Rye Harbor Lobster Pound

This little hidden gem was suggested to me by a friend and let me tell you! It’s the best clam chowder I ever had! It’s called a fluffy clam chowder and it’s worth every penny! Loaded with lobster meat! Also got the lobster Mac and cheese! Also so good! Basically a little stand order your food to go and sit on the wall or at one of the picnic tables provided. Great food and great views of the harbor. I really enjoy coming here.

As a visitor from out of state, this may be the best lobster roll I've ever had. A solid quantity of fresh lobster and they don't over do the bread. The lobster bisque was amazing as well with nice big chunks of lobster. A cool staff as well.

One our favorite lobster rolls in the area. Great portion and tasty toasted buttery bun! Cool vibe, small food shack on Rye Harbor. Parking is much better the past few years with 30 minute free parking if you're there for the food. (More than enough time to eat a lobster roll and get seconds!) Plan on take away and eating elsewhere if you need shade (Rye Harbor State Park is like a two second drive and has a pavilion) but otherwise relax and check out the boats in the harbor. Also had the Montauk salad, so good. Fluffy chowder is on the to do list!

We missed out on eating here on our first visit, it was fall, they were closed! On another trip through NH, we were about 2 hours away and we made the decision to detour just for the lobster rolls. Was it worth it? Heck, yeah! I gobbled down two of those rolls that were stuffed with chunks of decadent lobster and coated in buttery goodness.

Best lobster roll of my life! This is a small hut, there is no seating. You can take the food and eat at the harbour (parking costs $10 if you stay in the harbour to eat) OR if you are just picking up you get 30mins free parking in the “30 minute” area. That’s what we did. We picked up food and went around the corner really close to the water to eat. The lobster roll (got two minis and a fluffy chowder). Fluffy chowder was really good, it had added lobster with buttersherry on top. A little too much butter for me but that’s preference issue! Honestly the lobster was amazing, soft and delicious. Line moves quickly!

Amazing seafood. We got one cold and one hot lobster roll. The cold one is mayo based, and the hot one is butter based. The roll was amazingly buttered and had SO much lobster meat on top, and for $29 each!Extremely pleased. We also tried the steamers, fluffy clam chowder, and lobster bisque. Everything was absolutely amazing and was exactly what I was craving. The seating is all outside and is limited, so be mindful if you’re going during busy season. Regardless, 10/10 seafood shack.

I don't get the hype. The food was barely average, and there wasn't anything special about their famous Fluffy Clam Chowder. It tasted like a basic thin clam chowder with barely any clams and some lobster on top. The sherry sauce didn't seem to add to the flavor, and if if was left off, I don't think I'd notice. Maybe the chowder would be better without it. The warm lobster roll was just ok, but for $30, it was hardly worth it. They offer half sizes for $12, which makes no sense. The shrimp in the shrimp cocktail were large and plentiful, but there was little sauce and it was good, not great. I'm not a huge fan of lobster bisque, and theirs didn't convert me. It most likely steered me to never trying it again. Also, unless you're a speed eater, the parking will cost you $10. Unless you're going for a whale watch, it's hardly worth it.

Stopped by for some fresh lobster in early October, made it the weekend before seasonal closing, so was happy about that. The two ladies working the counter and steamer were all business, but smiling and helpful. We had a 1.5# whole lobster steamed, a lobster roll, a pound of steamers and a bowl of chowder with lobster chunks on top. Sat at the Harborside tables and enjoyed the fresh food in sunshine and a cool breeze. Would go back for the food. The $5 parking and attendant was a scam, and not worth it. Better to tell them you’ll take your food with you and stop along the shore side overlooks.

The lobster bisque is the best I have had ANYWHERE. PERIOD. Better than any fine dining establishment could pull off. Lots of fresh lobster included in this velvety smooth bisque. Worth stopping in to try. They also have shrimp cocktail and other lobster items.

Classic lobster rolls, the wife had the hot, I had the cold. Roll grilled nicely, lobster done to perfection- both were delicious. We also split a fluffy clams chowder, which we had never tried- delicious. Not the best clam chowder we've ever had. We are very partial to the Sail Loft in Boston. The last few bites of this one was very watery- the first bites with the lobster, like I said delicious. The service was good for a little take out place- the freshness is what we were after more than anything. We took it away to the beach around the corner- the parking lot - where it's located is a drag. The food was good but it better be for 85$ for 2 lobster rolls and 16 ozs of fluffy chowder.

