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    The Lobster House

    3.4 (2.1k reviews)
    Closed 11:30 am - 3:00 pm, 4:30 PM - 9:00 PM
    Updated over 3 months ago

    The Lobster House Photos

    THE LOBSTER HOUSE ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Moderate noise
    Touristy
    Dogs allowed
    Good for kids

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    Steamed little neck clams
    John J.

    12 of us for dinner! Service was OK, but our server was remarkably impersonal and not as pleasant as we have always found lobster house waitstaff. Not sure why but it seems like he just didn't want to be there and we had remind him of things to bring that normally come out without us saying anything. An occasional smile would've helped. Tried the daily special, mini crab, and shrimp cake appetizer. No crust like you normally find on a crabcake. Almost tasted a little doughy. I would not order again. For entrées, the lobster was fantastic as usual. Five stars for the one, one and a half, and 2 pound lobsters

    wall art of immodest wooden maiden
    Vike S.

    1921 this local establishment began. 105 years ago. Sure, my solo dining for over $100 with tip was out of kilter with the value but there's are good reasons this institution is still here. Staff is one - a thrum of hive-like busy bee activity - they all worked hard from I could see and since this is a volume business, that is a backbone to their success. My Latino server was attentive and upbeat. Nice guy. Next - the food wasn't that bad at all. The Lobster Bisque was pleasant and the Flounder Francaise was fine - not $37 fine but hey, you're paying for location too. Plus I'm sure the fish was fresh. Shane they didn't have filet of sole. Coffee, apple pie with ice cream, and baked potato were each unremarkable - on par with diner chow. But again, it's not the Coffee House or the Baked Potato Mansion. I saw many families here and I suspect for many of those families, toddlers and elders in tow, years of their memories here with families is a valuable reason for them to go. Tradition has a place in a long term eatery. Like Sparks Steakhouse. Wait. My bad example. Like Krogs Fiske Haus in Copenhagen. I'll die childless and all my family are long gone so I'm afraid the other memorable aspects of this sprawling seafood beer hall (in appearance - not literally a beer hall) were just observations - like the bare breasted sea ship carvings on the walls - won't prompt my return. Fun fact: why they are bare-breasted: according to maritime folklore, showing an exposed breast was believed to "shame" the sea into becoming calm. It also served to appease the angry spirits of the ocean. For me, it just was a bit embarrassing to have the mammalian protuberances monitoring my feeding.

    From their seafood market - softshell crab, stuffed shrimp, calamari and clam chowder
    Elayne W.

    There's a seafood market in the front where you order fresh seafood and sit on their back patio overlooking the harbor - don't miss this! It's a quick and casual spot that's perfect to enjoy delicious and fresh seafood. We ordered the soft shell crab, stuffed shrimp, calamari and clam chowder and loved everything. The clam chowder might have been one of the best ones I've ever had with lots of clams in it. Then, there's the indoor restaurant which is a bit fancier with checkered tablecloths and warm wood interior. My group ordered the baked clams casino (large clams!), lobster bisque (thick and delicious), crabmeat au gratin, crab cakes, lobster house specialty (seafood linguine) and sautéed crabmeat. We loved how much seafood came with every dish and how quick our service was.

    Ange R.

    Definitely a go-to stop for lunch or dinner in Cape May! There's lots to choose from - raw bar, restaurant, boat bar, or pick up window. Lobster salad with fries, and the fried combo platter is what we ordered from the pick up window and our tummies were very pleased! We ate outside on the dock and enjoyed watching the boats come in. Cannot wait to go back!

    Dockside views
    Paul M.

    We went for lunch and decided to order "to go" and dine on the outside deck overlooking the fishing boats. For to-go, you order in their seafood store and they call your number out back when the food is ready. To-go dishes are reasonably priced and ordering and pick up was easy and efficient. Food was tasty and reasonably priced. We tried the clam strips platter with a baked potato which was great. The lobster salad sandwich was tasty with fries but beware, we found a few small shell pieces in the sandwich. We ordered a pitcher of Cape May IPA at the outdoor raw bar and enjoyed outdoor dining overlooking the fishing fleet. Great lunch, cold beer, and a nice atmosphere. Can't go wrong with this arrangement for a casual seafood lunch.

