- Restaurants |
- Nightlife |
- Shopping |
- Movies |
- All
Neptune Oyster
Category: Restaurants Seafood Seafood [Edit]
63 Salem St(between Cross St & Morton St)
Boston, MA 02113
Neighbourhood: North End
(617) 742-3474
- Nearest Transit:
-
Haymarket Station - Outbound (Orange Line)
Haymarket Station - Inbound (Orange Line)
Congress St @ Haymarket Sta (191, 192, 193, 325, 326, 4, 92, 93)
- Hours:
Mon-Thu 11:30 am - 9:30 pm
Fri-Sun 11:30 am - 10:30 pm
- Attire:
- Casual
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Price Range:
-
$$$
- Good for Groups:
- No
- Good for Kids:
- No
- Takes Reservations:
- No
- Delivery:
- No
- Take Away:
- No
- Waiter Service:
- Yes
- Outdoor Seating:
- No
- Wi-Fi:
- No
- Good For:
- Dinner
- Alcohol:
- Beer & Wine Only
- Noise Level:
- Average
- Ambience:
- Casual
- Has TV:
- No
- Caters:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- No
1077 reviews for Neptune Oyster
Review Highlights
-
"The lobster roll was absolutely to die for." In 562 reviews -
"i highly recommend this place for the raw bar." In 114 reviews -
"Also, delicious and unique clam chowder." In 139 reviews
Loading...
1077 reviews in English
-
Review from Lydia s.
Boston, MA
5/25/2012
Before I discuss the food, I would like to address the individuals who complain about waiting too long and the size of the restaurant. Nothing worth having in life comes easily, unless you are a spoiled brat who is used to getting everything you want instantly.
Small, local eateries are difficult to maintain in busy, expensive cities like Boston, and for this establishment to uphold a standard of quality for so long without compromising their culinary integrity is notable.
So go early, plan ahead, and find something to occupy yourselves with, KNOWING that you will have to wait. Don't be one of those people who stands awkwardly gawking at others while they dine.
That said, the food is excellent. The Lobster Roll is of course, as many have said before me, amazing. But rarely have I found a Northern Spot that accurately prepares a southern dish like Shrimp&Grits, and rivals Southern cooking! (I lived in the South for 15 years and my Man is from SC). Delicious, just the right amount of spice, and a whole lot of shrimp! Seriously. It's rare when eating a shrimp dish that when you get down to the last bites, you have shrimp left. Even with me sneaking them off his plate, he had a large last shrimpy bite!
We tried 11 different types of oysters, and found the written descriptions to be accurate and enticing. We found we enjoyed them best with just a tiny squeeze of lemon, as they are ridiculously fresh, but to each his own. The mignonette is nice and the cocktail sauce had plenty of spice.
However, despite the awesome food, the BEST part of our experience was the service. Although, as it was our first time at Neptune's, getting our name in with the very busy hostess (poor thing, what a tough job) at first was a bit confusing, we ended up with seats at the bar which was awesome, as our bartendress Julie turned out to really make our dinner more of an enjoyable meal. She has a great sense of humour, honest recommendations, and, as it was my birthday, sent out a few extra oysters on the house.. totally unexpected kindness but much appreciated and really sweet!
I have worked in the service industry since I was 14, and this was an overall exceptional experience. If you want to be coddled, go find an overpriced place with white tablecloths where they crumb your table in between courses. If you want great food, an authentic, feel-good-busy atmosphere, and stellar service, and some of the freshest damn seafood I've ever had, come to Neptunes. (and ask for Julie..) -
Review from Kevin L.
Charlotte, NC
5/22/2012 6 photos
Hate to be cliche with this one, but it's a 5-Star for the Lobster Roll. Granted, we also tried the Blue Crab Salad, but it's a clear 5-Star.
I highly recommend calling your name in or at least trying to. We had a 50 minute wait at 1p but they did take our number and call us while we were enjoying another local bar.
The service was wonderful, our waitress was sweet, the Blue Crab Salad was wonderful, light and... the lobster roll was warm, buttery and rich. Absolutely a dream. I'm sitting in Charlotte saddened that I couldn't go back for dinner tonight! -
Review from Yu Ting Y.
Philadelphia, PA
5/22/2012
we had the oysters and shrimp at the raw bar. i previously had an aversion to oysters of any sort, but i was told that neptune was different. verdict? I AM NOW A NEPTUNE CONVERT.
other must-tries: scallops, lobster roll
i was so incredibly happy after the meal, i love you boston, and i love you neptune! -
Review from Cassy H.
