We came for the lobster roll but the calamari stole the show! Neptune Oyster is one of bostons most hyped spots, & we waited an hour + to try it all. Great service, cozy vibes, killer calamari, mid chowder, & a lobster roll that was all about the quality but lacked in the bun and topping department. I really wished Yelp had .5 ratings because this would be more of a 3.5 instead of a 3 because the service and atmosphere were incredible! I don't think it's worth the wait but I do think it's worth coming back to try more of the menu. read more

Neptune Oyster - Lobster roll! Wish it came with more toppings and the bun gets soggy so fast - Seafood Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

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This was my second time back here and it's just like I remember! We started off with the fried calamari and oysters. I really liked the different tastes from the variety of oysters. I think I could do without the calamari next time since it was just standard. For main course, I obviously loved the lobster roll. They also have a special pasta dish with lobster - loved the warm soupy dish with generous portions of lobster!! read more

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On a recent business trip to Boston, my first time in the city, I decided to wander through the North End and check out Neptune Oyster after hearing so much buzz. The long line spilling out onto the curb seemed like a good sign. I waited about 45 minutes for a single seat at the bar. Inside, the space is small but charming, with a handful of tables and mostly bar seating. I started with a "cup" of clam chowder, though be warned, it is closer to a bowl. The broth is light and on the watery side, not the creamy style I personally prefer, but it was packed with clams, which I appreciated. Next up, I ordered a half dozen oysters from their impressive raw bar. They had the best selection I saw in the area, with more than a dozen varieties from all over, and I chose a mix of Massachusetts oysters for a local taste. All were fresh and delicious. Of course, I had to try the famous lobster roll, especially since almost every table inside had one. I went with the hot buttered version. While the lobster meat itself was sweet and flavorful, the roll was heavy on the bread, not particularly warm, and overpowered the filling. The french fries served alongside were barely warm and so heavily salted that I could not eat them, and I love salt. I ended up eating the lobster and leaving both the bread and fries behind. Service at the bar was friendly and attentive, and the wine list had some nice options. Overall, I am glad I tried it for the experience, but on my next trip to Boston I will probably explore other spots in the North End instead. read more

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Waited an hour for a party of two on a Sunday evening. The clam chowder was very light. The lobster roll (hot) was very generous. Really loved the oysters we got. The cioppino was pretty fishy but I'm not sure how it's supposed to taste. Would probably pass on that one but would come again! Great service. Small unisex restroom. read more

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The lobster roll here is genuinely outstanding, buttery, generous, and fresh. It's a small space so expect a wait, but the quality makes it worth it. Service was friendly and efficient. Would have been five stars if the wait wasn't so long, but I'd absolutely come back. read more

Almost every time we walked by there the line was out the door. No reservations so try to pick an off time if you don't want to wait long. We walked right in at about 330ish and got a spot at the bar. The food was outstanding. The lobster roll is well worth it and the bucket of butter puts it over the top. The clams in the chowder were really fresh and not overcooked and just get the Wednesday pasta special if you happen to be there on a Wednesday, totally worth it. Service felt a bit gruff to start but warmed over the meal. read more

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I was in Boston for work, and thought I'd check out the famous Neptune on a Tuesday early evening. The line wasn't bad - I waited maybe 30 minutes. I sat at the bar, and I could tell the waitress was tired from tourists asking her questions / opinion on dishes. She kept it professional and managed to avoid giving specific recommendations but instead described the food. I respect that she wasn't trying to push anything! I ordered oysters, and lobster role with salad. Generous portions. I liked that the lobster wasn't doused in butter - the meat was perfectly tender and well cooked. The arugula salad was a refreshing combination. I can understand the hype - worth the wait! read more

Neptune Oyster - Maine Lobster Roll - Seafood Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

