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My dear husband is bringing me to STT for my 50th birthday the week after Easter. Although we have been there several times by ship, it will be our first weekly stay. I have learned so much from all of you on this forum and am very grateful to you Islander, and all of the participants for helping to make this forum possible. You folks are great! Now for my question...
Lobster is my most favorite food in the world and my better half wants to get me a Caribbean lobster for my birthday dinner. I have only had Maine lobster to date. We don't want a fancy place though as I would prefer to just wear my flip flops and watch a beautiful sunset. Is Caribbean lobster a lot different that Maine lobster which I prefer boiled? Any suggestions as to a relaxed, fun place to get the best lobster on the island would be much appreciated!
33 days and counting!!
Deb
Absolutely no view, but Duffy's on Thursday night. 2 lb for $32 when we were last there and well worth it--cooked perfectly. Caribbean lobster is sweeter, has no claw meat but more meat in the body/tail.
I've no doubt that by answering your question and saying what I'm going to say that a whole bunch of people will rise up in self righteous indignation and dun my opinion unmercifully.
IMHO, Caribbean lobster can't TOUCH a Maine lobster where taste is concerned. I'm sure some posters will tell you where you can get fresh Caribbean lobster on island but the majority of restaurants which serve lobster here rely on frozen tails. Locally caught Caribbean lobster is, compared to local Maine lobster, very tasteless comparatively and needs to be stuffed with something to be truly palatable.
Just doesn't work for me and, after 25 years here, one of the real taste treats I miss is fresh Maine lobster served on site with a bib and lots of butter. Oh and those lobster rolls too! Let the comments roll in! Cheers!
And I have to respond to Sapphire08's comment that the Caribbean lobster is sweeter than a Maine lobster. With all due respect I must disagree.
Caribbean lobster are different. They are also easy to overcook. I love the lobster at Robert's, which is stuffed and broiled (I think!) It is not a sunset view, but if you call and ask, they might be able to put you right on the beach... Clink champagne glasses and happy birthday!
I believe that Maine lobsters have more meat and are easier to cook. The Caribbean lobsters have less meat on them and can be a little tough.
I would go to Duffies but you had better call as many times they run out. My favorite is Roberts, however.
Billd
We have had both Maine and the Caribbean spiny lobster (on Andros Island in the Bahamas - not on the Virgin Islands) and my perception is that they are both very good. I think the environment had a lot to do with my fond remembrance of both, but the meat of both crustacean is just plain delicious. My readings on the lobster served at Duffy's (mentioned here by Sapphire Beach08) have been most favorable, so I will concur with that recommendation. I have been told that one can purchase Caribbean lobster in the grocery stores on St. Thomas to cook in ones villa. Is this not so STTResident?
Linward: Plaza Xtra used to have a live lobster tank but I haven't seen it there for quite some long time now/
Hook Line and Sinker in Frenchtown usually has live lobsters cooked to order - ask.
Last summer we had the Duffy's lobster, and it was wonderfully prepared, if not boiled then steamed whole lobster. I'm looking forward to it again. Am I correct in remembering that a couple of years ago they flew in Maine lobsters for lobster night?
If you aren't aware, Debfishes, one big difference between the two is that the Caribbean lobster does not have claws. Too bad because I love the claw meat.
I've found that at many upscale restaurants (in comparison to Duffy's) they serve a half stuffed (usually broiled) lobster. It's usually a hefty price, and to me not worth only half a lobster and a lot of breading. You may, however, find a great view at some.
If you can pass up the sunset view for a good lobster experience I'd say go to Duffy's. Go to another lovely restaurant on another night for that incredible romantic view and have a different fine meal.
Hmmm... I know it's been a while since I went to Duffy's for Lobster, but when I did, it was not caribbean Lobster, it was Maine Lobster!
How about Off the Hook, do they have Local Lobster? Another idea is to have a chef cook for you (if you are staying in a villa). I know of some fishermen who bring in Lobster as well. If you need any help in that area, let me know and I will hook you up!
the beach house at bolongo bay has a lobster night ... they are right on the beach and it is somewhat casual
Thanks so much for all the opinions! We have decided one night at Duffy's it is, but on my birthday, we're taking Sherri up on her generous offer to hook us up with a local fisherman. Hubby and I cook fresh Maine lobster all the time at home and it would be a very enjoyable evening just staying in our villa. We will have great views of the sunsets up on the hill. I'll have to do something special like baste them in rum butter....mmmm yummy. Any chef wannabes out there with other suggestions?
Debfishes,
Your plan sounds absolutely perfect. Everything you want. What a great way to celebrate a special birthday. I hope you'll write us a report about the evening.
I have been told that the Food Center will cook the lobsters for you at no additional charge. Can anyone confirm that?