Rock Lobster 416.533.1800 www.rocklobsterfood.com closed Mondays, open late night for dinner
Sandwiched between Dundas and Queen on a stretch of Ossington that many Torontonians have grown to love, this genuine Canadian restaurant serves up some of the freshest seafood in the city. Having opened in mid December Rock Lobster is packed late into the night almost every night of the week. The softly lit wood coloured interior has a happy, caffeinated energy that’s loud and enjoyable. Eighties rock-n-roll beats belt out of the speaker. The bar is lively and one of the best seats in the house. The menu is sourced mainly from Canada’s East coast and its freshness is addictive.
The Rock Lobster Caesar ($12) unites two of my favourite ingredients: Nova Scotia lobster and savory Clamato. An order of Mallet and Malepec oysters ($2.25 each) join buttery sweet Canadian snow crab legs ($10) – so delicious not a condiment is needed. Vanilla poached lobster surf and a coarsely chopped steak tartar lacks seasoning and punch ($12).
Every time I see a lobster poutine on a menu I order it, and every time I’m disappointed and this was no exception ($13). Jerk crab and shrimp ($13) is aromatic with cilantro and zesty mouthwatering spices. I find the serpent’s fang cocktail ($10) pairs nicely with this dish.
One the best dishes on the menu is the lobster roll ($14). Sour briny pickles and creamy lobster on a freshly buttery grilled toast earn this sandwich one of the best around. And you can’t go wrong with beautiful peel-n-eat shrimp ($12).
Even though the drink prices match those of the food, this crab-and-lobster-focused seafood bar is a worthy addition to the trendy Ossington strip.
Nothing beats fresh seafood! This is on my list of places to try when I come to Toronto!
I like the way you think Mike !