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Such a neat find! I came here based on a recommendation from a friend. I came here after my conference class late night so I only waited 15 minutes or so. I ordered two things: - Wellfleet clam chowder $15- the potatoes were harder than I'm used to and the soup was more liquidly, but it works! The flavor was deep and rich. So I'm thankful it wasn't too thick otherwise I think it would be too heavy. This is one of my fav chowders. Amazing flavor and great portion. - Maine lobster roll with a salad $42- the lobster portion was generous. It was fresh and cooked perfectly. I wish the bread was more toasted, it I'm not complaining because I ate it all. Salad was extra saucey. Next time I'll emphasize dressing on the side. Overall, really tasty place, I will come back again! read more

Neptune Oyster - Maine Lobster Roll - Seafood Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

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Food was great and service was good. The restaurant had a fun and inviting atmosphere. I enjoyed my time there and would revisit again.

This place takes no reservations and it's a small restaurant, so you may be seated with another party on the same table, which was different but very enjoyable. Bostonians are very friendly. The oysters are the freshest. The lobster roll was excellent. The fries were not. We ordered the lobster roll hot with drawn butter but our table mates informed us the traditional way is cold with mayo. But let me be honest here. I think we might have ordered over a dozen lobster rolls while in Boston and after a while, they all kind of taste the same. They're all really good. The sea bass dish with the savory kale/pancetta/mushroom sauce was incredible. If oysters are your thing, you must come here and order them from the raw bar. You can buy them as each, and there were a dozen or so varieties. read more

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We came Sunday night 6pm on memorial weekend. I knew to prepare for a line but this was a bit crazy. 2 hours! Kid u not. Guess the baseline draw + the holiday weekend + as our server later told us (several large parties that arrived at 530) But we are only here for the weekend so we bucked up and stood in line as passerbyers laughed and gawked at us line dwellers wasting away for "some oysters" Alas, I am proud to say the wait was worth every minute. We nestled into a comfortable shared bench where we joked with another couple about how nice it was to finally sit down. Right into the business. Our server thanked us for the sacrificial wait time and politely ran us through the menu. We ordered several types of oysters same crab claws. The fried clam appetizer, and the lobster roll. Oysters - remarkable. Our favorite was the "oishe" but all were incredible. Firstly - clean. No gunk or small pieces of shell leftover from the shuking. Secondly, SO flavorful. It we helpful to have the pallet guide paper which outlines flavors to look out for. The fried clam- should be illegal. So damn addicting. It came with this unique take on a tartar sauce that was so delicious. We ate every piece. The lobster roll - Pure and generous. Fresh and healthy portion of fresh lobster meat piled onto a toasted and buttered bun. Not a lot of mayo and butter smothered. It was all about the fresh taste and texture of the lovely lobster with the support of a large and complimentary bun toasted and artfully pre dosed with just the right amount of salty butter. Would I wait 2 hours again? No - I would have circled back later after the line went down (it did) Do we regret it? No. Neptune Oyster was incredible and an experience we will savor for years to come. read more

Neptune Oyster - Lobster roll - Seafood Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

Neptune Oyster 63 Salem St. #1 Boston, MA 02113 Neptune Oyster is one of those rare spots that manages to feel both iconic and intimate at the same time. Nestled in the heart of Boston's historic North End, this cozy little seafood haven makes a big impression from the moment you step inside. The space is tight, with just a handful of tables and bar seats, but that only adds to its charm. The star of the show here is, without a doubt, the oysters. Neptune boasts an impressive and ever-changing selection of East and West Coast varieties, each shucked to order and served with pristine presentation. And then there's the legendary hot lobster roll--arguably one of the best in the city. Served overflowing with tender lobster meat and drenched in warm, decadent butter. Pair your meal with something from their thoughtfully curated wine list, which is surprisingly extensive for such a small spot. Be warned: Neptune Oyster does get busy, and there's almost always a wait. But don't let that deter you--it's well worth the time. Go early, put your name in, and take a stroll around the neighborhood. This place is a Boston staple for a reason. Cozy, flavorful, and full of character--Neptune Oyster delivers every time. read more

Neptune Oyster - Maine Lobster Roll - Seafood Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

