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Tides Restaurant & Pub

Tides / Photo by Elise Donoghue

North Shore lobster rolls have come a long way from the gloppy stalwarts of seaside dining. Purists can do no better than the roll at the Tides—a classic hot dog bun overflowing with huge chunks of fresh lobster and a side of drawn butter. No mayo, no celery—so simple, so perfect. Enjoy it on the restaurant’s back deck, overlooking the beach, but don’t turn your back or the gulls will swipe your meal!

2B Wilson Rd., Nahant, 781-593-7500, tidesnahant.com

 

Brodie’s Seaport

Brodie’s dresses things up a bit—fresh lumps of sweet meat, gently tossed with house-made tarragon mayo are served on sturdy brioche to support the generous filling. Dished up with a side of steak fries, it’s a hearty meal.

215 Derby St., Salem, 978-594-8490, brodiesseaport.com

 

Longboards Café & Bar

Brioche is also the bread of choice down the street from Brodie’s at Longboards Café & Bar. Fresh lobster is lightly coated with mayo, lemon, salt and pepper, giving the sandwich a bit of a bite. In hip Longboards style, the traditional roll is accompanied by unusual sides; house-made giardiniera—an addictive Italian pickled vegetable mix—replaces the slaw, and crisp pita chips stand in for fries. Fresh, light, and delicious—pair it with a selection from their carefully curated beer menu for a perfect summer meal.

72 Wharf St., Salem, 978- 745-6659, longboardscafe.com

 

READERS’ CHOICE

Woodman’s of Essex

121 Main St., Essex, 978-768-6057, woodmans.com