The Lobster Roll is a Pure Feat of the Imagination—And You Have to Try It at the Chatham Pier Fish Market

As someone who grew up in New England, lobster rolls were, naturally, part of my diet. I love how simple yet delectable they are, using very few ingredients: a hot dog roll piled with sweet, tender lobster meat served cold with mayo or warm with drawn butter. The lobster is obviously the star of the show, and when you find a place that makes rolls with a generous amount of lobster, well, you'd return to that place again and again, right? That's how my family feels about the Chatham Pier Fish Market. This is one of my favorite spots for lobster rolls, not just on Cape Cod but in New England.

I've always loved summers on Cape Cod, and now that my dad lives here, it's easy to take my two kids for summer vacation. One of my favorite spots on the peninsula is the Chatham Pier, where we can watch the boats come in with their fresh fish catches while seals swim close by, hoping fish will get tossed off the boats in their direction. Watching from the observation deck is fun, and kids love it!

The Chatham Pier Fish Market is by the pier, and you can pick up fresh fish to cook at home or order something for lunch, which is what we typically do when visiting. Of course, lobster rolls are a must, and I like mine warm with drawn butter. The fresh roll topped with a generous portion of steamed lobster meat makes my eyes widen in delight when I open the box to see it. Served with it is a side of coleslaw and crispy French fries that complete my lunch. It's perfection!

If you prefer, you can order a lobster roll with mayo instead. The meat is lightly tossed in mayo and served cold. While fries are the standard side, they can be replaced with onion rings for an additional charge. In addition to lobster rolls, the market has an extensive menu that includes fried fish baskets, chowder, bisque, fresh salads, steamed shellfish, a tuna poke bowl, pasta tossed in lobster sauce, and more. There's even a small menu for kids, including grilled cheese and fish and chips.

If you've never been to this fish market in Chatham, you should go this summer. Grab a bit to eat, sit at a picnic table with water views, and enjoy some of the freshest seafood from boat to table.

Have you tried a lobster roll at Chatham Pier Fish Market yet? This is a must-visit spot in Chatham, not just for the lobster rolls but also to see the fishing boats come in and seals hanging around the dock. For hours and to view a menu, visit the Chatham Pier Fish Market website.

Once you fill up on lobster rolls at the Chatham Pier, make your way to downtown Chatham, one of Massachusetts's most walkable small towns. With shops, cafes, and restaurants, spending an afternoon here is easy.