Red Hook Lobster Pound

- 284 Van Brunt St, Brooklyn, NY 11231

Welcome to the Red Hook Lobster Pound, a true Brooklyn institution that has been bringing the authentic taste of the New England coast right to the shores of Red Hook, Brooklyn since 2009. More than just a seafood restaurant, this establishment is a cherished culinary destination, modeled after a classic Maine seafood shack, and dedicated to sourcing the absolute freshest, highest-quality lobsters directly from the best lobstermen in Maine. For New Yorkers craving that sweet, buttery, and generous bite of real lobster, this flagship location has long been the go-to spot.

What began as a simple two-tank storefront, and gained legendary status selling rolls under a tent at the Brooklyn Flea with their famous "Big Red" food truck (once voted the Best Food Truck in America), has evolved into a full-service, buzzing restaurant renowned for its commitment to quality and an unparalleled seafood dining experience. This women-owned business, co-founded by Susan Povich and her husband Ralph Gorham, has cemented its place as a cornerstone of the vibrant Red Hook neighborhood, offering a casual, cozy, and trendy atmosphere that appeals to everyone from local college students and families to groups and tourists. It's the perfect seaside escape without ever having to leave New York City.

The menu is a celebration of New England tradition, with a modern twist, but the main attraction—the iconic Maine and Connecticut-style lobster rolls—remain the absolute star. The consistency in quality, stemming from their dedicated sourcing of fresh Maine lobster, ensures that whether you’re settling in for a quick lunch, a festive dinner, or grabbing a catering order, you are getting an authentic taste of the Northeast.

Location and Accessibility

The flagship Red Hook Lobster Pound is perfectly situated at 284 Van Brunt St in the unique and charming neighborhood of Red Hook, Brooklyn, NY 11231, USA. The location itself offers a distinct, seaside-town feel that perfectly complements the authentic New England dining experience.

Getting there is part of the fun. While the Red Hook location is famously a bit removed from the nearest subway stops, it is conveniently located just steps from the Red Hook/Atlantic Basin NYC Ferry Landing, offering a scenic and relaxing route to your destination. The local bus service also has a stop that will drop you off nearly at the door. For those driving, the restaurant notes that free street parking is generally available nearby, though, as is true in most of New York, it cannot be guaranteed.

For all guests, accessibility is a priority. The facility is fully wheelchair accessible, including a wheelchair accessible entrance, seating, and restroom. They advise making a note in your reservation if you require special seating accommodations to ensure you are given enough space to dine comfortably.

Services Offered

The Red Hook Lobster Pound offers a comprehensive range of dining and service options to suit any occasion, from a quick afternoon bite to a full-scale catered event.

• Delivery, Takeout, and Dine-in are all available, offering flexibility for New Yorkers on the go or those looking to settle in for a meal. Delivery is managed through several third-party platforms.
• Full Dining Options including Brunch, Lunch, Dinner, Counter Service, and Dessert seating.
• Reservations are accepted and recommended, especially for brunch and dinner, to secure your table in this popular spot.
• Catering and Private Dining Room options are available for special events and large groups, with pre-fixed menus an option for parties of 20 or more.
• A daily Happy Hour is offered Monday through Friday from 4-6 PM, featuring deals on Oysters ($1.00), Frozen Drinks ($10.00), Gansett Lager ($5.00), Rose ($5.00), and Chardonnay ($5.00). Note: Happy Hour is for dine-in only.
• The restaurant is family-friendly, offering a dedicated Kids' Menu and high chairs for younger guests.
• Outdoor seating is available during the season, and Dogs are allowed outside.

Features / Highlights

Red Hook Lobster Pound is defined by a unique set of features that contribute to its celebrated status in the New York food scene.

• Identifies as Women-Owned: Co-founder Susan Povich has led the restaurant's success from a small storefront to a multi-location, nationally recognized name.
• Maine-Sourced Lobster: The restaurant’s foundation is its commitment to fresh, hand-picked lobsters imported directly from the Maine coast, ensuring superior taste and quality in every dish.
• Famous Lobster Rolls: Recognized nationally for some of the best lobster rolls outside of Maine, offering both the "Maine Style" (cold with lemon-mayo) and the "Connecticut Style" (warm with butter and lemon).
• Great Beer Selection & Cocktails: Featuring a full bar onsite with a focus on a diverse New York and New England beer selection, plus an array of specialty cocktails, including the unique LOBSTER CLAW BLOODY MARY.
• Cozy and Trendy Atmosphere: The ambiance is a modern take on a classic wharf-style lobster shack, making it a great spot for groups, tourists, and solo diners in a casual, welcoming setting that is also known as an LGBTQ+ friendly and transgender safe space.
• Full Accessibility: Completely wheelchair accessible (entrance, restroom, and seating).
• Happy Hour: Exceptional value is available through the daily Happy Hour on oysters, beer, wine, and frozen cocktails.

Contact Information

For reservations, inquiries, and to confirm current hours or services, please use the following contact details for the Brooklyn flagship location:

Address: 284 Van Brunt St, Brooklyn, NY 11231, USA

Phone: (718) 858-7650

What is Worth Choosing

While the entire menu showcases fresh seafood and comfort food, the must-try items at Red Hook Lobster Pound are unequivocally the Lobster Rolls. Whether you choose the cold Maine Style with a light, homemade lemon-mayo or the warm, butter-poached Connecticut Style, you are sampling the dish that made this Brooklyn spot a New York legend. For those looking for an even more decadent experience, the FRIED LOBSTER ROLL or the BLT Roll offer creative twists on the classic.

Beyond the rolls, the menu is packed with New England classics and comfort dishes, making a meal here an immersive experience.

• The Lobster Dinner or Seafood Boils: To experience the freshest catch, opt for THE LOBSTER DINNER (1.5 lbs. fresh Maine lobster) or gather a group for the First Mate or Captain's Dinner boils, packed with lobster, crab, clams, mussels, shrimp, and andouille sausage.
• Chowder & Bisque: Start with a cup of the creamy NEW ENGLAND clam chowder or the traditional Lobster Bisque to warm up on a cool Brooklyn day.
• Shareable Comfort: The LOBSTER CHEESE FRIES (fries topped with a five-cheese sauce and Maine lobster) and the rich LOBSTER MAC AND CHEESE are fan-favorite comfort food dishes perfect for sharing. The Garlic Biscuits are another highly popular starter.
• Dessert: Don't leave without trying the local specialty, STEVE'S KEY LIME PIE, a neighborhood staple, or the classic New England Whoopie Pie.

In a city with countless dining options, Red Hook Lobster Pound stands out by delivering an authentic, high-quality New England seafood experience with a warm, Brooklyn heart. From the perfectly toasted bun of a lobster roll to the fresh catch of the day, it's a neighborhood treasure that promises a delicious escape for every New Yorker.

Red Hook Lobster Pound

284 Van Brunt St, Brooklyn, NY 11231, USA