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Food was AMAZING! A bit on the expensive side, but oysters were very good and their bluefish pistachio tartar and lobster roll were to DIE for! Workers were very friendly and helpful, and even though the restaurant is a bit small, it's definitely worth it! read more

Neptune Oyster - Bluefin pistachio tartar - Seafood Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

We went with an expectation that there'd be a wait but were able to grab a seat at the bar in about 20 minutes. The service was great and everything came out really quickly. I refrained from ordering everything since this ended up being a late lunch. The oysters, chowder, and razor clams were amazing. The Neptune pearl were my fave. It would have been worth a longer wait and should have asked if they have an option to put your name down and come back because I'd like to know for next time! read more

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Excellent lobster roll. Sat at the bar which was perfect. Sevice was prompt and friendly. read more

Neptune Oyster - Maine Lobster Roll - Seafood Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

got here around 4:40PM, and there were only two couples in line so in total waited like 7-10 minutes. Very tasty lobster rolls, we got warmed with butter. Ambiance it's like a small hole in the wall but it adds to the aesthetic lol read more

Neptune Oyster - Maine Lobster Roll - Seafood Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

To avoid the long lines, we arrived at 11:30 on a Thursday in October. There were a couple of tables for two still available, but we opted for the last two seats at the raw bar. We ordered a nice bottle of Vermentino and a dozen local MA oysters. It was our first time finding the Cuttyhunk variety on a menu, but I can tell you that we will definitely be seeking them out in the future. If not for the fact that they were possibly the best I have ever had, then certainly for the fact that they are produced by a female oyster farmer from a small island near the Vineyard. We were told by our friendly server that she brings them in fresh every Thursday morning. As we delighted in our oysters and wine, we watched the line start to form outside. Next we shared the white anchovies (boquerones) from the crudo menu. They were delicate and delicious, floating in a shallow puddle of grassy EVOO. Only thing missing was a little bread to sop up the oil (a crime to waste it!), and our server graciously accommodated our request with some freshly prepared crostini. For our mains, my husband ordered the Redfish and chips with malt vinegar aioli. Let me tell you, we lived in London for many years and he has eaten plenty of fish and chips, but this super tender redfish with perfectly crisp crust was nothing short of outstanding. After much deliberation (and a little help from our server), I selected the Spanish octopus...and what an excellent selection it was! The most tender and flavorful octopus I've ever had. Sous-vided and then charred, then served over a lovely romesco sauce and topped with charred cauliflower florets, it was truly an inspired combination. This was our first visit to Neptune Oyster, but it will not be our last! I'll be returning on a Thursday for more of those Cuttyhunks and another helping of that Spanish octopus! read more

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The oysters were cleaned well, really fresh! I've had plenty of good oysters and this is def at the top. I like the variety they have, everything was good! You get medium to large sizes. Won't regret getting a dozen or more. The fried calamari tastes great, it's not on the menu but you can ask for it in person. ‍ The inside is pretty small, hence I could see the line being 1hr+ easily on a busy day. Cost rack is in the front, if you sit at the bar not a lot of room. You're basically shoulder to shoulder. read more

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We heard the hype about Neptune Oyster and decided to see for ourselves...that it was worth it. We were lucky enough to wait in line for only 15-20 minutes since we were a party of two, while parties of 4 or more had to wait quit a bit. Tiny little space reminiscent of restaurants around Europe, with half of the seating at a bar and the other half at shared tables. We ordered a dozen oysters, including both East and West coast varieties. A bowl of clam chowder, which had large pieces of clam meat and wasn't too creamy or heavy. We topped our meal off with two lobster rolls, one hot with fries and one cold with salad. I think the cold was the winner for us!! Definitely glad we checked out this Boston staple! read more

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been here a few times over the years. quality is consistent! oysters are always fresh. have had the lobster roll, monday lobster pasta dish, clam chowder, johnny cakes; all were really good, really fresh. will keep returning. read more

