Mason's Famous Lobster Rolls

My son and brother wanted to try this place as we finished shopping. We're visiting from FL and have access to some of the freshest seafood so we have lots of experience to compare this place to. First thing I gotta say, the service is awful. It was about 5:30pm on a Saturday and when we entered, we stood at the counter for about a minute, loudly questioning if they were really open? There were no other customers, it was dead silent inside. A lady finally wandered out from the back, mumbled "what can I get you?", and continued on her phone call [via an Air Pod] while we were trying to order. We ordered a classic Lobster Roll and lobster bisque - 2 items, should be simple, right? It took a few minutes to make but when the order came out, she had brought us chowder. My brother brought it to her attention immediately and she honestly argued "No, you said chowder?". She never once apologized or got off the phone, she just said to keep it and she'll bring out the bisque. She brought out the bisque while still obviously continuing her phone call, not asking if we needed anything or how the food was. These seem like basic things a restaurant employee should do, esp when there's no music or other customers, so it just felt weird sitting in an empty restaurant and get ignored by the one employee. The sandwich was $25, which seems overpriced but we took a risk. It was delicious but it's just a sandwich. My son said it tasted fresh & the bread was good, so that's a plus. We asked for a cup of water and the employee mumbled something about not having cups [again, she's still talking on the phone], so we bought a bottle of water. The bisque was also good, but the consistency seemed thinner than other variations we've had. The chowder also seemed watery and lacked depth of flavor but was decent especially since it was technically free. Before we left, we used the restroom and I just gotta add that the dark hallway with poor signage is very unwelcoming to customers. I get that there's a "no public restrooms" policy but its in the back of the restaurant. I can't imagine many people can just walk in off the street and use it without purchasing something, so why keep it unlit? Summary: Food is pricey but if you're an out of towner like ourselves, it was worth the quick stop if you're craving a lobster roll. Just don't expect hospitality, restaurant ambiance, or order accuracy - Maybe double check that you got what you actually ordered and go eat it in your hotel room.

I’m new to the Charleston area and have been looking for a good lobster roll. The rolls were $25, which is a bit pricey considering the sides and drinks are sold separately. We got two Connecticut rolls, one shrimp roll, and a cup of clam chowder. They were delicious.

I can’t believe I spent $52 for basically a hotdog bun of Lobster meat. And a tiny cup of lobster bisque that was super thin & watery. And paid to add what they called “chunks” of lobster meat. $7+$7 for a little cup of watered down lobster bisque with one hunk of lobster lol. I paid extra for the “Bar Harbor” Connecticut Roll. Which was suppose to have 50% more meat including a lobster tail. (It said) lol. Idk if there was lobster tail mixed in? But it def wasn’t like what’s in the picture. My main complaint about the roll wasn’t that it was small. It’s that it didn’t taste like the Maine Lobster that was advertised? Maybe frozen I guess? And it was super tough. Idk if they overcooked it or if it was just low quality? But the size, flavor and toughness didn’t taste like fresh Maine Lobster!? To say I was disappointed in my little $52 meal is an understatement… Should have just gone to Costco and bought some big Maine Lobster tails And steamed them myself. I didn’t think to take a picture until I was almost done. But you can see the basic size of the sandwich, and the little cup of soup bowl

These lobster rolls were delicious and what I needed after a long afternoon of exploring. Only reason to not have 5 stars was that it was quite expensive!

When we first arrived the place was empty and it took a few seconds for the staff to come out of the back. We greeted them but received silence in return. That all being said the food was phenomenal and I thoroughly enjoyed every bite.

It’s very pricey but very good! My friend and I ordered the Connecticut roll and our other friend got the classic roll. We were all very satisfied!

Very good Lobster rolls. Little pricey considering a little bag of Lays is the side but was a good Lobster roll.

Best lobster roll I ever had!! The Bar Harbor Connecticut Roll!!

This was delicious! My husband scoped this place out online while visiting Charleston, and I'm so glad he did. We split the Connecticut Roll and Lobster Bisque. Both tasted fresh and really hit the spot. The restaurant is on the small side but does have seating available, and it's clean. The worker greeted us and got food out to us quickly.

Literally obsessed! I have only good things to say about how amazing these sandwhiches are. Yes, they are expensive but so worth it. Every bite feels like heaven, the toasted buttery bread and the fresh lobster is unreal. This place is not about ambiance it's about the food. I wish they'd plate it with some chips for the cost of it, you have to buy those extra but nonetheless it's absolutely delicious. I wish they'd open one in Greensboro, North Carolina! I'd be there all the time.

