Always on the quest for the perfect lobster roll, I think I found the closest thing without travelling to Maine or PEI. Luke’s Lobster opened another one of its branches at the brand new Brickell City Centre, in downtown Miami. Luke’s first opened in the East Village in 2009. It has now expanded to over 20 locations nationwide and even in Tokyo. They have succeeded in part because they bring traceable, sustainable seafood to people across the country. In fact, each location shows where their products are sourced from. But more importantly, the rolls are authentic and delicious.

When I went, the small 14 seat spot on the third floor of the mall was fully packed and the mall had just opened. I think they will outgrow this space quickly or will regularly have a lineup around the corner. They just opened the location because it is right in the center of all the new growth in Brickell and can reach many people. The place is cozy, clean and friendly. You go to the counter, place your order and they call you when its ready.

The founder, Luke Holden, used to be a lobsterman himself. He has handpicked his seafood directly from Maine to Canada. His rolls are the real deal, and better than most because he doesn’t use fillers or a ton of mayo, but instead keeps it simple with ultra-fresh, sweet, succulent meat, served cold in a warm split bun. It features ¼ pound of wild-caught Maine lobster with a touch of mayo and butter. And their secret signature seasoning. The rolls cost $17, or for $20 you get a side of coleslaw and some potato chips. The menu also includes shrimp and crab rolls, or you can get a trio of rolls. They are all good, but for me the best bet is the lobster roll. Some people say the rolls are too small, but they are filling, unless you are starving, you shouldn’t have to order two. They serve other seafood-focused dishes, like lobster tail, kale and lobster salad, and grilled cheese with crab or lobster meat. We also tried the clam chowder. It seemed to me the batch was over-thickened and a bit salty, but it was at least still chock full of clams.

Soon, they plan on serving craft beers and wines, as of now they offer small batch sodas, craft beverages, Coke and water. They will also be able to accommodate people with gluten-free buns or make the salads vegetarian. And they’ll be serving my favourite, Fireman Derek’s Key lime pie at the Miami Florida location. If all goes well they are planning on opening other locations in Florida, and the next one is going to be in Adventura!

The hours are Monday to Saturday 11-9:30pm and Sunday noon to 7pm. They can cater for you and will deliver if the order is over $200.

Luke’s has been ranked #1 by publications like Thrillist, Time Out, the CBS and the Wall Street Journal. It is exciting to have this new addition to the Miami food scene. If you are a lobster fan it is not to be missed.

The food made me hum, I will return!

Highly recommended.

Happy dining,
Shanea

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