I was so let down by the Highroller Lobster Co in Portland. I was excited by the reviews and even the looks of the place.
Our First Visit
We came by just after 5pm on Friday, and Highroller had a private party taking place in the booth section of the restaurant.
The window tables and bar on the right side had people seated and eating.
The four of us took a small table at the left side window when the people there got up to leave.
When we tried to order, were told by the host that we could only order takeout as they were reserving the window table for the private party, too. There was no indication that the table was reserved.
Two of us ordered takeout and two of us left.
The two who ordered takeout reported that the lobster roll was just okay (we’d been eating lobster rolls all week as a comparison).
Our Second Try
The next night, we went back to give them another try, hoping our first experience was a fluke.
We called ahead (about 8:30pm) to see if there were tables (there were) and we told them our party of 4 were 7 minutes away.
When we arrived the tables were full.
The Argumentative Hostess
I explained to the hostess that we had called and we should have a table. She not only told me that we were wrong, but that I must have called the wrong number.
When I pulled up the number on my phone to validate with her if it was their number, she baldly said, “I don’t know,” and went about her business.
I was furious being treated this way and if it weren’t for my hungry friends, would have left again and been done with it.
After a 20-minute wait, we were allowed bar stool seats behind the hostess station.
How to Order at the Highroller Lobster Co
After reviewing the menu and deciding what you’d like, you have to line up (again) at the hostess station or at the cash register at the bar and wait for someone to come help you.
When you order on a tablet, you are asked for a tip % to be added and pay there up front.
They give you a number flag for the table. There is not much service here. It’s a fast-food style delivery.
Someone must have felt guilty about the way we’d been treated this night, so they offered us an open booth if we’d like to move. The booth was quieter and made it easier to talk.
The Food at Highroller Lobster Co
I ordered the Lobby Pop, a lobster tail. It was a decent size for $10, but a bit over cooked (chewy/hard) and isn’t much of a meal, more an appetizer.
Our companions (different people this time) enjoyed their lobster rolls ($19).
I can’t recommend this place as it’s just awful service and they seem to be resting on their laurels.
I’ve never been treated so poorly by a hostess in any other restaurant.
As the tourist season is just starting, I feel sorry for visitors who stumble into Highroller Lobster Co.
There are so many better options. Eventide is hundreds of times better in atmosphere and service, and their lobster roll is so much tastier. You can even catch your own lobster and have it cooked up for you.
Disappointed May, 2019
The Highroller Lobster Co.
104 Exchange St, Portland, ME 04101
+1 207-536-1623
