Lobster rolls are incredibly popular all over the Cape, and with good reason, as the region is home to some of the country’s best. Every town and village on Cape Cod has local eateries with distinctive takes on this iconic sandwich, giving you chances to try different variations throughout your visit.
For instance, you’ll find lobster rolls on the menu at countless spots in Dennis, MA. As a result, creating a list of the five best is a bit of a challenge.
A few sandwiches stand out from the bunch, though, so here’s a look at the top five lobster rolls in Dennis, Massachusetts.
1) Sesuit Harbor Cafe
Many seafood spots in Dennis are off the beaten path, and the Sesuit Harbor Cafe is no different. This small, family-owned shack sits near the mouth of Sesuit Harbor, and it’s unlikely you’d happen across it unless you’re visiting a marina or taking a cruise into Cape Cod Bay.
However, if you do visit Sesuit Harbor Cafe, you’ll be blown away by the seafood selection. The restaurant has a raw bar, multiple fried seafood options, and, of course, a legendary lobster roll.
The lobster roll at Sesuit Harbor Cafe comes on a grilled hot dog bun with lettuce and tomato and is served with fries and homemade coleslaw. The sandwich is delicious, and as a bonus, you can enjoy it on a boat if you sign up for a cruise on the S.S. Lobster Roll.
2) The Sailing Cow
Dennis Port is home to The Sailing Cow, an oceanfront spot overlooking Glendon Road Beach. This restaurant sits in a brick building, features indoor and outdoor dining, and frequently has live music.
The Sailing Cow has a raw bar, multiple fried seafood dishes, and a diverse burger menu, but its lobster roll is what brings locals and visitors back year after year.
The lobster roll is available both hot and cold and comes on a roll with lettuce and coleslaw and fries on the side. It’s a large sandwich, so bring your appetite if you visit The Sailing Cow in Dennis Port, MA.
3) Red Cottage Restaurant
The Red Cottage Restaurant is a 50s-style diner that, as luck would have it, was established in 1951. This venue’s period decor makes it feel like you’ve gone through a time warp, and its hidden location means you’ll have to actively track it down.
You see, the restaurant sits in a residential neighborhood on Bass River Road, but it isn’t far from the Patriot Square Shopping Center in South Dennis. You can find it; you just might have to search for a while.
You’ll encounter a little bit of everything on the menu at the Red Cottage, as they’re open for breakfast and lunch and have a kid’s menu, too.
The lobster roll at the Red Cottage comes on a hot dog roll with fries and cranberry coleslaw. It’s a local favorite, and enjoying it in the atmosphere that the Red Cottage creates makes it even more special.
4) Captain Frosty’s Fish & Chips
Captain Frosty’s Fish & Chips is a popular restaurant with a convenient Main Street location in Dennis village. The venue has indoor and outdoor dining and a great dessert menu, but its lobster roll is the most sought-after item on the menu.
The lobster roll at Captain Frosty’s comes on a grilled bun and is lightly dressed. You can also opt for a lobster roll plate, which comes with fries, coleslaw, and two clam cakes.
Captain Frosty’s is one of Dennis village’s top restaurants, and you’ll see why once you give their lobster roll a shot.
5) The Marshside
East Dennis is home to The Marshside, a family-friendly establishment with scenic views over Sesuit Creek and its surrounding marshland. The venue is a little more upscale than other restaurants on this list but is far from pretentious and a great spot to stop for lunch or dinner with the family.
The menu at The Marshside features soups, salads, burgers, seafood, steak, chicken, and, of course, sandwiches like the lobster roll.
The Marshside’s lobster roll comes with fries and is served on a brioche bun. You can choose between four or six ounces of lobster meat and are sure to enjoy The Marshside’s unique lobster roll dressing.
Lunch or Dinner on the Cape
You’ll surely want to try some Cape Cod cuisine while exploring the region, and the lobster roll is a must-try. These restaurants in Dennis all have a unique take on this iconic New England sandwich, and all but the Red Cottage are open for lunch and dinner, so you can stop by anytime during your travels.
Make sure you enjoy the food when you venture away from your Cape Cod vacation rental and discover the cuisine this wonderful part of the country has to offer.
