Ed’s Lobster Bar in New York City has long been celebrated as a cornerstone of authentic seafood dining, blending the charm of a classic New England lobster shack with the vibrant energy of the city that never sleeps.
Nestled in the heart of Manhattan, Ed’s offers diners an exceptional menu that features an impressive variety of fresh seafood, expertly prepared to highlight the natural flavors of the ocean. Whether you’re a longtime seafood aficionado or a curious newcomer, Ed’s Lobster Bar delivers a culinary experience that is both comforting and refined.
The menu reflects a dedication to quality ingredients and timeless recipes, ensuring every dish bursts with freshness and character. From succulent lobster rolls to hearty clam chowder and a carefully curated selection of seasonal specialties, each plate is crafted to satisfy diverse palates.
Ed’s commitment to authenticity and tradition shines through in every bite, making it a destination for locals and tourists alike seeking a genuine taste of coastal cuisine right in the city’s core.
Signature Lobster Dishes
At the heart of Ed’s Lobster Bar menu lies the signature lobster dishes that have earned the establishment its stellar reputation. The lobster offerings are a celebration of simplicity and freshness, designed to showcase the natural sweetness and tender texture of the crustacean without overpowering seasonings.
The menu offers several ways to enjoy lobster, ranging from traditional boiled lobster served with clarified butter to creative interpretations like lobster rolls and lobster mac & cheese. Each dish is prepared with precision, ensuring that the lobster meat remains juicy and flavorful.
Classic Boiled Lobster
The classic boiled lobster is a staple, served whole with a side of melted butter and lemon wedges. This dish emphasizes the purity of the lobster’s flavor and is often recommended for first-time visitors who want to experience lobster in its most authentic form.
- Freshly caught lobster, steamed or boiled to perfection
- Accompanied by drawn butter and fresh lemon
- Served with traditional sides like corn on the cob or coleslaw
“A perfectly boiled lobster is a simple dish elevated by the quality of its ingredients and the care taken in its preparation.” – Ed’s Lobster Bar Chef
Lobster Roll Varieties
Ed’s offers a range of lobster rolls that cater to different tastes, from the classic New England style with chilled lobster meat mixed with a light mayo dressing to a warm, buttery Connecticut-style roll.
These sandwiches are served on freshly baked, slightly toasted buns that provide the perfect texture contrast.
- New England Lobster Roll: Lobster meat lightly tossed in mayo with celery and a hint of lemon
- Connecticut Style Lobster Roll: Warm lobster meat drenched in drawn butter
- Spicy Lobster Roll: Lobster with a zesty aioli for those craving a bit of heat
Lobster Mac & Cheese
This indulgent dish combines tender lobster chunks with creamy, cheesy pasta. The mac & cheese features a blend of sharp cheddar and gruyère cheeses, baked until golden brown on top.
It’s a rich and satisfying option that balances comfort food with gourmet ingredients.
Fresh Shellfish Selection
Beyond lobster, Ed’s Lobster Bar prides itself on a diverse array of shellfish that highlight the bounty of the sea. The shellfish offerings are carefully sourced to ensure peak freshness, delivering a taste experience that is both clean and briny.
From oysters to clams and mussels, the menu caters to those who appreciate the unique flavors of these ocean treasures. Each shellfish dish is thoughtfully prepared to enhance the natural textures and tastes without overwhelming them.
Oysters on the Half Shell
Ed’s seasonal oyster selection showcases varieties from the East Coast and beyond. Served chilled on a bed of crushed ice, the oysters come with classic accompaniments like mignonette sauce, cocktail sauce, and lemon wedges.
- East Coast favorites such as Wellfleet and Blue Point oysters
- Occasional special imports from the West Coast or international sources
- Available in half-dozen or dozen servings
Steamed Clams and Mussels
The steamed clams and mussels are prepared with fragrant herbs, garlic, and white wine broth, offering a warm and aromatic dish perfect for sharing. The broth is often served with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful juices.
- Fresh littleneck clams steamed with garlic and parsley
- Prince Edward Island mussels with a white wine and butter sauce
- Options to add spice or herbs based on customer preference
Hearty Soups and Chowders
Ed’s Lobster Bar menu features a selection of soups and chowders that are both comforting and rich in flavor. These dishes pay homage to New England’s culinary heritage, where clam chowder reigns supreme.
The soups are crafted using traditional recipes and fresh ingredients, making them a perfect starter or a fulfilling meal on their own. Each spoonful offers warmth and depth, ideal for chilly days or when seeking a taste of coastal nostalgia.
New England Clam Chowder
This creamy chowder is packed with tender clams, diced potatoes, onions, and celery, all simmered in a rich, velvety base. It is garnished with crispy bacon bits and fresh chives, delivering a balance of smoky and savory notes.
Seafood Bisque
The seafood bisque is a luxurious blend of lobster, shrimp, and scallops cooked in a creamy tomato-based broth. The bisque is smooth and slightly tangy, with a hint of sherry wine adding complexity.
