London, the culinary capital of the world, is a city that never fails to impress when it comes to its diverse and vibrant food scene. From traditional British fare to international cuisine, London has something to offer for every palate. And when it comes to indulging in a luxurious and decadent treat, few options are as tantalizing as a plate of succulent, buttery lobster. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself to a night out, a lobster dinner in London is an experience you won’t soon forget.
But with so many restaurants to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide where to go for the best lobster in London. That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide, highlighting the top spots to indulge in this delicious and indulgent delicacy. From high-end establishments to more casual eateries, we’ll take you on a culinary journey across the city to discover the best places to eat lobster in London.
The Best Lobster Restaurants in London
London is home to a wide range of restaurants that serve lobster, each with its own unique twist and flair. From traditional British pubs to upscale fine dining establishments, there’s something for everyone. Here are some of the best lobster restaurants in London:
The Delaunay
Located in the heart of Covent Garden, The Delaunay is a beautifully designed restaurant that serves up a range of international dishes, including a delicious lobster thermidor. This classic dish is cooked to perfection, with a rich and creamy sauce that complements the tender lobster perfectly.
The Ivy
This iconic London restaurant has been a favorite among celebrities and locals alike for decades, and its lobster dish is a must-try. The Ivy’s lobster thermidor is cooked to perfection, with a crispy crust giving way to a tender and juicy interior. It’s served with a side of garlic butter and lemon, making it the perfect accompaniment to a glass of wine.
The Goring Dining Room
This luxurious hotel restaurant is located in the heart of Belgravia and offers a range of fine dining options, including a delicious lobster dish. The Goring Dining Room’s lobster is cooked to perfection, with a delicate flavor and tender texture. It’s served with a side of lemon butter and herbs, making it the perfect accompaniment to a glass of wine.
The Oyster Shed
This casual, no-frills restaurant is located in the heart of Borough Market and offers a range of fresh seafood options, including lobster. The Oyster Shed’s lobster is cooked to perfection, with a crispy crust giving way to a tender and juicy interior. It’s served with a side of lemon butter and herbs, making it the perfect accompaniment to a glass of wine.
The Fish & Chip Shop
This casual, family-run restaurant is located in the heart of Notting Hill and offers a range of traditional British dishes, including fish and chips and lobster. The Fish & Chip Shop’s lobster is cooked to perfection, with a crispy crust giving way to a tender and juicy interior. It’s served with a side of mushy peas and tartar sauce, making it the perfect accompaniment to a glass of beer.
Lobster Markets and Stalls
While many Londoners opt for a sit-down meal at a restaurant, there’s also a range of markets and stalls where you can buy fresh lobster to take home and cook yourself. Here are some of the best places to find lobster in London:
Borough Market
This bustling market in Southwark is one of the largest and most famous in the city, and it’s a great place to find fresh lobster. You’ll find a range of stalls selling everything from live lobsters to cooked and prepared dishes. Be sure to check out the stalls selling fresh seafood, as they often have a range of lobster options available. (See Also: Where to Eat in Le Marais Paris? Hidden Gems Revealed)
Billingsgate Market
This historic market in the heart of the city has been in operation since the 16th century, and it’s a great place to find fresh seafood, including lobster. You’ll find a range of stalls selling everything from live lobsters to cooked and prepared dishes. Be sure to check out the stalls selling fresh seafood, as they often have a range of lobster options available.
The Fisherman’s Market
This market in the heart of the city is located near the famous Billingsgate Market, and it’s a great place to find fresh seafood, including lobster. You’ll find a range of stalls selling everything from live lobsters to cooked and prepared dishes. Be sure to check out the stalls selling fresh seafood, as they often have a range of lobster options available.
The Borough Market Food Hall
This food hall in the heart of Borough Market is a great place to find a range of fresh seafood options, including lobster. You’ll find a range of stalls selling everything from live lobsters to cooked and prepared dishes. Be sure to check out the stalls selling fresh seafood, as they often have a range of lobster options available.