Absolutely delicious Connecticut lobster roll (lobster meat served warm with butter)! Didn't want a single piece of lobster to go to waste. Just a couple of staff members so it takes a 5-10 minutes, but worth the wait! 5 tables inside, super close to the City Market! Enjoyed a cup of the clam chowder and a Nathan's Classic all-beef hot dog as well :)

The food is ok, the prices are very high so I didn't try the lobster rolls. Atmosphere and service there is top notch and the restaurant itself is in a good location.

Amazing as always. The lobster is always fresh and delicious. The guys or girls in the store are helpful if needed. I do think it's a bit pricey, but coming from the north where lobster is more plentiful, that may be my bias.

Restaurant was clean and food came out quick. All of the lobster on my roll was just small pieces. With a high price tag, I want to see the big claw chunks and what not. But the bread was good and I left full.

Delicious fresh lobster! The owner and employees were so kind and accommodating. The food was delicious. Must stop by if you're in SC!

Simply delicious lobster rolls with big chunky lobster meat on a warm bun. Lobster lovers may appreciate this quick and affordable way to enjoy this delicious seafood without fanfare and a big bill.

Delish. They are generous with the lobster. I got the Connecticut roll. Warm and buttery. Bread was perfect size. Love the layout with their store. Easy to clean up after the mess lol

Lena made the best lobster rolls I've ever had and I've had them from Bangor Maine, Boston, NY, Baltimore, ect. Her customer service was above and beyond. 10/10. Grilled cheese was great also

Ok, so First thing, was thrilled they do a warm butter roll and on the right kind of buttered and toasted roll. It was easy and clear how to order. It's a bit overpriced for it to come with nothing. I feel like we wouldn't have felt so bad if it had come with a lemon on the side, a bag of chips or a drink. Literally add one thing and it makes it feel less bad. I know once you give one thing people will always want more and business is hard, but dang. Overall good food.

I order the Connecticut lobster roll after seeing hundreds of great reviews about the quality of these rolls. The roll ended up being juicy, packed, and the bread the perfect flavor as well. My roll was $23 plus tax and that will get you the roll alone (no drink or chips included in that price). My only issue with this restaurant was the blatant rudeness coming from the server. He barely said two words to me despite taking my order and delivering it to my table. Even when my food did arrive he stood behind me without saying a word and then threw it in my hands after someone told me to turn around. Though, the worst part is that he was joyful and respectful to everyone else in the restaurant; asking how their day is going and recommending certain rolls to them. It was clear the disrespect was only towards me.

We got a lobster roll and a lobster salad Service was fast and easy. The food was good but nothing special. I do think it's over priced a bit.

I was in Charleston 3 days and ate here twice. I had the hot roll for one meal and the cold one (classic) for another and both were delicious. It's clean and the staff are friendly. Just keep in mind it's made fresh to order so there is a short wait for the food.

Drove 3 1/2 hours to take my son to the beach for the first time on my birthday. I wanted to come to Charleston instead of any other beach just to stop by here for a lobster roll on my birthday. Very sad to see that y'all were closed at 7pm even though Yelp and Google said yall were open until 9pm As a mom I don't make much time for myself this was the one thing I wanted

Truth is I love lobster rolls. If I am a city where I can find a lobster roll I go get one (maybe two!) When I heard about Mason's I set out to try their roll. As I walked there I was thinking there is no way this will be as good as Luke's Lobster Rolls up in the northeast cities. Surprise it was as good, if not better! Nice portion of lobster, solid bread, excellent flavor. Now a must if I am in Charleston. The shop itself is a bit tired, bathrooms were "out of order", and the place is rundown, but the quick nice service made up for it. After all I went there for a lobster roll, not a fancy sit down meal. I will be back!!

Our uber driver informed us to check this place out while we were in town. It is located in an nice location, not too far from the market and other shopping areas. There is not much seating so it may be ideal to grab and go if it is busy. Food (3.5 stars) Classic Lobster roll: comes with Lobster and mayo. The mayo tasted like celery. It was not layered in mayo so it was subtle. Connecticut Lobster roll: comes with Lobster and butter. The food was okay but I've had better & more flavorful lobster rolls so I'd check out other restaurants prior to stopping by again

I was craving a lobster roll while visiting Charleston and decided to try Mason's. Mason's is a small restaurant with a few tables inside. It wasn't too busy when we arrived, so we were able to walk right up and order. I ordered 2 Connecticut Rolls with pickles and a drink. The rolls range from about $19-25. At the time their soda machine was out so I had to purchase a bottle soda. They also offer seltzers and wine. When the lobster rolls came out they looked good, but weren't warm like they were supposed to be and didn't really taste flavorful. They also forgot our side of pickles, but the employee brought them right out when we asked.

