

Visit our Maine-inspired shack in Orange County, in the heart of Newport Beach on Balboa Island. Enjoy our signature lobster, crab, and shrimp rolls, served alongside New England clam chowder, Cape Cod potato chips, and craft sodas. Luke’s is your spot for a taste of New England on the West Coast!
Seafood restaurant serving Maine-style lobster rolls with toasted buns, plus clam chowder.
Hours
| Friday | 11 AM–7 PM |
| Saturday | 11 AM–7 PM |
| Sunday | 11 AM–7 PM |
| Monday | 11 AM–7 PM |
| Tuesday | 11 AM–7 PM |
| Wednesday | 11 AM–7 PM |
| Thursday | 11 AM–7 PM |
Address and Contact Information
Address: 329 Marine Ave, Newport Beach, CA 92662
Phone: (949) 877-3778
Website: https://lukeslobster.com/pages/balboa-island
Menu Photos
Order and Reservations
Order: Order online
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Reviews
Yes, it’s on the pricier side—but there’s a reason. Luke’s sources its lobster directly from the cold waters of Maine and keeps it minimally dressed: chilled, wild-caught meat, lightly tossed in butter or mayo, served on a toasted split-top bun. No fillers, no shortcuts. What you’re tasting is pure freshness, and it shows in every bite.
The lobster and crab rolls are generously packed and exceptionally clean in flavor—sweet, tender, and never fishy. The chowder is equally impressive: rich without being heavy, full of real seafood, and exactly what you want by the water.
We sat outside, which made the experience even better. Watching Balboa Island go by while eating seafood that tastes like it just came off the boat feels very on-brand for this location. The staff was genuinely friendly, efficient, and happy to explain the menu or sourcing, which adds to the experience rather than making it feel transactional.
Luke’s Lobster isn’t trying to be flashy. It’s confident in its product—and rightfully so. Expensive, yes. Worth it, absolutely. If you want super-fresh seafood, classic execution, and a relaxed waterfront meal on Balboa Island, this is a must-stop.
The service was quick. The place itself is tiny, probably room for a few people max, so it’s not the kind of spot you hang out at forever. More of a grab your roll, and keep it moving kind of vibe.
Overall, tasty, fresh, and definitely worth checking out when you’re on the island.
As we entered, my fiancé slightly moved a table to help accommodate a family member who uses a wheelchair. I stood in line to order, and within seconds, the cashier (a heavier-set male with glasses) loudly and rudely yelled at her that we weren’t allowed to sit until we had ordered, citing limited seating. We calmly explained we understood and were fine waiting, but just needed to make sure our family member would fit with the wheelchair.
Even the two women in front of us told the cashier they were taking their food to go and that we could use their seats. They said it directly to him and us, but instead of showing understanding or flexibility, he continued to be condescending, speaking over us and refusing to listen. He kept repeating himself as if we were being difficult, even though we were just trying to make space for a disabled guest and were willing to wait to order.
The final straw was when he made a very inappropriate comment suggesting, “I’m on the clock, so I have to be careful with what I say,” clearly implying that things could escalate if he wasn’t working. It was unnecessary and completely unprofessional.
We were so uncomfortable by that point that we decided to leave without ordering. What makes this especially frustrating is that I had come on Sept 5 around 6PM and had a great experience, excellent food and a very kind young woman who made helpful recommendations.
Sadly, I won’t be returning. What could’ve been a great outing turned into a stressful and disappointing moment for my entire family. I truly hope management addresses the lack of professionalism and basic customer courtesy we experienced.