery. I kind of wish the seafood on top was warm, but it was still good. Portion sizes were decent, but not on the larger side. Overall, very delicious fast-casual spot in the heart of downtown La Jolla if you are looking for a cozy seafood meal!

After oral surgery recently I had to eat soft foods for a few days and once I was able to have hot food, I was ready for soup. I'm obsessed with lobster bisque. At any restaurant I go to that has it on the menu, I have to order it. The lobster bisque is one of my favorites! It was so creamy and the flavor was delicious! They also serve it with a buttered roll! I could dip it in the soup to make it soft enough to eat. It was the perfect meal when my options were limited! This was a takeout order so not too sure about the space but I'm definitely going to give it a try when I can enjoy a lobster roll!

Order first and have a seat. They bring your delicious roll out to you. Good stuff with friendly folks with relaxed inside or outside seating.

Great spot located in the Encinitas Lumberyard. Very simple menu, it's not hard to make up your mind. Waitress very friendly and takes your order at the walk up podium at the entrance to the restaurant. It's a nice spot right on PCH to hang out and have some delicious lobster rolls. The buns were soft and crispy at the same time, the lobster was perfectly buttered and well seasoned. The BBQ beans were delicious, as was the cole slaw. You have your choice of various sides with whatever size roll you order (S,M,L). You also can get shrimp and crab rolls. Doesn't seem like you can go wrong here, they have all their ducks in a row for simple, quick, and delicious.

Came here on a Monday around noon and ordered food to go to eat at our campsite in Doheny. We got the Maine event, which consisted of their Lobster Roll, Crab Roll and Shrimp Roll. Each sandwich was cut in half, perfect for sharing and getting to try a bit of everything! My favorite of the three was of course the lobster roll, which was full of large chunks sweet fresh lobster meat. We also got a bowl of New England clam chowder, which was steaming hot and delicious. Tip: always check in on Yelp (which I forgot to, doh!) as they offer a free scoop of soup!

Rolls are still yummie but the price continues to climb. They put a "order desk" in the doorway where some dude can't take the orders, doesn't know if you've placed an order and certainly is super super late on getting your order....

Delicious! Fast no frills, very nice pleasant service. Ordered the Boss (medium) lobster roll with 2 sides. And the clam chowder. The lobster roll was very tasty by California standards. Lobster meat was decent quality and tasted fresh. The beans and cole slaw sides were good too, only $3.50 additional. We also really liked the clam chowder. Service was very nice and friendly, didn't wait long at all to get our food. Easy pleasant experience.

I will utter no critique of Lobster West's prices in this day and age: inflation, location and the main ingredient itself inevitably make the cost of a meal here more expensive than other spots along the 101. But the irony of this establishment comes in its lackluster signature dish itself: the lobster (and other assorted) rolls. The soups are actually quite good. The bisque and chowder are both first rate, with ample flavor and texture. The slaw and baked beans are great sides. But when it comes to the rolls? Frankly, they underwhelm. The meat is a bit thin on the ground unless you order extra or double portions. The accompanying spices might stand reconsideration. While perfectly edible, they did not generate enough enthusiasm with either my wife or I to make it part of our regular rotation of favorites. A small last point. I recognize this is a no-frills, beachy sort of spot, but the place really lacks any sort of ambiance. While the service was good and the staff friendly, this eatery looks like it was stuck in the early 00's. If you're going to charge premium prices, a remodel really is in order. OK place to go if the urge for East Coast seafood is too great to resist.

Amazing light, buttery, and flaky buns for the dense, cold lobster. The clam chowder is on the thicker side, but I can definitely enjoy this type of chowder.

Short one day trip to Encinitas and enjoyed for food here after 2hr drive from OC.. and yea we were HUNGRY and HANGRY..... To put all emotion aside. Ambiance: Space and table are little, so it can be crowded on a peak hour. And yea thanks to the traffic we got there at 1:30pm so we were able to find table (cray cray) Food: I ordered Nor's Easter which consisted of 3 half roll of lobster, shrimp and crab. The portion is good and meat is plenty for the price I think it is worth it. The meat is fresh and bread was grilled and tasty! Also Yelp had a check in for free small soup, the crab soup is good in taste but just fell a little short under lobster bisque and clam chowder. Will definitely visit next time when in town, Miles loves it!