Classic French Onion Soup
For those seeking a non-seafood option, the French onion soup offers caramelized onions simmered in a rich beef broth, topped with toasted bread and melted gruyère cheese. It’s a timeless favorite that pairs well with any meal.
Fresh Salads and Appetizers
Complementing the main seafood offerings, Ed’s provides a thoughtful selection of fresh salads and appetizers that add variety and balance to the meal. These dishes emphasize fresh produce and light, vibrant flavors to prepare the palate for heavier courses.
Ed’s House Salad
The house salad features mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a tangy lemon vinaigrette. It is a refreshing starter or side that brings a crisp texture to the dining experience.
Seafood Appetizer Platter
This platter is perfect for sharing, featuring a combination of lobster claws, shrimp cocktail, and crab cakes. Each item is served with its own dipping sauce, enhancing the natural flavors.
- Lobster claws served cold with mustard sauce
- Shrimp cocktail with classic horseradish cocktail sauce
- Mini crab cakes accompanied by remoulade sauce
Calamari Fritti
Lightly battered and fried to golden perfection, the calamari is served with a side of marinara and lemon aioli. It is a crispy and flavorful appetizer that balances spice and zest.
Entrees and Main Courses
For those looking to indulge beyond lobster and shellfish, Ed’s offers a variety of entrees that showcase a broader spectrum of seafood and meat options. Each dish highlights quality ingredients and meticulous preparation to satisfy diverse culinary desires.
Grilled Swordfish Steak
The swordfish steak is a hearty and flavorful option, grilled to perfection and topped with a fresh herb salsa verde. It is paired with seasonal vegetables and a light lemon butter sauce for added brightness.
Pan-Seared Scallops
These tender scallops are seared to achieve a golden crust while maintaining a delicate interior. Served atop a bed of creamy risotto, the dish is finished with a drizzle of truffle oil for an elegant touch.
Roast Chicken with Garlic and Herbs
For diners preferring poultry, the roast chicken is marinated in fresh herbs and garlic, then slow-roasted to retain moisture and flavor. It is served with roasted potatoes and sautéed greens, making for a satisfying, well-rounded meal.
Wine and Beverage Pairings
Ed’s Lobster Bar understands the importance of perfect beverage pairings to elevate the dining experience. The wine list is carefully curated to complement the seafood-heavy menu, featuring a range of white, red, and sparkling wines.
In addition to wines, the bar offers classic cocktails, local craft beers, and non-alcoholic options designed to refresh the palate and enhance the flavors of each dish.
Recommended White Wines
| Wine | Origin | Taste Profile |
| Sauvignon Blanc | New Zealand | Crisp, citrusy, with herbaceous notes |
| Chardonnay | California | Buttery, oaky, with tropical fruit flavors |
| Albariño | Spain | Fresh, mineral-driven, with peach and apricot |
Popular Cocktails
- Classic Lobster Bar Martini: Gin, vermouth, and a lemon twist
- Sea Breeze: Vodka, cranberry juice, and grapefruit juice
- Old Fashioned: Bourbon, bitters, sugar, and orange peel
Desserts to Complete the Meal
No meal at Ed’s Lobster Bar would be complete without indulging in one of their thoughtfully crafted desserts. The dessert menu offers sweet finishes that range from classic to inventive, designed to satisfy cravings without overwhelming the palate.
Classic New York Cheesecake
This rich and creamy cheesecake is a nod to New York’s iconic dessert scene. It features a graham cracker crust and a smooth filling that is both dense and light, topped with a fresh berry compote to add a burst of tartness.
Warm Apple Crisp
The warm apple crisp combines tender baked apples with a crunchy oat topping, served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It’s a comforting dessert that evokes the feeling of a home-cooked treat.
Chocolate Lava Cake
For chocolate lovers, the lava cake offers a molten center of rich dark chocolate, surrounded by a moist cake exterior. Accompanied by raspberry coulis and whipped cream, it’s a decadent way to end the meal.
Conclusion
Ed’s Lobster Bar in NYC presents a menu that is both a celebration of the ocean’s freshest offerings and a tribute to the culinary traditions of New England. The diverse range of lobster dishes, shellfish, hearty soups, and carefully selected entrees ensure that every diner finds something to delight their palate.
The attention to detail in preparation and presentation reflects a commitment to quality that has earned Ed’s lasting acclaim.
Pairing the food with thoughtfully chosen wines and cocktails further enhances the dining experience, creating a harmonious balance that elevates each meal. The restaurant’s inviting atmosphere and impeccable service make it a destination not just for a meal, but for a memorable culinary journey.
Whether enjoying a classic lobster roll, savoring a perfectly steamed clam, or finishing with a luscious dessert, Ed’s Lobster Bar offers a taste of tradition and excellence in every bite.
