where jess ate

During our Boston trip, we were determined to try at least one lobster roll per day. After indulging in several pricey restaurant lobster rolls, we dropped into the no-frills James Hook & Co (@JamesHookCo) for a more reasonably priced roll.

James Hook & Co is a family business which began selling lobsters back in 1925. James Hook and his sons would transport their catch from Maine and sell it to Boston restaurants. Fast forward 90 years and the company now distributes their lobsters to restaurants and wholesale distributors all over the US. According to their website, they distribute over 50,000 pounds of lobster every day!

The company has a small storefront located on the Boston waterfront inside a small trailer. Like I said, it’s a low-key, no-frills kinda joint. The space has a counter with raw seafood to take home and prepare yourself as well as tanks with live seafood in it.

Seating is limited – they have a few two-tops inside the trailer as well as a couple picnic tables outside. We came by on a weekday for an early lunch so we were able to grab a seat but I can only imagine how crazy busy it gets here during peak lunch hours.

While their menu offers crab rolls, a bisque and chowders, we came here for one thing: the Lobster Roll ($16 regular/$19 large). As you’d imagine from this no-frills joint, they keep their lobster rolls traditional. The roll consisted of fresh claw and knuckle meat coated in the perfect amount of mayo and stuffed inside a lightly toasted hot dog bun.

James Hook & Co is known for serving one of the best lobster rolls in town and I’m happy to report that this completely lived up to expectations. It was a killer lobster roll and the best part about it was the price. At $16 for a roll, this place definitely offers great value compared to some of the restaurant alternatives which are often around the $30 mark. Highly recommended!

At a glance:

• Family business which began selling lobsters in 1925; now a major lobster supplier
• Small, no-frills storefront located inside a trailer on the Boston waterfront
• Limited seating – a few two-tops inside and picnic tables outside
• Amazing lobster rolls – great value at $16-$19 compared to restaurant alternatives
• Also offers crab rolls, chowder, lobster bisque

Ratings (out of 5):

• Food: 4 stars
• Service: 3 stars
• Atmosphere: 2 stars