CRUISING FOR CUISINE On a beautiful Friday - July 8th afternoon, we cruised down the sun-drenched Coast Highway 101 through Encinitas. The salty, warm sea breeze whisked us past a sign for Lobster Rolls. We hooked a U-turn and hopped in the cue for a delicious late afternoon meal. QUIET SPOT, GREAT PARKING Parking wraps around this deli-style eatery with ample seating inside and out. You are immediately greeted at the door with a menu, smile, and craft sodas/beers to pair with your order. The lobster rolls may pull you in, but the menu offers more. You get traditional sides with crab and shrimp roll options too. I tried the lobster roll and grilled crab melt. LOBSTER ROLL: COLOR, TASTE, AND TEXTURE WERE PERFECT! * Lightly toasted hot dog style bun, split down the middle, was soft and buttery in flavor. * Split top bun is STUFFED WITH BIG CHUNKS OF SUCCULENT LOBSTER CLAW MEAT! * The cold meat and warm bun collide in a taste-tacular experience worth repeating. The claw meat was fresh and flavor-filled! CRAB MELT: SURPRISINGLY THIN BUN, BUT QUITE FILLING * Flat, hot dog-length bun was soft and offered a mild flavor. * Ample AND fresh crabmeat ensured meat in every bite. * And a mild white cheese sealed in all the goodness Finally, I paired everything with a Blueberry Craft Soda that was smooth as silk going down. OVERALL ARNOLD SCHWARZENEGGER RATING: I'll Be Back!

Awesome little seafood spot in fabulous Encinitas. Lobster rolls are very good. Actually, everything was very good and the clam chowder was my favorite! Sorry Sebastian. Maybe next time. LOL Parking was not bad in the center, I guess it depends on the time of day. I arrived at 1130 am. Pretty small place but plenty of seating between inside and outside. Very well organized, order at the door, find a seat and they bring you the food. Customer service was great. Very friendly and helpful and food was prepared rather quickly and correctly. The food was good! Ordered: Lobster roll - Filled with lots of meat, not a ton of seasoning, buttered roll. Maybe the roll was a little thick but small issue and probably just my carb shaming. Lobster Bisque - Good. I have only had lobster bisque a few times so I am not a pro at what it should or can taste like. This was good. Tasted like lobster and thick and creamy. Clam Chowder - YUM. So much clam, thick and had a wonder flavor. This was my favorite part of the meal. I would maybe try a different roll or sides but will get the CC again for sure. Sides - Slaw - no thanks, dry and no flavor or sweetness or sourness or anything. Beans were pretty good. Nice baked beans nothing special and exactly what I expected when ordering. Overall this was a good lunch. The price wasn't too crazy. I went in expecting to pay some decent $$ for food here and it wasn't outrageous. For the quality and amount it was well priced. I will be back here to try the other rolls and more clam chowder!

Just the perfect amount of lobster to bread ratio in the classic! Service was meh! You order from a machine out front. They just bring you your food. There's a sign that says bus your own table. Wait what?!? And you want a tip? Come on! The place was busy and clean but since they keep the door open it was really cold and windy. Not the best atmosphere.

So what's good here? Lobsters, its kinda in their name. How were they? Not good. But that's a matter of perspective I suppose. Lets start with a serious topic first, parking. Its in a really busy area but luckily there are plenty of parking spots for customers around the back. Phew... Now onto the food. What did we order? Two loster rolls (epic, meaning double meat) and a lobster bisque. The lobster bique was pretty good. Came with a packet of biscuits to go with the soup. The lobster rolls were quite fully stuffed. Was the amount of lobster worth the $$$ you're going to shell out? Probably not. Especially if you've had this stuff from Maine. How were the lobsters and how were the rolls? Lets start with the roll. It wasn't too bad. Fairly garlic-y and well toasted. The lobster. I would've preferred hot lobster in my lobster roll, especially with butter. Or if it was cold, came with a bit of flavoring to help it along. It was just straight up cold lobster with a sprinkle of seasoning on top. Its all preferences but it didn't sit right with me. There's no ding on their part, its only matter of preference.