I came back here with one of my foodie girlfriends and of course, got the warm, buttery lobster roll. Still delicious with lobster cooked to perfection. Still my favorite lobster roll place in town. Still about an hour wait on average even if you come in the middle of the day during the week. Anyway, please don't ever change, Neptune Oyster.
For once, I have to agree with Bruno Mars, because "there's not a thing that I would change, 'cause you're amazing, just the way you are..."Listed in: Bawston Favorites
1 Previous Review: Show all »
-
10/1/2011
Hello warm, delicious, buttery lobster roll! Thank you for allowing me to check off one of my… Read more »
-
-
Review from Adrianne H.
Houston, TX
5/16/2012 1 Check-in Here
Order:
Mussels in red curry broth with garlic. Really fantastic!
Clam chowder was aiiiight. Nothing spectacular.
Blood Orange bellini isn't too bad but again, nothing out of this world.
I did not try the oysters but my friend said they were really great and she loved the fact that the oyster list came with descriptions on the tastes. I agree! -
Review from Christy D.
Houston, TX
5/14/2012 1 Check-in Here
What to say about Neptune Oyster? This place has over a thousand reviews...mostly bragging about the lobster roll. Well, I have a different perspective...
My friend and I got on the list for the last table for the evening at 8 pm. We had a 2 hour wait to be seated, which was expected. It was crazy to see people being turned away for the evening, but I figured it was a good sign. They take your cell number and call you when your table is ready, which is awesomely convenient. To me, the wait is not an issue if the food meets expectations.
So, our table was ready and we started to dine. I ordered the toasted lobster roll, hot and buttered. My friend ordered the curried mussels and the clam chowder. Maybe it was the fact that we were the last to arrive for the evening, but my lobster roll was very underwhelming. There were some tender, delicous pieces of lobster, likely from the claws, but a good deal of the meat was chewy and lackluster. The roll was soggy and untoasted and the butter did nothing to help. For $26, I would expect more. I noticed other patrons with soggy rolls left on their plates as well.
Now, my friend's dishes, the chowder and mussels, were much tastier. I absolutely loved the mussels, and our server brought bread to dip in the curried sauce. Very tasty! Her chowder was just okay to me, it seemed like a "broth" that was mostly cream and not much else.
But there is one most notable character missing from my review and that is...the oysters. I ordered two Thacher Island oysters based on their description of being plump with a buttery finish. Talk about amazing! Those were the best I'd had and very memorable. They were perfect with a squeeze of lemon.
For the price, the wait and the overall meal, I'd say this place ended up being average. I'd consider going again, early, but for just the mussels and oysters. However, if you're in Boston for a short time, like myself, I'd recommend checking out Island Creek Oyster Bar instead for their take on mussels and oysters.Listed in: Boston
-
Review from Tucker H.
5/10/2012 1 Check-in Here
There are so many reviews already that I'm not going to go crazy describing how good this place is. Instead, a couple tips:
1) Get there early, especially on the weekend. We showed up at 5:15 and the wait was already 90 minutes for a two-top. By the time we sat down at 6:30, the wait for two was 2 1/2 hours, and for 3 or more it was 3 1/2. The nice thing is that they don't make you stand in line like Giacomo's, you give them your cell phone and they call you when you table is nearly ready.
2) If it is hot or cool out, don't be a jackass and stand in the doorway. Get in or get out, otherwise the poor people at the end of the counter will suffer for your lack of manners.
3) Don't be afraid to sit at the counter, especially if the seats face the street, it's like looking into a fishbowl as people walk back and forth in front of you. -
Review from Alex F.
Boston, MA
5/10/2012
I give this restaurant 2 stars not because my evening at Neptune was unpleasant, but because "Meh. I've experienced better," exactly sums up my experience.
Having lived in Boston for almost 5 years now, I've heard only good reviews about Neptune, both from food celebrities like Anthony Bourdain on the Food Network, and real life friends and coworkers. As such, I had high hopes when I suggested it to my mother who flew in to Boston to celebrate Mother's Day. Everything I'd heard about Neptune's was about the same: "it's worth the wait."
I'd hoped that by arriving around 6, we'd beat the dinner rush, but even so we were told that the wait for a party of two was 45 minutes. We wandered the North End a bit, but spent a majority of our 1 hour and 15 minute wait huddled inside the Neptune entrance. When seated, we ordered a dozen Cherrystone clams, the hamachi ceviche, and the gold coast red snapper. My mother asked for a hot water with lemon, her customary drink order, but was informed that hot beverages were not an option. From what I could surmise, the beverage selection ranges from wine to water and nothing in between.