    Crab claws between two plates, great for carrying and keeping it fly-free
    Mike F.

    Over the years I've had my share of great getaway meals at The Lobster House in timeless Cape May. It's a tradition you want to start earlier in life, so you can one day look around and watch as a new generation starts creating those lifelong memories of lively dinners out on the peer. It gives you a whole new appreciation for it, for how it's been able to not only last and stay pretty much the same across decades, making the nostalgia hit just a bit harder. People who have aversion to crowds probably read that and think I'm insane, and I wouldn't blame you. I can't think of a time when that place isn't a mad house. It's frantic, there are multiple queues all over the place, people are shouting, fish is flying, tables are being sniped. There's always some parent yelling at their kid or in-law to get over to some table 100 yards away they just happened to see open up. You have half a dozen poor grandmas sitting at a table all alone, feeling the pressure. The pressure and eyes of every other family waiting for a table bearing down on them. So yes, for certain people, every visit would be a nightmarish hell. Like think about the introverted pescatarians, they must be completely torn on this place. Even with the prominent signage, it's easy to get disoriented in the market-style layout. One time I waited 15 minutes for a softshell crab sandwich in front of a parking validation kiosk. Just remember there are two sets of bathrooms, one near the entrance and one lesser used one in the back. That is one benefit of sitting farther down the pier and not feeling bad about it. There is no such thing as a bad seat at TLH. Eventually once I did locate my softshell crab sandwich, I enjoyed it's soft, crab-like texture. Well, enjoyed is a strong word. Let's just say that will be my first and definitely last time I ever order softshell crab. I like crab, but, while soft, I do not enjoy the texture of the shell. It's like these thin sheets of leather strips. It's probably my fault, it's not like it's called "no shell" crab, but I think maybe they overdo it with the "soft" angle. Anyways, once I pivoted to a classic burger, all was well again. And I got more of those bangin' thick-cut steak fries. On this particular visit my two companions got an assortment of crab claws, fried calamari, clams casino, and the rest of my softshell crab, so yeah, everyone did pretty well for themselves. Also snagged a prime table right in the thick of things, on the pier in front of The Schooner, which doubles as a sailing vessel and outdoor cocktail lounge. Just another fine summer memory to look back fondly on.

    The bar area where we waited til the clock struck 430pm.
    Suzy B.

    We had such a nice dinner, I had to update my review. We come to Lobster House from time-to-time throughout the year. We figured we would get in an off-season dinner before the crowds come and that we did! We arrived just before they opened at 415 and hung out at the bar for a few minutes. Dinner is served at 430pm! The bar is open, so you can get drinks while you wait if you like. There is a full service bar and you can order from a plentiful wine and spirits menu. Our awesome server for our early dinner was Trisha, and she could not have been more hospitable! She was very personable, attentive and provided excellent service! She was just a delight. I ordered the Flounder special which was delicious - - each element in the dinner was great - and you can see all my coordinating photos. The dinner comes with a nice fresh -chilled salad and of course, the yummy hot, fresh onion bread! The flounder was cooked to perfection and those Fried String Beans, kinda like french fries were really good and very creative. They came with a nice "Petal Sauce" that is going to have me coming back again! Thank you, Trisha and Lobster House for a great pre-season dinner. It's nice to have the whole restaurant to yourself without the crowds! Get there before Memorial Day weekend for a nice treat! There's also an incredible fresh fish market attached where you can get anything and everything from a fish market you ever dreamed about. They also have a decadent area with so many drool-worthy desserts that you can take out along with your seafood. All in all, Lobster House is a great local favorite that has consistently great seafood and service.

    Baked potato
    Scott Z.

    We felt the food at The Lobster House in Cape May, NJ was a very good value and the service we received was very good. We would have had to pay at least 30% more for the same meal back home in Metro Atlanta, GA. We went at 5:30 pm on a Saturday and we were number 57 on the waiting list. We were seated in about 45 minutes. My wife and I each started with an escargot appetizer. I also had a bowl of snapper soup with Sherry. This was followed with a 3 lb steamed lobster. My wife had the Lobster House special which is linguine with lobster tail, scallops, and shrimp. Each entree comes with a salad and at least 1 side. I had a baked potato and stewed tomatos. My wife had a zucchini blend. We both had a diet coke for our beverage plus water. I would definitely go back.