Can a true, real, authentic lobster roll exist In Charleston, SC? Mason's said they could meet the challenge. Their menu is simple; classic rolls, Connecticut style, lobster salad, and lobster BLT. There was also a shrimp roll, but if the word "Lobster" is in the name, do I even want to eat shrimp? That lobster salad roll was recommended by the guy at the table next to me. Per his suggestion, we got the salad roll... When you take that first bite a sadness hits you. You are already bemoaning when this sandwich is going to be gone because it taste just TOO GOOD to leave any behind! When you lower your head and shake it back in forth...that's how you know this is going to be a memorable sandwich! I can't even talk anymore...I have to get back to this lobster salad roll!

It is even possible to make a bad lobster roll? I have gone to several Mason's locations and the rolls are delish! It is an expensive sandwich, but it is a lobster sandwich. The service is always good. The ambiance is like a nice sandwich shop. If you like lobster, then you need to try a lobster roll. I always get the warm butter option - not the cold mayo version.

I Love the Lobster Roll and Clam Chowder! Excellent service and fresh food. I'll be back for sure!

Very good, simple food. Good size servings and tasted very fresh. Great service too!!

This roll was delish and just what it should have been. Lobster was tender and the roll was warm and buttery. Paired with fine lager in a very casual location right many the market.

Never had a lobster roll before so, I tried this place. I was met by one of the nicest men who helped me figure out what to try. He subjected a classic lobster roll with a lobster bisque. Great advice and great food. I will be back.

This is a small restaurant located on Market Street. Inside, you order at the counter and then sit down at one of 5 small tables. It's all self-serve when it comes to grabbing your food and cleaning up. You can also order alcohol here, either on draft, can, or bottle, but it's not a huge selection. They also serve hot chocolate, cappuccino, and hot chocolate. My friend and I got the Connecticut Roll and Classic Lobster Roll. The Connecticut Roll comes in warmed bread and lobster with butter. The Classic comes in warmed bread, but cold lobster and has mayonnaise plus butter. It was decent, but not the best lobster roll I've ever had. It was $22 for each and we each added a soup ($3 with lobster roll, $4 if ordered separately with a lobster roll). You can ask for pickles on the side for free. The lobster bisque was good, but the clam chowder was forgettable and didn't seem to have much clam. The service was fine. There is one unisex bathroom in the back. For my friend and I, after ordering a lobster roll each plus soup and bottles of soda, it came out to $65. Overall, this is a nice place to check out if you like to eat lobster rolls in a casual setting.

Great service. Hubby had the classic and thought it good. His disappointment was the price $23 for just the lobster roll alone but ends up it was a fair price. Decent amount of lobster. I had the lobster salad roll. Seasoning on point. Delicious. He also had a cup of clam chowder at $6. He stated tastes almost like Campbell soup and could use more pepper. Overall food was okay.

Small, quaint restaurant. Service- I've definitely had better. Don't hold your breath waiting on a smile or friendly welcome. The roll was $23- liked that the bun was toasted to add a little texture and flavor. I've had better; they probably get traffic because of the location.

I'll start with this- the lobster roll was extremely tasty. But it's so expensive I cannot see myself ever returning. I paid $25 for ONE ROLL no drink or side. Overall the place is pretty cute and clean, just too expensive for how casual of a place it is. Maybe a great stop for wealthy tourists but locals dont fill this place for a reason. Again, food was good so if you have the budget stop by.

Right in the heart of downtown Charleston, was super excited about trying this place because who doesn't love lobster rolls? Only one person working and made the lobster rolls right when you order them so they were super fresh, and wow, it was ridiculously tasty! Came with a good amount of lobster and the bread was really good and toasted to perfection, warm butter on top, my mouth is watering thinking about it again. Have to knock this place though for the price of a lobster roll. Really expensive and the size of the lobster roll isn't very big, comes with just the roll, honestly I left that place pretty hungry still and had to get some more food on the way home. One lobster roll cost more than a large pizza at most places, they could at least include a side with it. Very delicious though!

Delicious! A few years ago we visited Maine for a family vacation and I'm pretty sure we ate lobster rolls every day. Once you have one it is like you can't have too many! We were excited to see Mason's by the market and quickly went in to split a roll. The Connecticut roll was perfect and tasted just like the northeast. My only complaint would be that every table had a sanitized tag on it, but every table also had food crumbs and hadn't been cleaned. Clearly not sanitized like the tags placed mentioned.