There's no question that our food was absolutely delicious. The clams, with lemon and sauces, were delightful. The ceviche, though not what expected (it was really more along the lines of strips of fish with sauces laid on a plate) was lovely, and the red snapper was one of the tastiest dishes I've had in some time. I rate Neptune Oyster only 2 stars because the food, while delicious, did not make up for the exaggerated wait time, the cramped and noisy seating situation, the lack of choices, and the high prices. For an equally delicious meal at the same rate, I recommend the Oceanaire Room on Court St. right by Government Center. -
Review from Analisa S.
Berkeley, CA
5/21/2012
The hostess is a snooty woman who gives herself a little too much importance. Go down the street to Rabia. Same oysters less attitude.
-
Review from Ted W.
Pittsburgh, PA
5/13/2012
I am officially declaring this to be the best burger in boston. Maybe the eastern seaboard. The oysters were perfect. Just the way Hemmingway described them. I liked the lobster roll but is wasn't a religious experience for me. The Johnny cake though.. That's a totally different ball of wax. It will change your life. HFS that thing is good. It might be my most favorite food right now.
I've been twice when it wasn't too busy. And both times I enjoyed the strangers sitting next to me. Best time to go is a Sunday afternoon I think. -
Review from Brian D.
4/30/2012
Someone asked me the other day what my favorite food of any kind was. It's the warm lobster roll at Neptune Oyster. I swear I can eat this everyday for the rest of my life and never get sick of it. Everytime I come in, I think about having one of the other amazing things on the menu (including their burger), but I can never resist the lobster roll. The fried clams and Johnny Cake are my favorite appetizers. If you are visting Boston (or live in Boston, but have been living under a rock), this place is a must.
I used to live down the block so waiting wasn't a big deal for me, I just went home and watched TV until they called. Otherwise, be prepared to walk around the North End, or go into one of the other bars to have a drink while you wait for your turn. In my experience, the wait is never as long as they quote. I think they like to keep expectations low. -
Review from Derrick C.
Buffalo, NY
5/25/2012 4 photos
Lived in Boston for over a year and had multiple trips back there since but I have never been able to get past that long line @ Neptune Oyster. Until last weekend when my Mom had the wise idea of going for lunch and lining up early. We showed up at 11 and were 2nd in line and by the time it opened half an hour later, there were about 20-25 hungry customers behind us. Right off the bat, we ordered two lobster rolls - one hot, one cold that came w/ fries on the side. Both hands down the best lobster roll I've ever had with plump, succulent, fresh lobster but I had the hardest time choosing which one I liked more. Hot soaking w/ butter vs. cold tossed with mayo - I ultimately went w/ the cold. We also got the Neptunes on Piggyback (crispy oysters, Berkshire Pig, raisin confit, pistachio aioli) which was damn good. Never would've though a fried oyster would go so well w/ pork but there are probably very few things in life that don't go w/ Berkshire. Everything worked super well together. Disappointingly though, the clam chowder was bland and needed pepper to have some flavor. Don't get me wrong, it was good especially w/ the potatoes cooked harder than most and just having a fresh quality to it, but bland is bland. Also got some raw oysters which were good but honestly don't even remember which we got. And last, the Dayboat Scallops were the weakest dish we had. All in all, worth getting there early to get a taste of Boston's finest seafood joint.
-
Review from Dave C.
4/29/2012 2 photos
How is it that I have been coming to Boston for almost 2 years and that I have not ventured into this joint?
Oh yes thats right... terrible parking, extreme long lines and annoying Boston mass transit (i am looking at you T)
But I was wrong to have blown this place off.
Came here at an off hour 2pm and it was STILL packed, atleast there was no wait.
The oysters here are very fresh. I like how they give you an info card for you to order...informing you on such things as... salt level, size, finishing taste so you know what your eating.
The mussel cooked with curry sauce was awesome. Curry was subtle enough to still allow the taste of the mussel to come out.
The lobster roll was just so so. A bit too buttery if that is possible as the bread was soggy. I've had equivalent or better in Maine, but whatever that is neither here nor there.
The star of the show was the ciopinno. As the waitress brought it out she told us to "Get ready for some deliciousness" and she was telling the truth. Everything about it was right from the saffron rice to the perfectly cooked fish, lobsters etc...with just enough heat. I made the mistake of allowing my fiance to 'taste' my dish as her taste ended up being HALF of all the goodness. Def recommend adding the lobster to the dish.