The lobster roll and the fluffy clam chowder were amazing. I can't wait to go back! The young ladies working there were very friendly and helpful in answering my questions.

Delicious lobster roll! Ordered it hot with fluffy clam chowder (it's made "fluffy" by adding chunks of lobster). Outdoor seating by the water. No indoor options so plan accordingly. Yummy! No mayo for those that are mayo adverse.

Adorable little shack with the freshest lobster!! I try a lot of lobster rolls( over 30 places all over Maine, NH and MA) .. this is in my top 10!! If you are coming you must also get the fluffy clam chowder, it's creamy and delicious. You can order at the shack and then there is panic tables and bathrooms if you walk a little towards the water.

Just as good as the first time. We had to spot here on our way back from ME. It is still the best lobster roll we ever ate. And you can't say no to the lobster bisque as well. Always on our list when we are in the area. It is worth the side trip!!!

We visit Hampton Beach every year and are always on the lookout for lobster rolls and seafood. This place was rated well so we gave it a try for lunch. The hot lobster roll was stuffed with warm butter lobster meat. The roll was perfectly toasted, wasn't too dry, wasn't soggy. You can taste the butter but not too much to overwhelm the lobster. The lobster bisque was rich and creamy with large chunks of lobster. The fluff chowder also had a ton of lobster meat. Everything was super hot, fresh and delicious. The staff were friendly, service was quick. The inside of the hut was clean and organized. Would highly recommend.

Never disappoints...you want fresh, can't get any fresher! Don't forget to tip! The team works very hard! I'm a repeater!!!!!

The best lobster roll and lobster bisque ever. Better than anything in Maine. Could easily eat this everyday.

Is this place still in business ? Open for summer yet ?? Reviews look great. Anyone know ? Saw a tick tock video today that looked fantastic 6/2/24

The absolute best lobster bisque and fluffy chowder! We also had a delicious lobster roll. Friendly staff and quick service.

A friend who is from New Hampshire highly recommended this place. She was absolutely right! For starters Rye is a very cute area right on the water and very scenic. My friend and I shared the hot lobster roll and we each got out own fluffy chowder soup. I couldn't wait to try the chowder based on all the amazing Yelp reviews. The Chowder is amazing with lots of Lobster on top and Sherry. I would drive back there just for that chowder. The Lobster roll was also very good, a little small but that seems to be the case at most places here in New Hampshire and Maine. There are benches near the water to sit and eat. There is no indoor seating.

The Best Lobster Roll we have ever had. Hands down. The lobster was the most luscious, juicy, sweet, flavorful lobster meat we've ever had in a lobster roll. And, they give you plenty of lobster meat. Out of this world. Staff was super nice. We will come back every time we are in town.

This is one of those hidden places that is worth the visit. Many know about the "Fluffy Chowder", see my previous review of "The Hungry Lobster", but they also have a chunky lobster bisque. This was just as good! Delicious and rich bisque with a generous topping of warm sherry/butter lobster meat. While this location is difficult to park at, I think it is worth the trouble as you can eat watching the boats come and go in and out of Rye Harbor. When your done, you can pick up some lobsters to take home.

Found this place on Yelp.... And I'm so glad I did. I usually go to another local place for lobster rolls but this time wanted to venture out see what else is out there. This is now my favorite place for a lobster roll and chowder. I love hot lobster rolls and this is hands down the best one I ever had, I'm having dreams about it haha. Also the drive to this location is really pretty, if you don't plan on staying more than 30 mins the parking is free which is nice. But it's a great place if you wanna grab food, grab a table and watch some boats. The fluffy chowder was 100000/10. I could bathe in it. Bury me with a hot lobster roll and their fluffy chowder. Point made? I hope so.

There were no clams in the clam chowder but since we ordered the extra lobster on top that was fair The steamers were just OK no flavor Nice view overlooking the water

Lobster bisque is the best! 10/10 and 30 minute free parking. We go here every year and love it

The portions are exceptional and the lobster is perfect! I highly recommend the lobster mac and cheese.