It was not the best lobster roll I ever had but it was doable. I had the Connecticut Roll which came with a generous amount of lobster in a toasted bun. The clam chowder was a bit watery and lukewarm.

We were shopping at the market and decided to grab lunch at Mason's. We live in Richmond, Va and find it very hard to find a Connecticut style lobster roll so we were so excited! We purchased a lobster roll and She Crab soup. The soup wasn't our favorite - it had a strong Sherry taste - we prefer a creamier, spicer soup. The lobster roll was delicious, they did not skimp on the lobster, the roll itself was soft and buttery. If you're craving a Connecticut style lobster roll on the go, add this to your list.

Average lobster rolls, reminded me of a Luke's lobster roll chain location. I would come back if I had the craving locally, but way too many good food options in Charleston to come here when it's nothing special or unique.

After a long walk around the city markets, we were famished and craving seafood. A quick Yelp search led us to this casual lobster roll restaurant. The pictures in the website look appetizing and the customers inside seemed to be enjoying their meals. There are 6 tables inside observing social distancing and we noticed the cashier Derek also wiping/clearing/ sanitizing tables in between order-taking. Husband and I both ordered the classic lobster roll ($16.95) , he added a cup of clam chowder ($3), I added a bowl of lobster bisque ($6) and more lobster meat in the bisque (+$3) and unlimited soda + chips ($3.50). The lobster roll hit the spot, bread was perfectly buttered and toasted and brought out the goodness of the chilled chunky lobster meat dashed with mayo and lemon butter. Yumminess. The clam chowder and lobster bisque were so tasty and filling as well. Food came out quick and customer service was friendly. If it wasn't our last day in town we would have returned to try the other items on the menu! Looking at the Yelp pictures it looks like we weren't served pickle with our rolls though.... Lunch for 2 was around $55+ but totally worth it!

We love lobster rolls so we decided to give Masons a try while in Charleston. The flavor of the rolls was good, but the 2 star rating comes from the size of the rolls they serve, Masons rolls are much shorter than a standard hot dog bun; you literally get like 3 bites. Tiny in comparison to any other rolls we have previously had and definitely not worth the $50 price for two!

I am extremely happy that this place was recommended to me. This is only the second place we have found that actually serves a Lobster Roll warm. After having warm lobster rolls many years ago, we have been on the hunt to find them again. We loved the Connecticut Style (warm lobster, with melted butter on a toasted roll) so much that my husband and I each ordered one and then ordered another one and split it. Their menu is limited to various types of lobster rolls and very few other items but they do Lobster Rolls right if that is what you are looking for. We tried the Lobster Bisque and we were not impressed. The lady that was working there was extremely pleasant and provided good service and prepared the food perfectly.

Clean little restaurant in the heart of Charleston. I was really excited for a lobster roll... lobster was delicious, but as a roll, it wasn't great. Kinda flavorless and somewhat disappointing, especially considering it was $30 after tip. Maybe try something other than the most popular two because they are the most plain.

But they stopped by this place to try out their lobster rolls. Friend was visiting from California and he is a huge fan of lobster rolls. I do too covid-19 service was a bit slow but there was still plenty of people placing their orders to go. This isn't a fancy place more of like a cafe. You can order to go or dine in. The smell was divine as we waited. We were so excited! Well...once we got our rolls, my excitment went away just a tad bit. Seeing the size of the rolls, I was a bit disappointed especially for the price. I got the lemon butter roll. Taste wasn't bad. I would try again next time I'm nearby, maybe a different type or flavor. Your roll does come with a bag of chips. Got salt and vinegar! If you're a lobster roll fan check this place out. You might enjoy it!

Underwhelming and overpriced. Rolls were nearly flavorless. Costco's Ivars clam chowder is considerably better. The lobster bisque was passable.

We decided to grab the lobster roll before we headed to the airport, the lobster rolls tasted great but little bit pricey

Lena made some of the best lobster rolls I've had in a long time. Well worth the drive. In her service was beyond great and she offered to make a grilled cheese sandwich for my daughter. That's allergic to seafood.

Moving from the West Coast, I was excited to try out the seafood scene here in Charleston. I am pleased to say that lobster rolls out here are DELICIOUS and seriously PACKED! This is the case here at Mason's! The staff here are very knowledgeable about their dishes and are definitely amazing. It's a cute little place that is right next to the city market so you can shop a little and eat here and it's not heavy so there is still room for dessert at the many dessert shops in downtown Charleston. In a nutshell, bread...good. Lobster... DELICIOUS AND A GOOD AMOUNT... overall.. will be back!

