East Coast meets West Coast this month as chilled New England-style lobster rolls arrive in Newport Beach. Luke’s Lobster is opening its first Orange County location on Balboa Island.
Founded in 2009 by third-generation lobsterman Luke Holden, the lobster roll chain noted for its signature crustacean rolls. Each one features a toasted, buttered, split-top bun generously filled with chilled lobster, a light swipe of mayonnaise and a drizzle of lemon butter, all topped with a sprinkle of their house seasoning blend.
Other menu items will include such Neptunian fare as clam chowder, fresh lobster, crab and shrimp rolls.
While the exact date of opening has yet to be finalized, a spokesperson for the company says Luke’s hopes to open Wednesday, Aug. 20. Luke’s Newport Beach location will offer counter service, ideal for grab-and-go fare (especially at the beach).
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The founder’s background in lobster started in his youth when he’d haul traps alongside his father, Jeff Holden, who was reportedly Maine’s first licensed lobster processor. Luke, alongside Ben Conniff, opened the first Luke’s Lobster in New York City’s East Village in 2009, which was followed by their own seafood purchasing and production business in Saco, Maine in 2013. The company has since swelled to over 30 locations across the U.S. and internationally.
Luke’s Lobster is a certified B Corp company, a designation awarded by nonprofit outfit B Lab, which denotes a for-profit company’s commitment to social and environmental responsibility.
Open daily from 11 a.m. until 8 p.m. for lunch and dinner.
Find it: 329 Marine Ave., Newport Beach