We love this place! My daughter and I drive an hour and 45 minutes to come here to eat the best Lobster Rolls. Service is always great and the food is fresh and delicious.

It's a great place to grab a lobster roll. They have a pretty good one. I might be a little snobby about my rolls coming from the East Coast- this is the best I've found so far out in CA. I'm still tasting my way through. Lobster west has other seafood options on their menu, but I've only come for the roll so far. I enjoyed it on their patio while I was trying to kill some time before a meeting nearby. I'll share an update when I have more to review.

We ordered 4 of the "boss" lobster rolls and all of them were filled with scraps of lobster not chunks of lobster. This was very disappointing as we have been here in the past or actually have come here for years and the quality used to be much better. Also, they forgot to bring our lobster bisque till we were done with the lobster rolls. Overall a very disappointing visit so we will not be back for a while.

On a chilly day, their lobster bisque really hits the spot! It is fantastic! And the staff is really nice! It's a little pricy but well worth it.

I've always loved these lobster rolls. Today it was served with very cold, almost tasteless lobster meat. Not sure why they did that.

From start to finish it was fantastic! The lobster and crab rolls were super meaty and filling. The bread toast to crispy just how we like it w butter. Ask for butter in the side to drip it over your roll. Sooo good! We would come again! 10/10 in our books. New England clam chowder was also amazing!

This place is a cozy small indoor and outdoor restaurant with premium seafood sandwiches. The lobster roll on a perfectly toasted sweet bun was a very nice sandwich with tons of big chunks of lobster meat. It kind of pricey at $19 for a small sandwich but it's worth its price in taste. We also tried their crab and shrimp sandwiches that are also packed with meat. Both were good sandwiches but the lobster roll was the best sandwich. We loved their crunchy fresh coleslaw and added lots of crunch when added to a sandwich bite. The restaurant has a small selection of beer and wine which is great. Service was friendly and fast. They say you get what you pay for. We loved it here.

Best Lobster Rolls I've ever had! Seriously.. after you get the lobster rolls here, it's hard to enjoy lobster rolls anywhere else. I got both the Boss (+50% lobster meat) and Epic (+100% lobster meat) for comparison purposes. I like how their lobster rolls are not drenched in sauce and they use sustainably fished lobsters from Maine. Their lobster rolls are also super fresh. Their clam chowder is also amazing if it is hot. If it is cold, it is not as good. Their lobster bisque is just okay to me. Service is good, the employees are very friendly and constantly making sure everything is clean. There is a table set up at the entrance and you can order there. Highly recommend!! The original restaurant is in Coronado, but this one is just as good!!

The buttery roll is perfect for the lightly peppered lobster roll. Getting it "boss" size adds more lobster to your roll. The lobster is cold and roll is lightly toasted. Delicious bite every time.

I ordered the combo plate, it comes with three rolls, lobster, crab, and small shrimp, it was so good , my best place to go, a little bit pricey

Bread was buttery and rich . Lobster was delicious - upgrade to the Boss , it's totally worth it. Also got side of coleslaw which definitely added to the roll. Finished it off with some designer Lemonade. Service is super friendly - very laid back vibe. Would definitely recommend !

Came here with my brother and his girlfriend who's been wanting to try a lobster roll!! We used the yelp check in and got a scoop of clam chowder to go along with our boss lobster roll. We ordered at the stand and then seated ourselves in the dining room. The rolls came out quickly and the first thing I noticed was the toasty buns!! Perfect toasted with butter and stuffed to the brim with lobster! It was a very good lobster roll and I'll definitely be back if I'm in the area!

I was underwhelmed with the food. Thought the lobster lacked flavor and the seasoning was distracting. It had a celery seed, bay leaf, or a thyme flavor that ruined it for me. The coleslaw was OK but once again the seasoning was not to my liking. The bus your own tables sign felt like a food court at the mall.