Don't eat there the place is not clean and the people are very rude, the cashier doesn't know how to calculate we were charged for food we didn't order or didn't get the correct food, we immediately told them and they didn't want to correct anything or refund for the food we didn't receive. Then I was told they would take this to a new level and I said go ahead. Finally we got a refund after an hour, the food not that great, don't even know if the lobster is the real deal.

I am obsessed with lobster rolls since having one a little over a year ago. I made it a priority to get one while in Charleston recently. We were checking out the Charleston City Market and thought we would give Mason's Famous Lobster roll a try since we were right across the street. The restaurant is very small and can only accommodate a few tables for diners. We ordered at the counter and luckily found a seat inside. We waited about ten minutes for our lunch to be brought to our table. The lobster roll was $19 and I did not expect it to be stuffed with lobster and it was not. It was very good and priced accordingly considering the amount of meat that was inside. Overall, a good lobster roll if you are in Charleston and do not want to pay a lot of money for one.

This place definitely will burn a whole in your wallet. Don't get me wrong, the lobster roll was delicious but a lobster roll and a small lobster salad for $60 after tax and tips are quite expensive. The service is ok, you order and pay for your food, almost like a fast food place. At least, I could say that I have tried the Mason's famous lobster roll but most like will not come back again.

The food is yummy! I wish they had more selections for sides. Maybe some homemade southern potato salad or an ear of corn with some potatoes.... I had the CT roll - warm and buttery. It was so good. Those who don't eat lobsta or crab can have hot dogs or grilled cheese. Those were very tasty, too. Would be good to add a piece of fruit or something. The clam chowder was so good...especially with my oyster crackers. Gotta have oyster crackers! The only downside is that the bathroom was a little dirty; the place stayed busy, so they probably had a hard time keep up with everything. The staff was friendly and that is important to have, especially for us tourists visiting another area. Being from another popular southern area it's good to know some southern hospitality and kindness carries on. I've traveled all over the country and have tried all sorts of cuisine. When in Boston or in the NE, you gotta have lobsta rolls and some chowda. When I found them on Yelp, I was excited! Overall, I'd say yes, try them out! Lobster rolls in the South?!? Yes, please!

I've really been wanting some lobster rolls. More specifically, Connecticut lobster rolls (warmed). Decided to try this. Easy to find on Market St. Employee shortage so service was slow (not their fault). Did not get acknowledged tho while I was standing right in front of them at the counter. I think at least a greeting would be appropriate while we wait patiently for our order. Anyways, I dined inside. Just a little area but it wasn't cramped. Maybe 2 others tables were occupied. Food didn't take terribly long, especially considering they were short staffed. I'd give it a 3.5 star Got the Connecticut lobster roll. It was...okay. A little bland and roll didn't taste much like butter. It wasn't bad. I was just...underwhelmed. I gave it a try. Don't think I'd go back tho, especially since lobster rolls aren't exactly cheap.

This is a great place to get some delicious lobster rolls. I gave them 4 stars due to the following: 1. Location: the location is perfect! Right in the middle of downtown Charleston. Walking distance to many hotels. 2. Price: I thought the price was decent. $16 for a regular roll, $20 for a roll with extra meat (bar harbor), and side items were roughly about $5-$7 each. 3. Beverages: they had a small cooler with some drink selections such as iced tea, lemonade, can beers, and bottled water. 4. Service: the service was fast and efficient. I wished they told us that there was a soda fountain on the side of the wall. Since it's in a tourist area, it would be wise to assume most of your customers are first timers. Recommending items on the menu and whatever else is available would be highly noted and appreciated. 5. Food: the lobster rolls were quite delicious! I like how they had many versions of the lobster rolls. We ordered 3 - regular Connecticut which is the warm kind with drawn butter, regular classic which is the cold version, and the bar harbor Connecticut which is just a fancy way of saying I want more meat on my Connecticut roll. All the rolls came with a bag of chips. Overall, I would definitely come back to this place when we're in Charleston again.

Who does not love a lobster roll?! Tucked in the back corner right outside the downtown Market, you'll find Mason's. When we went over here for lunch, there was a cruise ship at port, too, which made a cool backdrop on our way in. The place is small and food is ready really quickly -- the menu is limited which is probably why they can crank it out so quickly. Mason's offers the traditional cold lobster roll and my personal favorite, the Connecticut style which is warm and covered in butter. I upgraded to the Bar Harbor roll which is supposed to offer the regular sandwich with a tail on top. They were out of tails so they just added a little more meat to mine -- next time I'll skip this unless they have tails in stock. Inside is neat and clean, I'll definitely be returning!