FYI: Come at an off hour and have a great time. Best for groups of 2-4. -
Review from Jamie Z.
Brooklyn, NY
5/22/2012
Phenomenal. I am a native Bostonian and this is one of the best resto's this country has to offer! I love that they call you if there is a wait. One absolutely has to know good food and drink to fully appreciate this place. It would be wasted on someone who thought Kelly's on the beach was just as good ;-)
-
Review from Rae R.
Boston, MA
5/7/2012
We went on a Friday at 3pm. No line, sat at the bar which was really quite charming. I love the look and feel of this cozy little (VERY LITTLE) place.
What more can I add to over 1000 reviews? I'm a transplant to the New England area, so fried clams are a new thing for me. And yep, the fried clams with a wedge of lemon and side of tartar sauce...delightful! However, I surprised myself by not totally loving my hot buttered lobster roll. It was delicious, but just too heavy for me. If you're a lobster fan, this is definitely for you. I'm going to ask for the cold lobster but on a hot bun next time - I hope they can do that! -
Review from Ksenja T.
5/2/2012
I visited Boston for the first time this past weekend, and on our last day we ventured into Neptune Oyster after exploring the North End area. The wait time was about an hour at 4 pm and we ended up getting two seats by the bar which I actually preferred.
This spot most certainly deserves a 5/5. I am not a seafood expert, but the oysters were simply outstanding. Divine freshness. You can order different types depending on what type of finish taste you prefer, but I tried the fruity and citrusy finish ones and they were incredible.
We also got two appetizers: the hamachi crudo and the tuna tartare with the avocado spread. The prices are a bit high for appetizers ($16) but you are paying for the freshness and quality of the fish. The little chips on top of the hamachi were a nice touch, and the avocado was the perfect companion to that fresh tuna on a crostini. I highly recommend trying them.
Now, the lobster roll IS all the rave ($25). There is a reason this place has a 4.5 average even after 1000 reviews and more. If you come to Neptune Oyster even once in your life, this is the one dish that one must get. We got the hot roll with butter, and it was one of the best things I have ever eaten period. The lobster just melted in your mouth, and the touch of sweetness from the brioche bun just took it to a whole other level. The french fries were also excellent. I cannot wait to come back to Neptune Oyster and order myself another lobster roll. Definitely a good reason to come back to Boston for. -
Review from Amy N.
San Francisco, CA
5/10/2012
WOW.
You must go here and try the lobster roll - it is amazing. I am not even a big seafood fan but I couldn't get enough. I went here early in the evening so I avoided waiting in line. There are not many tables, so get here early! -
Review from Janet G.
Needham Heights, MA
4/25/2012
Quaint little cozy place in the North End. Two hour wait for four people Thats ok though because I was forewarned of the queue and it gave me a rare chance to explore the North End, since they give you a call when your table is ready.
The oysters were yum! Very fresh. We also shared this tuna tartare on a crostini with a avocado spread. DELICIOUS! I could probably eat a couple of those as my lunch. Friend ordered the clam chowder, and we were not impressed. I didn't taste it, but it was a little liquidy, the potatoes were hard (so I heard), although they did say the clams were meaty.
Since I am lactose intolerant, I was a little sad that I could not order the lobster roll that all my friends got. Big chunks of lobster in a glistening bun (the hot lobster roll), or you could get the cold lobster roll which was a lobster salad on a roll. Both looked good and my friends enjoyed it. I got the king salmon crudo. It was pretty good, but I think next time I'll try the tuna tartare sandwich. Or maybe just order the tuna tartare from above.
Pear mimosa topped off my lunch. -
Review from Eileen J.
Flushing, NY
This place is fantastic! Boston is known for their delicious seafood but I think this place just topped any other experience. Everything was just so delicious. The clam chowder, mussels and hot buttered lobster rolls. Definetely something you have to try when you go. It is pricey, lunch came out to be $95 with tip but totally worth it. And the wait was around 30 minutes on a Thursday at 12PM but you leave them your number and they do call you when the table is ready.
Overall, it was a great experience. -
Review from Rachel R.
Scottsdale, AZ
4/17/2012
When the hostess says, "the wait is going to be about (insert relatively infuriating number here) hours" you say, "okay." Do not be alarmed, perplexed, nor perturbed... just give her your name/cell and begin the countdown to the best meal ever. It doesn't matter if she says six hours, you will wait and it will be worth it.
