The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Lobster, on a roll
Seven places outside the perimeter to snag a succulent lobster roll,
Summer weather has us craving seaside-inspired dishes — despite our landlocked status. Specifically, we’re dreaming of lobster rolls packed with succulent meat on extra-soft buns (and maybe a side of fries). If crunchy, salty, sweet and buttery lobster roll dreams are dancing in your head, too, hightail it to these OTP eateries — no plane or extended road trip required.
C&S Chowder House
Depending on your mood, you have two options on lobster rolls at C&S in Roswell. Order it Mainestyle (served chilled with mayo and celery) or Connecticut-style (warm with drawn butter, for a richer indulgence). Available on the menu year-round for both lunch and dinner, the lobster roll ($22) is a crowd-pleaser at this seafood restaurant. The roll is served on a toasted split-top New England-style hot dog bun and comes with thick-cut French fries or house salad — just do the fries, you won’t regret it. 12040 Etris Road, Roswell. 470321-5077, candschowderhouse.com.
Drift Fish House & Oyster Bar
This seafood powerhouse in Marietta has a Maine lobster roll ($29.95) on its dinner menu, naturally. You can opt for a lemonmayo preparation on extra hot evenings, or the hot buttered variation, if a cold meal doesn’t feel like “dinner” to you. Both are equally fresh and satisfying seafood fixes. 4475 Roswell Road, Marietta. 770-635-7641, driftoysterbar.com.
Brine Seafood Shack
Depending on your appetite, you can choose from a small ($17.95) or large ($26.95) lobster roll at this spot in Alpharetta’s Avalon. Enjoy it hot or cold, with a choice of side — options include bay fries, slaw, steamed new potatoes and more. Don’t miss a chance to try one of their tiki drink concoctions, enjoyed best on their rooftop patio.
700 Avalon Blvd., Alpharetta. 470-226-2190, brine seafood shack. com.
Hammock Trading Co.
In Sandy Springs, Hammock’s menu offers a twist: Baja California foods combined with a little Southern flair. Available for lunch and dinner, the lobster roll ($25) features lobster meat poached in butter with chives and served on an Engelman’s roll. Want extra flavor, or a little heat? Add bacon ($2) or jalapeno ($1) to amp things up. Choose from old bay fries, barbecue chips, or a substitute side or side salad/cup of soup (extra charge). There are plenty of gluten-free options for those with dietary restrictions (you also can get gluten-free bread for your lobster roll).
7285 Roswell Road, Sandy Springs. 770-395-9592, hammockstradingcompany.com.
The Big Ketch Saltwater Grill, Canton Street
At the Big Ketch, you can order the hot buttered lobster roll ($18.95) for lunch or dinner. Served on a toasted brioche roll, it is packed with large chunks of buttered Maine lobster meat. The roll comes with any of the sides available (try the jicama slaw or hushpuppies with remoulade for a classic pairing). 1105 Canton St., Roswell. 770993-5749, thebigketch.com.
Ray’s on the River
Take in serene views of the river and pretty landscaping surrounding Ray’s while you partake of a seafood feast for lunch. The lobster roll ($20) is crafted from Maine lobster salad, crunchy veggie slaw and lettuce, atop a toasted potato roll. It comes with house-cut fries, chips or a side salad, and is available on the lunch menu.
6700 Powers Ferry Road, Sandy Springs. 770-955-1187, raysrestaurants.com/raysontheriver.
Noble Fin
This Peachtree Corners spot offers a Maine lobster roll on the dinner menu as an entrée ($24), topped with celery leaves and served with fingerling potato chips.
5260 Peachtree Parkway, Peachtree Corners. 770-599-7979, noblefinrestaurant.com.