Looking for lobster in the New Hampshire coast? Look no further. This place is the real deal. Super fresh lobster and quick service. The parking lot is a paid parking lot for $5 for a day pass. But if you tell the cashier that you paid for parking, they will take $5 off your order. Only downside to this place is that there's no seating, so you're left with having to sit near the harbor on one of the few benches they have there. Not a big deal though, and probably not their fault as the place is very small. When I got there on a Sunday afternoon, the line wasn't too long. Took maybe 10 minutes to get to the front to order. I had the small fluffy chowder which is clam chowder topped with lobster in their sherry butter. I also ordered a small Montauk seafood salad, and a warm lobster roll. The chowder is a very good one, and especially delicious when you add the lobster. They definitely don't skimp on the lobster. The Montauk seafood salad was much better than I was expecting. Consisted of mussels, shrimp and scallops. All of it was very fresh and seasoned well. The lobster roll was filled with fresh lobster and the sherry butter was fantastic. No shells in the lobster at all which can sometimes ruin the sandwich. 10/10 would recommend! And will definitely be back.

My first visit to Rye Harbor and the lobster roll was delicious! I am looking forward to coming back again.

One of the best places around to fulfill your lobster craving. Get the "fluffy chowder" and thank me later!

Still GREAT seafood! We had lobsters, steamers and clam chowder. All were the pinnacle of freshness and flavor. You can taste the Atlantic Ocean in each and every bite. Staff are super friendly, efficient and competent. This meal was literally the best seafood meal I've had--ever! Thank you Rye Harbor Lobster Pound for a great seafood experience.

How did I live my whole life without knowing about fluffy chowder?!! Rye harbor is a little off the beaten path and there is a $5 parking charge, but it is validated back as a discount on your food order. The girls inside were super sweet and working hard - don't forget to tip them! This is a walk up, togo only type spot, but there are benches around the marina to eat and watch the boats. I had the small fluffy chowder and a lobster roll. OMG, so good - lobster roll wasn't overly wet and I'll be dreaming about the fluffy chowder. Take the time to head over to Rye Harbor - you won't regret it!

This is one of those times that admittedly Yelp comes through with the hidden gems/quality eats. After hanging out with a friend in Portsmouth, I definitely wanted to make a seafood stop to-go for dinner. I have always seen signs for The Beach Plum, and have been curious about it, but was wary after reading a number of recent reviews. If I was going to get a lobster roll, I wanted to ensure that it was done well! I was glad with my choice of checking out Rye Harbor Lobster Pound driving south back to MA. It's definitely hidden; I honestly would not have found it if it wasn't for folks giving a heads up here. I ordered the hot lobster roll (the sherry butter/lobster/all of it! were delicious), and had the clam chowder which was also excellent. I didn't realize fluffy chowder was actually a scoop of the sherry buttered lobster into the chowder (!) but it just gives me another reason to stop by another time! As with all my experiences, if the service is kind/on point, then it truly deserves 5 stars, and I appreciated those who helped out today. Looking fwd to coming back!

Oh, so decadent... the warm, butter filled lobster roll! And the bisque with the fluff! How do they get that silky smooth fluffy texture on the bisque? If you're looking for that extra decadent treat... soooo worth it!!!!

Delicious. My first trip to Maine, the lobster was fantastic! We had a nice dinner by the water.

Lobster bisque. Eat all the bisque. Actually, no then if you do there is nothing left for me. This is the best, creamiest, fluffiest and decadent chowder I have had in my entire life. I have also dipped my steamers in the bisque in lieu of butter. Do it, try it. It's amazing. I prefer the lobster bisque over the fluffy chowder. The flavor profile if you have both the chowder and bisque together for me, the stand out is the lobster bisque. Great lobster and steamer prices. They oblige when I ask for specific lobsters, and larger size steamers.

Best lobster roll ever. Can't wait to go back!! I got a great soup too but can't remember the name - was 3 meals!

Ate here on friend recommendation- was expensive but lots of lobster and quite good- ate it on picnic table at nearby state park

One of the best if not the best lobster rolls I've had! Both the bread and the lobster were super buttery. Lobster tasted so fresh, tender. They also have this amazing fluffy clam chowder. It includes lobster and clam with a buttery topping. It is actually SO good - this one is definitely the best clam chowder I've ever had. Staff were super friendly, and we were served quickly. They have a cute dog greeting people at the door. Parking is free for 30 minutes, and there are a couple of outdoor tables.