Besides, there are plenty of things to buy and see in the North End in the meantime. You could even get coffee and dessert before dinner to kill time (not that anyone would do that, of course). Although, hypothetically speaking, I recommend hitting up Maria's for baba rum, ricotta pie, and a napoleon... I ate at Neptune twice in two days (and hypothetically Maria's) and would have happily gone again if given extra resources and stomach space. I can't recommend one dish more highly than the next, but I can tell you everything I managed to stuff down my gullet while there.
1. Hot lobster roll. Everyone around us was eating this dish, and every person licked their buttery plate clean, from the hot, soaked roll, to the huge, steaming, chunks of lobster, to the perfectly crisp heap of fries and ketchup on the side. The quest for 'best lobster roll in Boston' has effectively been terminated. Not to mention, the empowering feeling that accompanies combining a bite of really cheap food (fries) with really expensive food (lobster) is AWESOME. The best of both worlds is an understatement.
2. Uni pasta. There is not nearly enough tubetti in the world, so the fact that this dish featured the tiny tubes immediately won my heart (or perhaps stomach). Between the light, savory, creamy sauce, green peas, morels, chewy little pastas, and uni so tender that chewing became superfluous, it only seemed natural that I eat this dish this twice in 24 hours. My one regret is not having it a third time.
3. Johnny cakes. This dish was reminiscent of a bagel, lox & cream cheese on crack. Replace the bagel with a fluffy, chewy johnnycake topped with a sweet molasses-y glaze, the lox for a mound of trout tartare and black caviar, and the cream cheese for a dollop creme fraiche. The contrast of flavors and textures is pretty unique to this dish, and the sweet and salty ratio was perfect. I was craving it again the next morning (I mean, johnny cakes are breakfast food...)
4. Ciopinno - An octopus's dream come true. Juicy lobster, heaps of clams and mussels, prawns with heads in tact, and cubes of silver skinned salmon over saffron rice in a spicy broth. I suppose saffron rice doesn't apply to an octopus's dream come true, but aside from that, this entree was just a melange of perfectly prepared, high quality seafood... and besides, everyone loves sucking the juices out of a prawn head. If you're conflicted about which undersea morsel to consume, the ciopinno lets you have it all.
In a nutshell, try anything and everything that appeals to you. You can't go wrong, and you probably just waited 3 hours to get in, so take advantage of it. Neptune is the best of the best... so good, you might find yourself back there the next day.Listed in: The Anti-Tourist Eats Boston
-
Review from Steve M.
Richmond, MA
5/20/2012
I love Neptune, definitely my type of place. The oysters are always fresh and and tasty, the staff is quite knowledgeable about them too.
My favorite part about this place is that when I want a good raw bar (oysters, cocktail, fruits de mer platters etc.) its there and when I want good old New England seafood like Lobster Rolls and fried clams they do those excellently. I like the clam chowder although some people I've been with dislike it. I assume they are used to the ridiculously thick generic versions that are unfortunately so prevalent.
The only downside is sometimes getting a table is like pulling teeth when its busy. -
Review from James Michael S.
Chicago, IL
Updated - 5/16/2012 1 Check-in Here
Lobster roll, lobster roll, lobster roll. The only bad thing is this is the only place you'll ever be able to eat one because no other roll competes. Get there early, they don't take reservations but they will take your name and number and call you when your table is ready.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
-
4/23/2012
I was in Boston for 3 days and I went here 2 times during my trip because it was THAT DAMN GOOD.
… Read more »
-
-
Review from Jessie E.
Cambridge, MA
5/18/2012
Truly amazing. Oysters are ultra fresh, devils on horseback is crispy deliciousness. I dont waste my time on lobster rolls but it seems to be the place to get it. Of course I do wish they took reservations because it's a nightmare to get it but the wait is worth it. Great wine list!
-
Review from Ella B.
Los Olivos, CA
4/6/2012
Delicious, but pricey! We went on a Monday to avoid the long lines out the door and was seated quickly.
We ordered 6 oysters on the half shell and they were good -- but I think Island Creek may have shucked them a little better -- Island Creek can def. give Neptune's a run for their money!
We also ordered a lobster roll - warm, comes with fries. Clam chowder - made to order, 2 glasses of Chardonnay (not on the menu, you have to ask), total for each person including tip was $53. A bit pricey lunch, but it was fun and great ambiance in the North End.
Very small location -- not good for groups, accepts credit cards. -
Review from Jason G.