    Direct waterfront dining  Right on Cape May harbor

    I have dined at the LH hundreds of times with memories of my family The Lobster House never disappoints The fish market has the freshest and widest selection of succulent seafood to take home The take out where you can dine dockside is Cape Mays best kept secret and the prices are incredibly reasonable Julie our back clearing the tables is friendly hard working and a true asset to your Restaurant Do yourself a favor and next time in Cape go directly to the LH and enjoy the best scallops crabs fish this side of the Mississippi

    Fishing ships
    Carrie H.

    The spice is old-school and has been here a very long time. There is a ton of parking, and the restaurant has an incredible view. I might come back just for the views and the feel of the place. Take a moment to walk around and look at all the old pictures to see the history and the massive boats outside of the lobster house. This place is enormous, so I doubt there is ever a wait, but if so, the staff is friendly and helpful. We were here for lunch and began with six salt-bay oysters, which were tasty. We kept looking for a lobster roll, but they only had lobster salad, so we got that because I was here for a lobster roll. Lobster salad was OK, but, as expected, there was too much other stuff and not enough lobster. I should've looked before we picked this place, but I just assumed that they would have the regular lobster roll. I got French fries and a side of their creamy Caesar because I like to dip my fries.

    Doesn't need words.
    Happy T.

    Emma the bartender on the schooner was having fun with the patrons and not attending the bar very well. She should spend more time addressing ALL patrons rather than giving service to the few. On a positive note, the hamburger and other food was good. Also, have to assume dogs are allowed on the boat with diners and also in the raw bar. Don't know the house policy. More importantly, why no barrier to keep out the sea gulls from eating at the tables. A few things to consider if this place is your choice for a meal. And don't forget to tip the restroom valets.

    blue moon draft
    Angela K.

    The Lobster House used to be a solid choice but recently the food was inedible. The soft shell crab and other dishes were fishy and hard to eat. The service has remained consistent and the views are great but the food is disappointing. I hope they turn around because it was a great Cape May eatery!

    Crab soup from the raw bar
    Lexie K.

    We've been coming here for well over 30 years and the food has been consistently good the whole time. We do take out and eat in the back, which is much better than the fancy dining in my opinion It's such a nice relaxing summer night to sit on the back door enjoying your seafood meal watching boats come and go. The prices are reasonable, considering how expensive everywhere else is these days. They have not jacked their prices up like most other restaurants have lately. The crab bisque soup from the raw bars to die for. It doesn't matter how hot it is in the summertime, I will always get a cup of soup to start my meal. They sell quarts of it to go in the takeout section of the seafood area. The broiled salmon is always cooked to perfection. Tender and juicy meat with a great flavor. The lobster is always very tender and juicy as well. The scallops were buttery melt in your mouth. Pretty good selection of beer, wine, and other alcohol.

    My lobster  bisque

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    1 month ago

    Been here many times, it's one of those places to eat at at least a few times if in Cape May regularly. Consistent quality, great view.

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    Overall the food was good, however the oyster stew was terrible, so salty I couldn't finish it, never again.

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    The Lobster House Reviews in Other Languages

    Ask the Community - The Lobster House

    How is the lobster bisque?

    Really good

    What is the current price for the broiled lobster tail?

    Sorry, I would not have any idea as we did not order lobster. I might suggest you contact the restaurant directly.

    What are the prices for some of the dinner entrees? Going with a party of 7 and wondering what this is going to cost. Menu doesn't list prices for anything.

    If eating inside, entrees are in the thirties on average. Includes a lot of food. Outside is a different menu.

    Do u have.blue crabs in stock?

    They had them at the raw bar two weeks ago. I recommend the jumbo - very meaty and flavorful!!!

    Do they take reservations for a party of 8?

