It might not be summer, but we've been hearing a lot about lobster lately. While now is the prime time for plump oysters--here's the oyster guide we offered when the season opened in November--we've had some locals ask where they can find lobster without having to dress up and over-spend on those sought after crustaceans. So, here are some casual places with mostly affordable dishes to satisfy your lobster craving. Fair warning: They are not intended for lobster purists who scoff at the mention of drawn butter. But they are good. Save the shell peeling for crawfish season and dig into some lobster now. As always, let us know if we missed a spot.
Even though truffle oil bugs the hell out of some food lovers, we can vouch for its perfectly acceptable use in the Lobster-ita at Boheme. Fresh basil, large chunks of lobster and mozzarella all on a lavash bread (Armenian flatbread) make for an addictive favorite.
It doesn't get any more casual than this Chinatown standby. Some locals go here for the duck, but it's the ultra-affordable ginger-and-onion lobster that's become popular as of late. Two will only run you about $18.
With their second location conveniently on Shepherd near Richmond, this is the place to go for a more authentic lobster roll. The interior is kitschy, filled with New England knick-knacks, it's a fun place to head for lightly mayo-dressed chunks of lobster in a toasted roll.
The sweetness of the meat isn't lost to the cheesy noodles, and the miso flavor enhances the ultimate comfort food dish at Kata. They don't skimp on the lobster, either.
This Chinatown spot recently started selling the $18 lobster special, and became instantly popular. Head here and order the Alison Cook-recommended lobster tossed with beer and black pepper. Have it served over fried rice with crab for an ultra filling dish.
This is admittedly not a casual place for dinner, but you can head here for a a more casual dining experience at happy hour. Order the lobster corn dogs for a delicious steal. Little croquettes on a stick are rooted into a wooden cube for dramatic presentation, and are served with a lemon chardonnay aoili. They will only set you back about $5 if you get there before 7 on weekday.
It's just a seasonal off-the-menu option here, but when you can, make sure to catch the lobster ravioli. While many places offer this dish, it's nice to head to Patrenella's in casual clothes and order a decadent, authentically Italian lobster-stuffed order of ravioli.
Head to this Houston classic and opt for the ginger and onion sauteed lobster. This place, like several Chinatown spots, also offers a great $18-19 option.
Your first thought might be "fine dining" when you consider recently opened Caracol--and it is-- but head here for lunch or dinner in casual attire and you won't feel uncomfortable. Plus, it meets the Texan map criteria of having a Mexican tortilla-and-something option. A dish of lobster tail served with rice, beans and flour tortillas isn't uncommon in coastal Mexican towns, and it's nice to have as a regular option in Houston.
The shrimp and Gouda flatbread always steals the lobster spotlight, but it's the red beet risotto served with a lobster tail that we've ordered more than once. (Just remember, it's casual but don't take kids after 7...)
Even though truffle oil bugs the hell out of some food lovers, we can vouch for its perfectly acceptable use in the Lobster-ita at Boheme. Fresh basil, large chunks of lobster and mozzarella all on a lavash bread (Armenian flatbread) make for an addictive favorite.
It doesn't get any more casual than this Chinatown standby. Some locals go here for the duck, but it's the ultra-affordable ginger-and-onion lobster that's become popular as of late. Two will only run you about $18.
With their second location conveniently on Shepherd near Richmond, this is the place to go for a more authentic lobster roll. The interior is kitschy, filled with New England knick-knacks, it's a fun place to head for lightly mayo-dressed chunks of lobster in a toasted roll.
The sweetness of the meat isn't lost to the cheesy noodles, and the miso flavor enhances the ultimate comfort food dish at Kata. They don't skimp on the lobster, either.
This Chinatown spot recently started selling the $18 lobster special, and became instantly popular. Head here and order the Alison Cook-recommended lobster tossed with beer and black pepper. Have it served over fried rice with crab for an ultra filling dish.
This is admittedly not a casual place for dinner, but you can head here for a a more casual dining experience at happy hour. Order the lobster corn dogs for a delicious steal. Little croquettes on a stick are rooted into a wooden cube for dramatic presentation, and are served with a lemon chardonnay aoili. They will only set you back about $5 if you get there before 7 on weekday.
It's just a seasonal off-the-menu option here, but when you can, make sure to catch the lobster ravioli. While many places offer this dish, it's nice to head to Patrenella's in casual clothes and order a decadent, authentically Italian lobster-stuffed order of ravioli.
Head to this Houston classic and opt for the ginger and onion sauteed lobster. This place, like several Chinatown spots, also offers a great $18-19 option.
Your first thought might be "fine dining" when you consider recently opened Caracol--and it is-- but head here for lunch or dinner in casual attire and you won't feel uncomfortable. Plus, it meets the Texan map criteria of having a Mexican tortilla-and-something option. A dish of lobster tail served with rice, beans and flour tortillas isn't uncommon in coastal Mexican towns, and it's nice to have as a regular option in Houston.
The shrimp and Gouda flatbread always steals the lobster spotlight, but it's the red beet risotto served with a lobster tail that we've ordered more than once. (Just remember, it's casual but don't take kids after 7...)
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