Traverse City, MI
4/23/2012 1 Check-in Here
Finding this place on a recent business trip, thanks to Yelp, was a revelation ... and I say this as a native New Englander! After six varieties of local oysters, I had the "Neptunes on Piggyback" dish, which was a really interesting combo of textures and flavors ...
Something I haven't seen noted in other reviews, is that they offer either the cold lobster salad roll ... OR ... the hot version, which has the lobster meat tossed in drawn butter! I finished my meal with the hot, and WOW ... SO ... GOOD! Ask for a side salad instead on the fries, if you want ... the dressing was perfect.
The wine list and beer selection was also interesting, and the Ligurian white I tried the other night was a nice compliment to their food.
Next time I'm there I plan to try their burger, because it features fried oysters!
GO! -
Review from Katie W.
Boston, MA
If you want to eat around 9pm, get there at 6pm to put your name down. Yes, Neptune Oyster is worth a 3 hour wait. But you don't have to wait there. They call you when your table is ready.
Seafood is very fresh. But if you're debating on what to get, you HAVE to order the HOT Maine lobster roll with butter. You can't walk out this restaurant without trying this. -
Review from Lisa S.
New York, NY
5/15/2012
I went at 3pm on a Monday afternoon and had to wait 30minuts. (for a table of 3). The food was ok. The raw bar/ oysters were probably the best part of the meal.
We also ordered the cioppino and the hot buttered lobster roll. The lobster roll had a lot of meat on it but I've had tastier. Maybe because it's not lobster season but the lobster was a little bland. (others i've recently tasted also were the same)
The cioppino was good and it would've been great had I not tasted the cioppino at Atlantic Fish. The broth was not as rich and flavorful as Atlantic Fish's and while it was good, the one at Atlantic Fish was amazing.
I'm glad I got to go here on a recent Boston trip but it was just alright. -
Review from Brent C.
Newport Beach, CA
4/3/2012 1 Check-in Here
Sometimes, you wonder why you write a review for a known winner...however, I'm going to comment to make a nuanced point. Yes, the lobster roll -- hot and buttered -- was just right. It was generous, and had ample pieces from the tail, claws, and knuckles. It missed on the lobster meat, though. It tasted fresh, but I guarantee you it was too chewy. The flavor was very good--but either the lobster itself was just a tough little bottom dweller, or it was over-cooked.
Whatever I say will have little impact, other than for the person who reads this, and whom is never overwhelmed by over-hype. Perhaps this was a one-time deal, where things didn't work out as advertised/promoted. Very possible.
I heard through the grapevine that the owners are really great community people, so I definitely have no desire to drag them down. I applaud, and thank them. I enjoyed my meal very much, and would recommend this establishment.
I did find one thing irritating...I arrived at about noon on a Saturday "morning" and knew the "cell-phone-number-taking-in-person" reservation routine. I watched many less-stalwart customers fade, and leave, behind me--except 2-guys, who had their concierge from the Four-Seasons--call ahead for them. (not possible for commoners..) Even though the hostess/waitress recognized me, and took my name, with no other names ahead of me--they still grabbed the two guys behind me, and seated them before me. //Seriously, I'm accustomed to this "stuff",so I don't go nuts about it...(try eating out at popular Miami restaurants) it's just mildly irritating. Trust me--it had nothing to do with the seating chart--they just preferenced a couple guys ahead of me--and it wasn't a local, with his cronies.--that "stuff" I understand.
On a last good note, I sat at the bar, had a terrific bartender (even though I couldn't have a beer, due to work later in the day), and fun, nice people around me. It's a very good place to experience Boston.
Though their lobster roll was excellent, and better than Belle Isle's (unfortunately, I think Belle Isle's is pre-picked (out of shell) too far ahead of time), the best roll belongs to Brick Alley Pub in Newport, R.I. // To Neptune's cred, I will return soon to try their cold roll, to validate my taste buds and will further review. (Because everyone is hinging on it!!! Haha!) -
Review from Eric C.
Newton, MA
4/23/2012
If there is one place I consistently recommend to people in Boston, it's Neptune Oysters.
I have been here at least 5-7 times and the wait is always ridiculous. I came here with my girlfriend a couple weeks ago and was quoted with a 2.5 hour wait. Yes, that is ridiculous, and yes, it's probably worth it.
