Summer in CT: Lobster Landing
Summer in CT means trips to the shoreline, and stopping for some delicious seafood is a must. One of my favorite seafood staples is Lobster Landing in Clinton, CT. At first glance, it looks like an outdated fisherman’s shack, but it’s so much more than that. Lobster Landing is best known for its hot buttered lobster rolls, and the buzz is well deserved.
Their rolls are loaded with fresh lobster meat that’s served in a perfectly toasted bun. For $18.50 you get what you pay for, they do not skimp on the lobster. It’s coated in just the right amount of hot butter, which keeps the bread from getting soggy and mushy.
The menu is simple, and in addition to the lobster rolls, it includes, hot dogs offered plain or with cheese & sauerkraut, sweet Italian sausage on a roll with peppers & onions, New England clam chowder, coleslaw, chips, and gelato. They also offer gluten-free rolls upon request and make a point of avoiding cross-contamination by grilling them in a separate area. For drinks, they offer soda, iced tea, lemonade, and water. They don’t serve alcohol, but it’s BYOB!
It can get bustling, especially on a gorgeous summer day during lunchtime, but the service moves fast, and the staff is extremely friendly and accommodating. Besides the delicious lobster rolls, the seating area is one of the best parts about Lobster Landing. Nestled right along the water, you’ll get to watch all the boats pass by in the marina as you enjoy your meal. They offer a 40-seat deck, picnic tables, and shaded seating inside the tent, which allows them to extend their season to the end of December.
Your trip to Lobster Landing isn’t complete without a friendly interaction with owner Enea Bacci, whos usually handling the parking lot. He’s so down-to-earth and has a great sense of humor. When I asked him how many lobster rolls they sell in a season, he answered with a laugh, “I’m not telling you!”
Enea and his wife Cathie first opened Lobster Landing in 1995. At first, it was just a seafood market, but then in 2001 they added a small food menu, and it’s been a success ever since. They still offer live lobster, steamers, oysters, and mussels, but their delicious lobster rolls are what brings the majority of their business.
If you’ve heard about Lobster Landing, but still have yet to try it, add it to your summer bucket list. You’ll finally get to taste and experience why it’s one of the best seafood shacks in our state.
