Best: Clam Chowder, Lobster Roll
851 Veterans Blvd, Redwood City CA 94063
(650) 366-2400
Parking: in parking lot
Hours: Open daily 11am until they stop making money
http://www.oplobster.com/
Last Visited: May 9, 2010 (2016 review)
Food: 5 stars
Atmosphere: 3 to 4 stars
Service: 4 stars
Price: $$ to $$$$
I first heard about Old Port Lobster Shack through Michael when he blogged about stopping in before leaving the Golden State. Knowing that Michael is a foodie with similar tastes as me gave it automatic credibility, but what got me was the photo of that awesome lobster roll. Since it's more than an hour away from where I'm based, I try to go here whenever I'm near the airport - it's gotten to the point that I try to schedule appointments such that I will be in Redwood City near meal time in order to create the opportunity to come enjoy one of their lobster rolls.
When driving through this area, Old Port can be easy to miss, but look for a large white freight truck with their lobster logo in red. Sometimes it's parked in the street, and other times, it's in their parking lot. It's probably a good thing that I don't live close - my wallet would be empty and my cholesterol probably high.
The options of fresh seafood is extensive, but considering that Russell Deutsch was formally in the lobster exporting business before relocating to California, you can bet that the lobster is going to be good.
The red and white checkered tablecloths on lacquered picnic benches, the lobster tank in the rear, the lighthouse decorations all help you feel like you're in for something special and an authentic taste of the East Coast. To order, you line up in front of the counter and sometimes out the door, and then you receive a number which you place at your table once seated.- New England Clam "Chowdah" - Served in an Old Port Lobster cup (available for purchase on their website), this large amount of creamy goodness contains a lot of clams. The table has a bucket full of oyster crackers ready for your delight, so eat away. It's on my list of best clam chowder in the Bay Area. Cup $5.75, Bowl $8
- Fried Oysters - One of many Shacketizers, this basket of oysters, which is served with cocktail sauce and tartar sauce, looks like it might not be as good as everything else, but to my surprise, these little guys are quite meaty. They're smaller than what you would see at Asian restaurants, but they are amazingly fresh and juicy, and they serve you a lot. Great! $12.75
- Lobstah Louie Salad - If I recally correctly, the one shown in this photo is a half size. Romaine leaves are served with lobster pieces, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, a hard boiled egg, and louie dressing. Two large wedges of lemon garnish the dish. It's definitely enough to serve two or even three if you're looking for a starter, but also enough for a meal for one. All the veggies were very fresh. Another great dish. Full $19.75, Half $15.75
- Mini Lobster Cakes with Chipotle Mayo - Four lobster cakes are cooked until golden brown and served on a bed of spring mix along with a couple wedges of lemon. They're good, but given the choice, I would opt for the lobster roll. This might be a good alternative for those whom are trying to reduce carb intake though. The chipotle mayo is just a touch spicy for extra flavor. $14.75
- Maine Lobster Roll - Oh, this is the absolute best thing on their menu. Lobster is lightly tossed in Hellman's Mayo along with green onions, salt and pepper. This is heaven on a toasted bun. It's served with a side of crispy fries and coleslaw. While the coleslaw is crunchy and refreshing and the fries, made with Kennebec potatoes, are crispy and tastes like a potato should, they pale in comparison to the luscious tender lobster meat that is so succulent. The photo below of the Naked Roll doesn't even begin to capture the essence of this outstanding treat. $18.75, Double Play (2 rolls) shown here $35
- Naked Lobster Roll - Lobster meat is served on a roll with a side of mayo and drawn butter. Much like the Maine version above, but now you have control over the mayo and if you prefer drawn butter, now you have the option. Between the two, I like the Maine Roll better. $18.75
- Lobster Mac and Cheese - I couldn't wait to eat it, so a portion of this is already gone if you're looking at the picture. A velvety smooth cheese sauce surrounds these shells and the lobster meat is just as good as that found in the rolls. Super fresh lobster and al dente pasta with cheese, how could you go wrong. Delicious. Market Rate
For me, it is worth the drive to get to Old Port because you know you're in for a wonderful meal. If the items described above aren't enough, they offer whole lobsters, sandwiches, beer battered coconut shrimp, fried oysters, lobster bisque, BBQ, and so much more.
Also, Old Port also frequently offers a coupon available online through third party sites to save $10 off of a purchase of $50. When two or more or dining, be sure to look for the coupon - it's easy to rack up a bill for $50. During peak hours, they place gets pretty full, especially on weekends, and it's no wonder why. On weekdays, they also have a happy hour where you can get appetizers at a discount.
It's one of the few places that I've given a five star food ranking, so if you're in the area, I highly encourage you to give it a try!
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