As with most people, I love the lobster rolls, but not as much as others love it. I always get it hot with the butter on the side. However, don't be tricked into thinking that the lobster roll is all that's good here. I LOVE the North End Cioppino, which is a fantastic stew mix of various seafood and saffron rice. Amazing dish. If you come here with several peeps, I also love the entire whole bronzini, which is cooked perfectly (but of course, with bones) and isn't for the lazy. Whole fish is always best.
I recommend coming when you have less people, as it can be a grueling wait. The great thing is that they call you on your cell when they have your table ready, so you can walk around the North End while waiting. Overall, always a great experience, especially when you have great company. -
Review from Joanna C.
Irvine, CA
5/8/2012
Small, crowded, a LONG wait, nearly no parking available, tourist location, and yet - what brings me back? Ah, yes - that's right, it's the FOOD.
Maine Lobster roll - a standard and established item at Neptune Oyster. I prefer the hot over the cold. Something about that hot buttered, toasted bun cushioned with succulent lobster chunks...mmm, and the potato skins fries are perfectly crispy, tender, and salted. Even better with the Fisherman's Brew.
A variety of fresh raw oysters with knowledgeable, friendly waitstaff. A helpful order card with informational taste points highlighted. Served with cocktail sauce and mignonette. Some may find this odd but I personally love dipping my fries into the sauces as well.
Tip: do not come hungry because you will usually need to wait a good amount of time; by the time you're up - you'll be starving. I also noticed that It doesn't help to stare at the patrons eating as you're waiting outside (I'm so SO rude). Sit up at the bar if you can. The best time to come - on a weekday during the afternoon; it's quieter, calmer, and you can have an enjoyable lunch.
Definitely one of my Boston favorites. -
Review from Eunice K.
4/11/2012 3 photos
SERVICE/AMBIANCE:
-Really lucked out when we came here because we got there early and did not have to wait at all. The restaurant is pretty small and it is very casual inside. Love the atmosphere. They have a great beer selection.
FOOD:
-BLUE CRAB SALAD - Fresh blue crab and avocado. So yummy!
-LOBSTER ROLL - 540 people say its delicious, well they are all right! Best thing I ate during my whole trip to Boston. -
Review from Paran Y.
4/6/2012 1 Check-in Here
I am a prophet. And I shall prove it.
You at 6:30 on a Friday night strolling into NO trying to impress a date: "table for two"
"the wait is over 3 hours"
"well....shit"
It is only then will a naive thought start to form in your mind that may forever alter the course of your future--"ugh...is it worth it?!" Please, let me be your voice of reason: YES YOU IDIOT.
Here, I'll even plan an even more impressive night. Put your name down and then cab on over to Drink, my favorite watering hole. I'll be early enough where you won't have to wait in that line as well. Casually sip on some choice cocktails while amazingness awaits. Trust me it won't feel that long this way.
Now the pièce de résistance. Imagine the day you got your first kiss. Feelings of excitement, mystery, anticipation, and lust all wrapped in one moment. Now imagine that experience lathered in delicious butter. Wait, what?! Yes, you have just experienced a NO lobster roll. My hands are shaking as I write this sentence. Lobster withdrawal is no laughing matter. -
Review from Jessica B.
Boston, MA
4/23/2012
Awesome food. The Hot Buttered Lobster Roll is to die for! The place is very small and the wait can be very long, but well worth it. My advice is to go early, put your name in, and go get drinks elsewhere while you wait - they will call your cell. They do not take reservations, smaller parties are better, I believe 6 people is their max for a group. My husband does not really care for seafood. He tried the fish tacos and loved them!
This is MUST for any trip to Boston! Remember to get the HOT BUTTERED LOBSTER ROLL! -
Review from Nida K.
3/26/2012 5 photos
It almost wouldn't seem right if you came to Boston and didn't eat at Neptune Oyster. It's centrally located with all the historical landmarks nearby. It's a very, very small restaurant especially for the crowd it draws in. The space is very tight, so that's fair warning for those with personal space issues. My friends and I came here for dinner and there was about an hour and a half wait. They told us that they'd call us when our table was ready so we just hung out at a bar nearby.
When the time finally arrived to eat a plethora of seafood, we were excited. I'm no seafood lover like my friends were, but even I was excited to try what they had here. We ordered the Triton Plateau for the three of us to share. It was a platter of oysters, crab, shrimp, and lobster. It was delicious and perfect for sharing with others. The North End Cioppino was seasoned perfectly. It reminded me of paella and stew, but the flavor of it was delightful. My friend had ordered a lobster roll that I didn't get to try, however, she said that she's had better in NY.
Overall, a very satisfying dinner. We were stuffed silly before we left and went to enjoy our one night in this beautiful city. -
Review from Joe B.