    No reservations, and no call ahead seating. We went on a weeknight in July, with a party of 9. We were given an hour and half wait time when we joined the list. Ended being just about an hour wait. We sent one person ahead to get on the list,… 

    Is the Schooner still open?

    Yes, usually until early November. It typically closes when the weather begins to get cold.

    Is there a kids menu?

    No this not a kids menu for the kids but it a great place

    I know they are always crowded, but does anyone know if Saturday is less crowded than Friday?

    Personally from an employees point of view, Friday is the least busy day! I'm not sure if that's normally the day people head home from their weekly rentals but it always turns out to be the least busiest!

    Is there a picture of the white wine list? I went there with my gf recently and she had a glass of the Pinot Grigio and loved it but can't remember the name.

    Are they really closed?

    Not that I know of...I just ate there this past weekend! Excellent food! Their hours may have… 

    Is restaurant pet friendly?

    The outdoor part is

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    Cape May Fish Market

    Cape May Fish Market

    3.5
    (447 reviews)
    1.5 mi
    $$

    We stopped in this restaurant for some seafood while shopping in the Cape May Washington street…read moremall Our server Edwin was amazing. Very attentive with an infectious smile. He took great care of us. We loved all our food. The lobster roll was my favorite. I have some left over for dinner. Can't wait to return to try something else

    I wasn't planning on reviews while on my vacation, but Hubs asked for this one. While there are…read moreseveral places in Cape May to get a Lobster Roll, we chose Cape May Fish Market because it had lots of seating indoors & out. It was quite chilly while we visited Cape May so we really wanted to sit inside. First, the positive: The place is clean and the staff is nice. The Lobster Roll is delicious and the Shrimp Cesar Salad tasted good, but this is also where it goes bad. It is a huge salad and only had 3 shrimp. The cost of the salad is the same as the Lobster Roll. There is no way a salad should cost 26.99 and only have 3 shrimp. A pound of shrimp market value is approximately $25.99 depending on size & location. When it was expressed to our server, she quoted market price increases and that we could order more shrimp at an upcharge. If market price for shrimp is that bad, take it off the menu or offer alternatives like adding chicken that won't result in an upcharge or advise your customers upon ordering that they'd only get 3 shrimp. Hubs probably would have ordered something else. It's Cape May Fish Market so they should be upfront about their seafood. I didn't really care for the fact that we asked about it and were brushed off. While we'll definitely return to Cape May, we may not return here. .

    Photos
    Inside
    Inside
    Cape May Fish Market
    Cape May Fish Market

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    Hooked Up Seafood

    Hooked Up Seafood

    4.4
    (220 reviews)
    4.6 mi
    $$

    Hooked Up Seafood is a must stop for the freshest most delicious seafood served on picnic tables…read moredockside. I ordered a yellow fin sandwich, cooked medium rare, which was one of the featured fresh catch fish of the day. Without a doubt this this was probably the best seared yellowfin tuna I've ever eaten. The sear was perfect, the yellowfin was perfectly seasoned and the size was generous. The flavor and texture were perfect as well. I decided to eat it off the bread because I didn't want the the roll to mask the fresh caught yellowfin flavor. The sandwich was served with a heaping amount of tasty and crunchy housemaid chips. We ate while watching the sunset over the water. Wish we lived nearby, because we'd become regulars if we did. Well done Hooked Up!!

    What an amazing end to our trip. Loved that there was outdoor seating. You kind of just get in…read morewhere you fit in. Food is made to order and workers are absolutely the kindest. A young woman noticed my table was dirty, she came over to clean it and even offered to bring crayons and a coloring page for my toddler. Not only is the serving phenomenal but the food is as well. We had the chowder, shrimp and clams as starters. Lighthouse blush wine. My husband had blackened sword fish and I had the fish tacos. Everything was delicious. We even ordered some shirts to take back home. We will definitely make this a staple location when we are in the area. 10/10. It's rare to find good food and great service these days. I almost want to gatekeep but they deserve all of the recognition.

    Photos
    Exterior
    Exterior
    Tuna tacos - a customer favorite!
    Tuna tacos - a customer favorite!
    Hooked Up Seafood

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    The Lobster House - seafoodmarkets - Updated July 2026

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