Seemor
Red Hook Lobster PoundB+Worth Trying
284 Van Brunt St, Brooklyn, NY 11231
· Seafood restaurant
· 4.4/5 Google (2287 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating
A destination for fresh Maine-style seafood and lobster rolls with lively vibes and solid service, but pricing is steep and quality can swing on boils and sides.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Red Hook Lobster Pound delivers strong food quality anchored by excellent lobster rolls and fresh seafood, supported by friendly, attentive service and a charming Red Hook waterfront setting. However, inconsistent execution on boils, bisque, and sides prevents grade A territory, and pricing feels steep for portion sizes on certain items. The restaurant excels at its core strengths but shows enough variability to warrant caution on off-menu selections.
Restaurant Summary
The room feels warm and bustling with a casual, seaside energy that fits Red Hook. Reviewers describe staff as friendly and helpful when on their game, and several call out quick fixes and thoughtful touches. One diner summed it up: "The roll was warm and buttery, and service made the meal." The cooking leans New England comfort with top-notch ingredients rather than flash. Connecticut and Maine lobster rolls are the draw, supported by excellent mussels, chowder, and classics like fish and chips. A few items stumble—boils can run bland and bisque consistency varies—so stick to strengths if you want the best showing. Families do fine here thanks to kid-friendly staples like fish and chips, fries, and simple salads, and some guests mention coloring sheets. Portions can feel modest for price on certain items, so set expectations and consider sharing a whole lobster dinner if you have seafood-loving kids.
At a Glance
- Fresh, well-executed lobster rolls (CT style leads)
- Lively casual vibe with indoor/outdoor seating
- Boils and bisque are inconsistent in seasoning and temperature
- Pricing is high; portions can feel small on some items
- Strong owner engagement with actionable responses
What Sets It Apart
- Maine-style lobster focus
- Robust raw bar with East/West oysters
- Happy hour oyster and drink deals
What People Love
- Warm, buttery CT rolls with generous lobster
- Fresh shellfish and solid raw bar
- Summery drinks and happy hour oysters
- Friendly, attentive servers who guide choices
Points of Concern
- Seafood boils can be under-seasoned or bland according to several diners
- Lobster bisque quality varies; occasional lukewarm reports
- High prices and occasional small portions for starters like lobster tail
- Some reports of rushed table limits and service unevenness at peak times
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$62-$92 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- If price-sensitive, share mussels ($24) and a 6oz CT roll ($48) plus fries ($8)
- For groups, First Mate ($175) feeds 2-3; add a salad to balance richness
- Seek crisp sides: request fresh fries if texture matters
Perfect For
- Craving a classic lobster roll without leaving the city
- Casual celebrations with seafood and cocktails
- Weekend Red Hook strolls with a destination meal
- Date nights that are relaxed but special
Location Insights
Area: Gritty-seaside Red Hook with indie shops, breweries, and waterfront views; draws destination diners and weekend explorers.
Safety: Generally safe with active foot traffic on weekends; quieter blocks feel isolated at night.
Nearby: Near waterfront, ferry stop, breweries, art spaces, and key lime pie bakery; some distance from subways.
Red HookRed Hook is a waterfront neighborhood with a gritty, industrial past that has evolved into a vibrant dining and arts scene. It features a mix of trendy restaurants, artisanal food shops, and casual eateries, often frequented by locals and visitors seeking unique culinary experiences away from more commercialized parts of Brooklyn.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday12:00–21:00
Tuesday12:00–21:00
Wednesday12:00–21:00
Thursday12:00–21:00
Friday12:00–22:00
Saturday12:00–22:00
Sunday12:00–21:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating
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