Lobster Rolls are King in New England

Few things say summertime like the lobster roll. For those raised in Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Maine, succulent lobster meat on soft rolls by the coast is what pastime memories are made of. If you've spent time visiting the New England coast during the summer months, you know this sandwich reigns supreme.

The first documented appearance of the lobster roll was in a restaurant in Milton, Connecticut named Perry's. As the story goes, in the 1920s, Harry, the proprietor, invented the portable sandwich for a traveling liquor salesman who asked him for a takeaway hot grilled lobster sandwich. Being an innovative sort, Harry quickly crafted the sandwich as requested and served it on white bread. The dish then underwent a few improvements, including a switch to a submarine-style sandwich roll and a sliced v-shaped wedge in the top of the bread to nestle the lobster. Once perfected, it went on the menu.

But before this fancy restaurant-version of the lobster roll, coastal fishermen in Canada ate humble versions of lobster sandwiches for nourishment while at sea as did fishermen on the northeast coast. It wasn't until the last 50 years or so that the lobster roll came into its own as a delicacy with a variety of preparations and claims to its origins. 

What's in an authentic lobster roll?

Of course, there's a debate as to what makes a lobster roll a lobster roll. If you're searching for the original New England version, look no further than the dish which originated in Connecticut. This type of lobster roll is served with hot lobster meat (typically buttered or served with a side of butter) on a toasted, buttered roll. With this style lobster roll, the meat is the real star of the dish. Those who prefer the Connecticut-style believe there's no need to add anything other than butter to the delicious lobster meat. 

The Maine lobster roll, which has become increasingly popular, is referred to by Connecticut-style lovers as the "lobster salad roll." A typical Maine-style roll is served with cold lobster meat mixed with mayonnaise, tarragon, and chives or celery before being added to the roll. 

Up and down the New England coast, you'll find seafood shacks and upscale restaurants serving fresh-from-the-ocean lobster rolls. What you won't find is any establishment that claims to sell the very best of both versions. It's one or the other, New England or Maine. Pick your side and enjoy your meal. If you're a lobster lover,  you can't go wrong, and you can always choose a different style the next time you get a craving for this delicious bite.