Lobster at Home
If you can’t make it to one of London’s many restaurants or markets, you can still enjoy lobster at home. Here are some tips for cooking lobster at home:
Choosing the Right Lobster
The first step in cooking lobster at home is to choose the right lobster. Here are some tips to help you make the right choice:
- Look for live lobsters with bright, shiny shells and no signs of damage or decay.
- Choose lobsters that are the right size for your needs – a good rule of thumb is to look for lobsters that weigh between 1-2 pounds.
- Avoid lobsters that have been frozen, as this can affect the texture and flavor of the meat.
- Consider the type of lobster you want to cook – there are many different species, including American, European, and Caribbean lobsters, each with its own unique flavor and texture.
Cooking Methods
Once you’ve chosen the right lobster, it’s time to cook it. Here are some popular cooking methods for lobster:
Boiling
Boiling is a classic method for cooking lobster, and it’s easy to do at home. Here’s how: (See Also: Where to Eat in Mevagissey? Top Hidden Gems)
Fill a large pot with enough water to cover the lobster, and add a tablespoon of salt and a tablespoon of white wine. Bring the water to a boil, then carefully place the lobster in the pot. Cover the pot with a lid and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the lobster is cooked through. Remove the lobster from the pot and let it cool before serving.
Steaming
Steaming is another popular method for cooking lobster, and it’s a great way to preserve the delicate flavor and texture of the meat. Here’s how:
Fill a large pot with enough water to cover the lobster, and add a tablespoon of salt and a tablespoon of white wine. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Place the lobster in a steamer basket and steam for 5-7 minutes, or until the lobster is cooked through. Remove the lobster from the pot and let it cool before serving.
Grilling
Grilling is a great way to add a smoky flavor to your lobster, and it’s a fun and easy way to cook it at home. Here’s how:
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the lobster on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the lobster is cooked through. Remove the lobster from the grill and let it cool before serving.
Baking
Baking is a great way to cook lobster at home, and it’s a low-maintenance method that’s easy to use. Here’s how:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the lobster on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and drizzle with a little bit of butter and lemon juice. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the lobster is cooked through. Remove the lobster from the oven and let it cool before serving. (See Also: Where to Eat in Ayutthaya? Best Local Spots)
Conclusion
London is a city that’s full of culinary delights, and lobster is one of the most decadent and indulgent treats you can find. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious dining experience at a high-end restaurant or a casual meal at a market or stall, there’s something for everyone in this city. And with these tips and tricks for cooking lobster at home, you can enjoy this delicious and indulgent delicacy whenever you want.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best way to cook lobster?
A: The best way to cook lobster is a matter of personal preference, but some popular methods include boiling, steaming, grilling, and baking. Each method has its own unique benefits and drawbacks, so it’s worth trying out a few different methods to see which one you like best.
Q: How do I know if my lobster is cooked?
A: There are a few ways to tell if your lobster is cooked. One method is to check the color – cooked lobster should be bright red and opaque, while uncooked lobster will be grayish-blue and translucent. Another method is to check the texture – cooked lobster should be firm and springy, while uncooked lobster will be soft and squishy. You can also use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the lobster – it should be at least 145°F (63°C) to be safe to eat.
Q: Can I eat lobster if I have a shellfish allergy?
A: If you have a shellfish allergy, it’s generally not recommended to eat lobster or any other type of shellfish. Shellfish allergies are typically caused by an allergic reaction to a protein called tropomyosin, which is found in the muscles of shellfish. If you have a shellfish allergy, it’s important to avoid consuming any type of shellfish, including lobster, to avoid a severe allergic reaction. If you’re unsure whether you have a shellfish allergy, it’s best to consult with a healthcare professional for advice.
Q: Is lobster expensive?
A: Yes, lobster is generally considered to be a luxury food item and can be quite expensive. The cost of lobster can vary depending on the type, size, and quality of the lobster, as well as the location and type of restaurant or market where you purchase it. On average, a pound of fresh lobster can cost anywhere from $20 to $50 or more, depending on the quality and type of lobster. If you’re looking for a more affordable option, you may be able to find frozen or canned lobster at a lower price point.