If you're a lobster lover like me, this is the place to go! This is a small shop, but they certainly don't skimp out on the lobster meat. I got the cold lobster roll and small fluffy chowder. The lobster roll was stuffed with lobster chunks and smothered in mayo. They're so generous with the lobster that you wouldn't realize that you're eating out of a regular sized hot dog bun! I've had many lobster rolls across the New England area and this is probably one of the best lobster rolls I've ever had. As for the fluffy chowder, I originally got it because it was something I've never had before. It was a combination of two foods I love: clam chowder and lobster. The chowder was smooth and creamy and loaded with large chunks of buttered lobster. So you get the best of both worlds! Overall, great food at reasonable prices!

We have been super excited to come back to Rye for another lobster roll from this joint, but unfortunately they're closed for the season. If you're around when they're open, you must take advantage. You won't be disappointed.

Very disappointed after traveling out of my way to revisit Second visit to Rye Harbor Lobster and my last. Consistency is valued and not what I received. $30 for 1 clam chowder and 1 Fluffy chowder. Both were barely warm. Clam chowder had very little flavor and the large fluffy chowder had 4 SMALL bits of lobster meat, 3 of which were attached to the cartilege claw piece of lobster which has a bad texture and taste and is not actually meat. The little bit of lobster juice didn't even change the color of the chowder below it. First visited Rye Harbor Lobster in September 2023. Though the prices were a bit high, this was the best chowder in a 5 stop chowder finding mission. We had a regular chowder and a fluffy chowder. The 2023 fluffy chowder was excellent, though expensive for the spoonful of lobster meat on top. Returned for this visit in July 2024, expecting a great repeat experience and I would have enjoyed a can of Progresso clam chowder almost as much and would have saved $27.

Simply the best lobster bisque and fluffy chowder around. Big chunks of lobster! Been several times and it's always high on my list when I am in town.

This is the best bang for your Buck for lobster anywhere along the coast of New England! with awesome prices on their soft shell lobsters to the primitive experience of eating it entirely by hand while overlooking a bay filled with lobster boats, this is my favorite way and place to eat lobster! I personally prefer the lobster bisque to the fluffy chowder but to each their own.

My friends and I stopped here for lunch on a whim to kill some time before checking into our air bnb. This cute little restaurant on the water is such a nice surprise. But the most important thing I have to rave about is their lobster roll and fluffy clam chowder. I can't stop thinking about it!! Definitely a must stop to relax and eat lunch by the water.

So freaking good! Lobster bisque is yummy and lobster was fresh and excellent. Lobster roll is plentiful , fresh and well prepared. Love the casual shack. They work quickly and get to everyone with good manners and service. We will be back! Only downer is the parking lot. Kind of a mess and in need of some paving.I can get past that for the food.

Great little spot, friendly staff but I suspect that the hot lobster roll (lobster in sherry butter) is made with frozen lobster. Lobster meat was shredded and so dry. Roll was perfectly grilled. The Montauk seafood salad was delicious- lemon tarragon (?) dressing. But please, use Maine shrimp! Taste tested the Rye Harbor Lobster Pound hot lobster roll against the little shack at the back of the parking lot closest to the harbor. The little shack's cold lobster roll was excellent- chunks of lobster dressed lightly with mayo. Served with lemon and chips. (Btw- they had a delicious cheeseburger and chowder too)

