If you’re craving a proper lobster roll in London, 2026is your year. London’s seafood scene has levelled up recently, and a good lobster roll is no longer something you need to fly to New England for. From buttery brioche buns to generous chunks of lobster meat and creative twists you don’t see anywhere else — these are the spots worth visiting. Below are the places I personally recommend based on taste, consistency, popularity, and overall dining experience.
If you haven’t had a lobster roll in London before, Burger & Lobster is the place I tell everyone to start with. They’ve basically perfected the classic roll: soft toasted brioche, chilled Atlantic lobster meat, lemon mayo, and a tiny hint of chives. Simple, clean flavours — exactly how a lobster roll should taste.
They also give you a proper portion, which matters when you’re paying London prices.
What to expect here:
Consistent taste across all branches
A clean and classy restaurant ambience
Fries + garlic butter that upgrade the whole meal
Perfect for first-timers
- Popular London branches: Soho, Oxford Circus, Knightsbridge, Mayfair, Canary Wharf, Threadneedle Street.
- Website: Visit the official site here — Burger & Lobster
- Tip: If you go during lunch hours, the waiting time drops dramatically compared to evenings.
2. Lobster Kitchen (Fitzrovia) — Casual, Cozy & Very “New England”
Fitzrovia’s Lobster Kitchen feels like a small seaside shack dropped in the middle of London. It’s casual, cozy, and very laid-back — and the lobster rolls here are packed with fresh meat instead of fillers.
Their rolls come in different styles: buttery traditional, lemony mayo, or slightly spiced versions depending on the season. They also offer a low-carb variant if you’re avoiding bread.
Why people love it:
Proper “beach-shack” vibe
Budget-friendly compared to most lobster spots
Fresh, generous portions
Very quick service
- Website/Guide: Check more details here — Lobster Kitchen London
- Tip: Try visiting during the afternoon — it’s less crowded, and the ambience feels more relaxed.
3. Smack Lobster Roll — Best for Delivery & Quick Takeaway
If you prefer grabbing something quick or you’re working in central London, Smack Lobster Roll is your go-to option. They no longer operate a full dine-in restaurant, but their takeaway and delivery service is still very popular.
Their menu is fun because they offer multiple flavour profiles:
Classic Roll — simple and buttery
California Roll — avocado mayo + lettuce
Mexican Roll — with a touch of spice
Seven Samurai — a Japanese-inspired twist
Perfect if you want something a bit different from the traditional style.
What makes it good:
Fast delivery
Creative lobster roll options
Perfect for office lunch or quick eats
Reasonable pricing
- More details: Smack Lobster Roll Guide
- Tip: Their courgette fries are surprisingly addictive — don’t skip them.
4. Wright Brothers — For a More Premium Seafood Experience
If you enjoy seafood in general and want a slightly more refined setting, Wright Brothers is a great name. While they’re known for oysters, some of their seasonal menus include rich lobster rolls that feel more like a luxury treat than a quick bite.
Why you might love it:
High-quality seafood
Beautiful interiors
Slightly more upscale dining
Great cocktails to pair with your meal
- Website: Wright Brothers
- Tip: If you’re going for dinner, book ahead — their tables fill up quickly.
5. Fish Market (Liverpool Street) — A Hidden Gem
This one is more of a seafood-focused restaurant, not a dedicated lobster roll shop. But their lobster roll (available seasonally) is fantastic — buttery, rich, and slightly more gourmet than the traditional American versions.
The place also has a chilled, slightly coastal feel that makes the meal feel special.
Why it’s worth visiting:
Fresh seafood
Light, bright dining space
Perfect for lunch near the City
Great seasonal specials
- Website: Fish Market London
- Tip: Try pairing the lobster roll with their light salads — it balances the richness perfectly.
6. Hawksmoor Air Street — A Rich, Indulgent Lobster Roll
Hawksmoor might be famous for its steaks, but their lobster-based dishes are genuinely impressive. When the lobster roll appears on their seasonal menu, it’s incredibly buttery, rich, and flavourful — definitely more of a luxury treat than an everyday bite.
Why it stands out:
Premium lobster meat
Soft toasted brioche
Upscale dining experience
Perfect for date nights or special occasions
- Website: https://thehawksmoor.com
7. Bonnie Gull Seafood Shack — A True Seaside Vibe in London
Bonnie Gull started as a pop-up and quickly became a favourite among London seafood lovers. Their lobster roll isn’t just delicious — it genuinely captures the nostalgic “British seaside” feeling.
What to expect:
Hand-picked lobster meat
Light lemony mayo
A perfectly toasted, slightly sweet brioche bun
Warm, friendly service
8. The Ivy Market Grill (Covent Garden) — A Fancy Twist on the Classic
The Ivy rarely disappoints when it comes to presentation, and their occasional lobster rolls are beautifully served. Even though it’s not their signature dish, it’s a fantastic option when you want something elegant in the heart of Covent Garden.
Why you’ll enjoy it:
Stylish, slightly premium vibe
Fresh, high-quality lobster
Great for brunch or afternoon dining
Popular tourist-friendly location
- Website: https://theivymarketgrill.com
9. SeaSons London — Fresh, Clean, and Modern Seafood Concept
SeaSons has been quietly building a reputation for incredibly fresh seafood, and their lobster roll is no exception. It’s lighter, cleaner, and feels healthier compared to many buttery traditional rolls.
Highlights:
Super fresh ingredients
Mediterranean-inspired flavours
Minimalistic, modern interior
Ideal for those who prefer lighter food
10. Wright Brothers Battersea — A Local Favourite for Seafood Lovers
While Wright Brothers has multiple locations, the Battersea branch is especially popular. Their lobster rolls (when featured seasonally) are beautifully done — soft brioche, warm lobster, and a buttery, slightly citrusy dressing.
Why it’s a great pick:
Relaxed riverside vibe
Very fresh seafood
Great cocktails
Consistent quality
- Website: https://thewrightbrothers.co.uk
Final Thoughts
Finding the best lobster roll in London isn’t as simple as picking one restaurant — each spot brings its own style, flavour profile, and atmosphere. Some places focus on classic New England rolls with buttery brioche and chilled lobster, while others experiment with fusion flavours, premium ingredients, or healthier twists.
What makes London special in 2026 is that you don’t need to travel far to find a good roll. Whether you want something casual for lunch, a quick grab-and-go option, or a fancy seafood dinner, there’s a spot that fits every mood. If you’re exploring the city or planning a foodie day out, adding a lobster roll stop is always a great idea.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Are lobster rolls expensive in London?
Yes, lobster rolls in London usually cost between £15 and £35, depending on the restaurant. Premium seafood spots may charge more, while casual takeaway places offer more budget-friendly options.
2. What’s the difference between a traditional and a modern lobster roll?
A traditional lobster roll features chilled lobster meat, light lemon mayo, and a buttered brioche bun. Modern versions may include avocado, Japanese flavours, spicy mayo, or warm lobster with melted butter.
3. Do I need to book in advance for popular lobster roll spots?
For restaurants like Burger & Lobster, Hawksmoor, or Wright Brothers, booking ahead is a smart idea, especially during evenings or weekends. Casual spots and takeaway restaurants usually don’t require reservations.
4. Are there any good lobster rolls for takeaway or delivery?
Yes! Smack Lobster Roll is one of the best delivery-focused options. Many Burger & Lobster locations also offer takeaway, making it easy to enjoy lobster rolls on the go.
5. Are lobster rolls suitable for people with allergies?
Lobster rolls contain shellfish and often include gluten, dairy, and egg-based sauces, depending on the restaurant. Always check with the staff for allergy information or ask for alternative options if needed.