Chandler, AZ
3/30/2012 1 Check-in Here
I sat at the bar and the bartender was great! The service was super.
I had 4 types of oysters which were outstanding....I love the oyster menu that describes the flavors. It was spot on.
Of course...hot lobster roll with fries....and it did not disappoint one bit.
Washed everything down with a few Harpoon Ales and my night was perfect! -
Review from Danny C.
Chicago, IL
4/18/2012
I heard about this restaurant from a friend and how good the lobster roll here was. My group decided to try this place out for dinner. We were going to make reservations but then I saw on yelp that they don't take reservations. We ended up waiting about an hour for a table. Like many of the highly rated restaurants in Boston, this place was small but busy.
Since this was close to our last meal in Boston, I decided to try the Clam Chowder, since we were in New England after all. It was pretty interesting. They had potatoes in it and it was creamy with an adequate amount of clams in it. I felt that the soup needed some more taste to it though. Instead of getting the soup, my friend ordered an enormous dish of mussels for an appetizer. I tried one and it was very good. I wish I had gotten that instead.
For the main dish, I wanted to try the lobster since I heard they are plentiful and cheap in New England. However, the market price for it was like $50 so I went for the lobster roll instead. The lobster roll was covered in butter and looked tasty. I enjoyed it and it was very filling. However, I don't believe it's as good as my friend and the reviews here described it. I thought there was too much butter and it seemed to have overwhelmed the lobster taste. It also didn't look as good as some of the pictures I've seen of it. If I ever come back to Boston, I think I would try the scallops and oysters here. -
Review from Jeff L.
Boston, MA
5/13/2012
Love this place. It's a toss up between this place and B&G Oysters for the best in town. Place is always packed and always has new and interesting specials. Seating is limited so I usually seat at the bar. Staff is awesome and super friendly. Back to the Oysters, super fresh. Taste like they just caught that day. Can't recommend this place enough. Quite pricey for me, so it's a special occasion type place.
-
Review from Morgan C.
Fullerton, CA
4/26/2012
My son ate here recently and was victimized by an unethical server who adjusted the tip. By the time we discovered the problem it was too late to dispute. Server name on the receipt was Grouper.
Just a warning to check your receipt carefully here. -
Review from Julie R.
3/16/2012
After hearing about these hot buttered lobster rolls for years and having never set food in this establishment, I knew where I wanted to have a special lunch.
The lobster roll didn't disappoint. It was hearty, buttery, falling out the seams, just delicious. Even the fries on the side were good too.
We also added a slew of shellfish, mostly a variety of oysters and then some clams. Again, as awesome as you can get for fresh shellfish.
Yellow-fin sashimi was refreshing. It was served spread out on a plate with a avocado and citrus glaze.
Neptunes on piggyback, were pork belly served on top of a fried oyster. Mouth watering.
This place will cost you, but its worth every penny!
The waitstaff can have a tude, which adds to its Boston charm. I'm sure the volume can be overwhelming. They aim to get the food out quick and get you out the door cause there are always people in line waiting for a table.Listed in: Lobster Rolls
-
Review from Alyssa K.
3/19/2012
I don't think I've ever waited for a meal as long as I did for Neptune Oyster. We were given an estimate of 2-2.5 hours. Fortunately, we got the call that our table was ready "just" 1.5 hours later.
I was very curious about the lobster roll here, since everyone on here raves about it. I'm a huge fan of the lobster roll at Luke's Lobster in NYC, where the lobster meat is very flavorful with all the butter and seasoning they put on it.
$25 for a hot lobster roll and fries here, vs. $17 at Luke's for a roll, chips, and a drink. "This better be worth it," I said to myself.
It was. It was worth the $25, worth the 1.5 hour wait for a seat, worth enduring sitting next to two obnoxious biznatches who thought we couldn't hear them and kept commenting on how we were such tourists for taking pics of our food.
I want to estimate that Neptune's lobster roll had about twice as much meat as Luke's. The chunks were gigantic and juicy. The big difference was that Neptune's roll was much more "au naturel"; the hot bun was buttered, but the lobster meat itself tasted very pure and fresh. The fries were awesome, too.
I can tell I'm going to have dreams of Neptune's lobster roll; one of these mornings, I'm going to wake up with drool all over my pillow. It's certainly one of the best lobster rolls I've ever had... would give Neptune 4.5 stars if I could! DEFINITELY will be back, even if it means waiting up to three hours.