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The oyster tower was delicious and fresh! The clam chowder was very watery ... runny a few clams but too watery... The fish was delish and so was the pasta... service was ok at best as we were a bit rushed as we waited for a hot minute and were seated 30 min to closing. The company was Amazing my family and I shared a booth with a couple of lawyers from another state there on business and the gentleman was going to be married soon to his nurse or doctor fiancée.... He and his friend were just great company!!! read more

Neptune Oyster - Clam chowder - Seafood Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

Service was efficient. Plate was not presentable and average tasting. I got the lobster soup and it was good, meat was soft and fresh. I also got the lobster roll and the meat was overcooked a bit. Some parts were chewy. And the whole thing sits in a butter which softens the bread. I really wish the butter was on the side instead. Decent flavor. I was really excited to have this be the best lobster roll and it was not for me. Maybe it just wasn't a good day here. Oh and these two items almost $100 including tip. read more

Neptune Oyster - Lobster Roll - Seafood Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

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I was visiting in town and my cousin who is a foodie took me to Neptune Oyster. After visiting I can see why people wait in line down the street to eat here. We did a sample of all small plates. We got the bluefin crudo, scallop crudo, clam chowder and the johnnycake. Everything was fabulous but my least favorite was the chowder. I like my chowder little thicker. My surprising favorite was the Johnnycake. I wouldn't have ordered it unless my cousin convinced me. I recommended it on every visit. I can't wait to return to Boston to sample more delicious seafood on their menu. read more

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Must go for oysters in Boston. Space is small but the secrete is to go for lunch and beat the north end crowds

The lobster rolls were so fresh and yummy. I wish the butter sauce was a bit more seasoned but other than that it was great. The clam chowder had lots of tender clam but I wish it was slightly thicker. The wait was long and there was limited seating inside. It was quite crowded at the bar and you have to squeeze past people. I'm happy I got to try but I don't really like the crowdedness of it. read more

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Neptune is perhaps one of the most popular restaurants in Boston and the wait time (no reservations) is indicative of that. We waited for about an hour, but it moved at a fairly steady pace. Once inside, it's a cozy little venue with tons of character and an extensive raw bar menu. We opted for the Neptune Plateau as our primary course, which was solid, but maybe a little too off the beaten path. The oysters were solid, the shrimp were large and very good, but the lobster and crab cocktails were a bit underwhelming. Not bad, just not as exceptional as we've had elsewhere. The clams, anchovies, etc. were all just not really to our liking (preference). I think had we ordered our own items from the raw bar, we would have been a bit more likely to enjoy our experience just a bit more, but when in Boston... The hot lobster roll was also solid, but I think I would give a slight nod to the one at James Hook over this one. The clam chowder was very good though, and if you enjoy a salty take, it's a good order. Neptune is definitely a Boston must, and stick to those more trustworthy raw bar items for your own palette unless you really want the adventure! read more

Loved the selection, The tiny but quaint location, and the drink options provided. Our server was knowledgeable and helpful with selection a good combination of oysters. read more

Neptune Oyster - Seafood Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

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We came for lunch and had to wait in line but it wasn't too bad. Seating is a bit crowded though. In terms of the food, everything we ordered was great. We had the fried calamari which came highly recommended by the patrons seated next to us. That marinara sauce really worked with the crispy app. We got the expensive but really delicious and filling lobster rolls. So fresh and cooked to perfection. Scrumptious!!! Hubby got some raw oysters which I sadly couldn't partake as I'm expecting. He liked them, too. Know that you'll be spending quite a bit, but definitely worth a visit. read more

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It's a tiny place, so we waited 30-40 min to get in. The oysters were some of the freshest ones I've ever had. The lobster roll and the fritto misto were really good and surprisingly filling! We got the oyster piggybacks as an appetizer, but it was okay. The cornbread was cold and almost too sweet for the rest of the flavors. The service was A++++ - it's what made us want to come back despite the wait. read more

Neptune Oyster - Seafood Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

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Absolutely worth the hype and wait. This cute little shop is full of charm and great food. Everything we ordered was fantastic- especially the Neptune Johnnycake, which we weren't sold on initially but got due to our servers rec. The clam chowder perhaps was not standout, a bit watery, but I still enjoyed it. Boston has so many great seafood options but Neptune should definitely be on your list. read more

