Editors’ Choice, Restaurant
Island Creek Oyster Bar, Burlington
Fun Fact: Ethel’s Lobster Roll is named after chef Jeremy Sewall’s grandmother.
What’s Unique: A mixture of mayo and crème fraîche binds the tender knuckle, tail, and claw meat set on a hand-rolled brioche bun.
300 District Ave., Burlington, 781-761-6500, islandcreekoysterbar.com
Shack
Bob Lobster, Newbury
What’s Unique: Six variations on the classic, from one topped with short ribs or pork belly to a luscious wasabi-dressed one with slaw and sesame seeds.
Fun Fact: The new artwork in the dining room was done by a pair of Newburyport High School students.
49 Plum Island Turnpike, Newbury, 978-465-7100, boblobster.com
Readers’ Choice
Little Harbor Lobster Company, Marblehead
Standout Qualities: Lobster meat is shucked daily for each roll, which is heaped with a third of a pound of meat fresh off the boat.
3 Beacon St., Marblehead, 781-639-1961, littleharborlobster.com