Maine is supposedly known for lobster, but I'm thinking all the folks from Maine drive down to NH to get their lobster mack-on at Rye Harbor Lobster Pound! This small family-owned and -operated shack, right off of Rye Harbor, offers a very modest menu of steamed lobster of various pounds, soups (clam chowder, lobster bisque, fluffy clam chowder, and lobster gazpacho), rolls (hot or cold lobster rolls), some appetizers (shrimp cocktail, Montauk seafood salad, and coleslaw), and lobster mac & cheese. Besides this place being a local favorite for delicious fresh seafood, I had heard that this place was also known for their buttersherry sauce. YUM! We ordered: the Hot Lobster Roll (with buttersherry sauce; eat this one as soon as possible, as the roll can get super soggy from the sauce), a Fluffy Chowder (topped with lobster and buttersherry sauce; thick and creamy), Chunk Lobster Bisque (garnished with lobster in buttersherry sauce; this was absolutely one of my favorite eats on this trip, as this bisque was thick and creamy, super flavorful, and very comforting!), and a 4.2+ lb steamed female lobster (this big kahuna of a mama was super delicious - it was like an endless amount of sweet meat!). There are a couple of tables where you can sit outside and enjoy your meal. There were some patrons who came to pack their lobsters to-go, too. Parking is a little complicated, as there is a lot where you pay a fee, or 30-minute metered parking (strictly enforced!). Don't forget to say 'Hello' to the super sweet Retriever! Just don't feed him anything, as he's diabetic! Super friendly staff! +delicious steamed lobster! +Chunk Lobster Bisque! +buttersherry sauce! +fresh seafood! +couple of tables for al fresco dining +limited parking (30-minute metered parking or a paid lot) +friendly staff

I just don't understand how I have lived in NH for 12 years and just found out about this place. By far the freshest and most reasonably priced seafood in the state. Whether you want to take something home or enjoy a lobster roll outside while taking in the view of the harbor, this is the spot. The staff is accommodating, friendly and everything is perfectly cooked everytime. They will even give you a cooler to insulate your precious seafood morsels while you drive to your favorite sea side picnic spot (mine is Odiorne state park, about 10 minutes away). 10/10, 5/5, I would rate you guys higher if I coild

Fluffy clam chowder, hot lobster roll, and a cold lobster roll, my new all-time favorite! Buttery goodness in the chowder and the perfectly toasted roll, and fresh tender lobster meat are absolutely perfect!

THE. BEST. LOBSTER. ROLL. My dad and I are always looking for hole in the wall places with great food around the Hampton area. We came across Rye Lobster Pound after looking for lobster rolls on yelp. It is a small shack on the harbor with picnic tables outside which makes for a great spot to enjoy a lobster roll. We went several times after initially going. Their lobster rolls are delicious - you can tell the lobster was caught that day. Their fluff is also amazing. It's chowder with plenty of lobster chunks in it. Prices aren't bad either. This place is a MUST!

Delicious lobster rolls, muscles and chowder. Very nice and friendly owner. Parking is a hustle and it basically and take away place only. Recommended.

Great food and owners. Thats good news! Also traffic there had Pease trade port limit parking

Searching to find the best lobster roll in MA, NH, and ME, this was the winner; and the best lobster roll we've ever had. The fluffy chowder was amazing as well. Hidden gem.

We ordered two one and quarter pound lobsters, two pounds of steamers, and a fluffy chowder. The food was fabulous. The lobsters were super fresh, sweet, and cooked just perfectly. The steamers were equally fresh, sweet, and cooked to perfection. The fluffy chowder was delicious in a combination of thick creamy chowder with a delightful addition of lobster meat. The service was outstanding. All the staff were very friendly and attentive. The food was well packed to take it on the road, eat in the car, or find a table or bench nearby. Everything was thoughtful packed for us. The location is a short detour off I-95, in a nondescript but picturesque fisherman's harbor. Forgot to take a picture of the food, because we were enjoying it so much. Highly recommend this place! Five stars!

A beautiful, hidden gem by the coast. The chowder is as fresh as the sea air and they do not skimp on the lobster when you order the fluffy! Absolutely worth a stop, you can take it and eat at any of the nearby spots to view and taste the ocean!

My first Lobster Roll on the east coast! And these guys did not disappoint! The lobster bisque was straight fire. The cream and sherry were just perfect highlighting all of that fresh lobster meat! The bar has been set high by the folks at the pound!

We stopped by Rye Harbor Lobster Pound after a trip to the nearby Seacoast Science Center. The woman behind the counter noticed my 6-year old daughter had a stuffed toy starfish, told her the Seacoast Science Center was one of her favorite places, and then actually pulled out a live lobster to show her. What a delightful visit! Everyone was so kind down to the parking lot attendants. Also, the food was amazing. We got hot lobster rolls and fluffy chowder. There's a reason they win awards.