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A trip to Boston would not be complete without a stop at Neptune Oyster! Got there about 10 mins after they opened and only had to wait about 15-20 minutes for a table for 2. I've heard lines can get long but they definitely met my high expectations and lived up to the hype! --Oysters: Fresh and (mostly) locally sourced, appreciated how they had specific recommendations. Also loved how each oyster was very well cleaned and shucked --Jonnycake: A sweet-savory combo that was interesting as it was yummy! Loved the crunchy edges of the pancake that contrasted with the chewy center. The umami from the fermented fish paste and the roe went well with the sweet syrup. --Sea urchin toast: Sea urchin compound butter on top of warm bread --Squid ink risotto: A Friday special that featured a good amount of squid and lobster pieces. Risotto was well cooked and the sauce was well-seasoned! --Lobster roll: Very generous with the lobster and the bun was warmed and buttered. I felt like each piece was pretty fresh and appropriated seasoned. Our server was really nice and polite. The restaurant itself is pretty small but the line moves quick! Food comes out pretty quick too. Worth checking out if you've never been! read more

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Outstanding, perfection and amazing!!!. The food was the best seafood I have ever experienced. And, yes there will be a long wait at the door, but it is absolutely worth it. read more

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Had a wonderful time at Neptune Oyster, starting off with not having to wait! We were lucky enough to roll in at about 3:30 on a Wednesday and grabbed two spots at the bar. Our server, who was a little brusque at first, gave me two different tastes of wine, which helped us land on a bottle of the Picpoul to pair wonderfully with all the seafood we were going to enjoy! The Lobster Roll (hot) with fries ($41) was very tasty, full of lobster and paired with a vat of extra butter. The Clam Chowder ($15) had delicious clams in it, but I wasn't in love with the soup itself. The Wednesday pasta special of clams with bottarga ($35) was delicious. A pricey meal, but very good with an energetic and attractive space. We considered trying to go here again, but there were other delicious places to try before we left the city. read more

This place is super popular for seafood, and there's always a long line outside. They don't take reservations, so you just have to hang tight. We ended up waiting over two hours because we had a party of four. We also let a party with someone disabled get seated ahead of us. A couple could've probably snagged a spot at the bar quicker. The oyster selection is huge, just like the name suggests, and they're seriously delicious. The food overall was really good and kind of unique. So, that was our experience--long wait, but totally worth it for the tasty food! read more

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There was a line out the door when we stopped by at 12:30pm on a Saturday. The wait was an hour long for 4 people. The restaurant is quite small. There is both bar seating and table seating. Ordered the Maine lobster roll with hot butter and arugula salad. This was good and very filling. The lobster pieces were big! They did not skimp out. It was $39 for a roll. The arugula salad was just okay, nothing special about it, but I preferred that over the fries. It was with a lemon and olive oil dressing. read more

Neptune Oyster - Seafood Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

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During my recent trip to Boston, I was excited to visit Neptune Oyster after hearing rave reviews about their lobster rolls. Unfortunately, my experience was far from what I had anticipated, and it ended up being one of the most disappointing dining experiences I've ever had. Here's why: Neptune Oyster is a small, cozy seafood spot located in the charming North End of Boston, a neighborhood known for its vibrant atmosphere. The restaurant has a great selection of seafood, with wine and beer options. My friend and I arrived around 4 pm on a Wednesday, and there was no line, so we were able to walk right in. After standing near the bar for a few minutes without any acknowledgment from the staff, it wasn't until we made eye contact with a server that we were greeted and seated. Despite this interaction we were still eager to try the menu. As the evening went on the service was cold and unwelcoming. Every time we asked our server a question, she responded annoyed. She never checked in on us, nor did she ask if we needed anything during our meal. To make matters worse, we observed her being warm and friendly with other customers yet, when she came back to us, her attitude was noticeably different, almost as if we were an inconvenience. The lobster roll had nice sized chunks of lobster but it was unfortunately lacking in seasoning. All in all I would not recommend this restaurant because of the poor customer service. After reading several other reviews where guests mentioned similar negative interactions with the staff including being yelled at. To spend your hard-earned money at a place where you don't feel valued as a customer is sad. There's plenty other seafood spots in Boston that you could have a better experience at. read more

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First time in Boston and that meant I was hunting for lobster rolls! Did my research and Neptune Oyster was the overwhelming favorite. Stopped here around 6 pm on a Wednesday and must have gotten super lucky because we waited for five minutes. We ended up sitting at the bar, but I didn't really care because...again, five minute wait. Can't complain! Overall, I was very impressed by the food itself as well as the plentiful oyster offerings. A rundown of what we ate: 1. Lobster Caprese: A great starter! There was so much lobster on top of the dish that I totally forget there was actually caprese on the bottom of it! Not too heavy and a sign of good things to come. 2. Oysters (Neptune Pearl, Katama Bay, Cuttyhunk, Unicorn, Kumamoto, Oishi) and Jonah Crab Claws: There were SO many oysters to choose from that it was hard to pick. All of them were so good! The crab claws were good too, but I would probably skip on these as it was a big pain in the ass to actually eat them. 3. Wellfleet Clam Chowder: Can't come to Boston and not eat clam chowder too right? 4. Main Lobster Roll (hot with butter): This is what I came for and boy it did NOT disappoint. Huge chunks of lobster on top of a a great lobster roll. Absolutely superb! 5. North End Cioppino: This was the dish that surprised me. I like cioppino in theory, but in reality it can be a letdown. Not this one! The fish and seafood were super fresh, the sauce wasn't too heavy, and having rice instead of noodles was actually a welcome change. Really enjoyed this one. Staff were great here. Despite it being very busy in here, everyone in here kept things moving. Glad I got the chance to eat here without a long wait. I'm not sure I would be willing to wait longer than 30 minutes, but I would come back. read more

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Stunning seafood in a charming spot that feels like a cozy neighborhood spot. Came 5 minutes after opening for lunch and were sat right away at the bar. The place was already full and bustling. We only sampled a few med-salt oysters, but I ended up wishing I'd made them my whole meal because they were AMAZING, just fresh and perfect and made somehow even more perfect with their mignonette. Our entrees were the seared scallops and the Acadian Redfish and chips. The scallops were buttery and tender, but the sweet turnip whip didn't quite hit with me, and I felt some acidity would have been nice. The Acadian Redfish was similarly beautifully cooked and flaky, but didn't taste like it had a lick of salt on its own. The included malt vinegar aioli was great, but also necessary to add flavor to every bite of fish. Overall, the expertly-cooked seafood and fun ambience will definitely bring us back, and I can't wait to try the other items on the menu! read more

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Dropped by Neptune Oyster after a long day after hearing great things about their lobster roll and oysters! I got there around 5PM on a Wednesday and there were only a couple seats still open. I got sat at the bar and was quickly greeted by friendly staff. I ordered the lobster roll with fries and some oysters from their sheet. The oysters were pretty good, but the sauce that comes with it really brings the flavors together. The lobster roll was packed with lobster and came with a giant side of fries. I do with there was a little more flavor to the lobster though. read more

Neptune Oyster - Seafood Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

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Neptune Oyster is worth every bit of the hype. I always start with a bottle of wine and let the waiter pick and I've never once had a bad rec. The Johnnycake is a must, and my husband and I usually split the lobster roll so we can try a second entrée (always something new and always a win). If Uni is on the menu, don't hesitate. The room is clean and light in mood but lively and full of energy. It's friendly and cozy, so even when you're packed in with everyone else it feels fun instead of annoying. The best trick is showing up ~20 minutes before opening to beat the line. I bring every out-of-towner here, and it never disappoints -- never a bad bite. I'm trying to write overdue reviews for some of my favorite and most repeated restaurants, but I am very unorganized so here are some photos that come up in my iPhone when I search "Neptune". read more

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