Does Panera Have Lobster Rolls? A Look at the Chain’s Seasonal Seafood Offerings

Lobster rolls are a classic New England summer treat – chunks of tender lobster meat tucked into a toasted bun and dressed simply with mayo and lemon. For those who don’t live near the coast, enjoying fresh lobster rolls can be difficult. That’s why many get excited when chains like Panera offer lobster rolls as limited-time seasonal items. But does Panera have lobster rolls on their menu right now? Let’s take a look at what the cafe chain is offering this summer.

A Brief History of Panera’s Lobster Rolls

In summer 2019 Panera launched two lobster dishes – Lobster Roll and Lobster Mac & Cheese. They were introduced as seasonal items available for a limited time at select locations. The lobster dishes were an instant hit with customers and developed a loyal following. However, in 2020 and 2021 Panera did not bring back the popular lobster menu items, much to fans’ disappointment.

After a three year hiatus, Panera finally announced the return of both the Lobster Roll and Lobster Mac & Cheese in May 2022. They are once again being positioned as limited-time summer offerings available through the season at participating cafes.

What’s in Panera’s Lobster Roll?

The Panera Lobster Roll features chunks of lobster claw and knuckle meat mixed with a lemon tarragon dressing. The lobster is served in a toasted New England-style roll. Reviews of the sandwich praise the generous portion of lobster and the overall freshness of the ingredients. With whole lobster claws visible it delivers on its seafood promise.

Prices range from $22.99-$25.99 for the sandwich alone or $20.49-$23.49 as part of a You Pick Two combination with soup or salad. For the cost, it provides solid value compared to other chain lobster rolls.

When and Where Can You Get It?

As of summer 2022, Panera’s Lobster Roll is available at nearly 200 locations across the following states:

• Connecticut
• Delaware
• Maine
• Maryland
• Massachusetts
• New Hampshire
• New Jersey
• New York
• Pennsylvania
• Rhode Island
• Vermont
• Virginia

Based on previous years, the Lobster Roll will likely be offered through the end of summer 2022 while supplies last. Those on the West Coast or in landlocked states may be out of luck for now. With popularity growing, Panera may expand availability to more markets in coming summers.

Panera’s Other Lobster Item: Lobster Mac & Cheese

In addition to the Lobster Roll sandwich, Panera also brings back its popular Lobster Mac & Cheese each summer. This dish starts with the chain’s classic Mac & Cheese recipe, with hearty elbow macaroni in a creamy Vermont white cheddar cheese sauce. It’s then topped with lobster claw and knuckle meat and a sprinkling of buttery toasted Panko breadcrumbs.

The Lobster Mac & Cheese is available in small and large sizes, ranging from $9.99-$19.99 depending on location. Like the sandwich, it’s a pricey but appealing seasonal indulgence made with real lobster.

Why Are the Lobster Items Limited-Time Offerings?

There are a few reasons Panera only offers lobster dishes for a short time each summer:

• Limited supply – Lobster is wild-caught, so there’s a finite amount available seasonally when lobsters are most abundant.

• High cost – Lobster is one of the most expensive seafood ingredients. Keeping prices affordable for customers means limiting its time on the menu.

• Novelty factor – Offering lobster only in summer helps drive demand and maintains its status as a sought-after seasonal treat.

• Regional appeal – Lobster has the most appeal for East Coast customers who are used to eating it in summer.

By making lobster menu items limited-time specials rather than permanent additions, Panera manages cost and inventory while building excitement around these coastal favorites each summer.

Customer Reviews of Panera’s Lobster Dishes

Based on reviews, Panera’s lobster rolls and mac & cheese tend to earn solid marks when they return to menus each summer. Customers praise the ample amount of real lobster included and say the dishes are unique, high-quality options compared to the rest of the chain’s offerings. Some feel the prices are slightly elevated, but overall food and service reviews are positive.

Many Panera fans in non-participating states express disappointment that limited availability prevents them from enjoying the lobster items. Customers report hoping the dishes become summer staples and expand to more locations in future years.

Does Panera Sell Lobster Year-Round?

No, currently the only times Panera offers lobster on the menu is during the limited-time summer promotions of Lobster Roll and Lobster Mac & Cheese. The chain does not have a year-round lobster dish or permanent lobster entree.

Some speculate we could see more lobster from Panera in the future based on its popularity. A new regular menu lobster sandwich or salad would attract seafood fans. However, for now the cafe sticks to its successful strategy of making lobster an exciting warm-weather seasonal exclusive.

Other Places to Get Lobster Rolls

While Panera keeps their lobster rolls a summer-only offering, other restaurants and chains provide additional options for getting your lobster fix:

• Red Lobster – National chain with Lobster Lover’s Dream dish and seasonal Lobster Lover’s Surf & Turf.

• McDonald’s – Has previously offered limited-time lobster rolls at New England locations.

• Cracker Barrel – Summer seasonal Lobster and Shrimp Roll in coastal markets.

• Subway – Occasionally test markets or regionally offers a lobster sandwich.

• Luke’s Lobster – Maine-based chain with locations across U.S. focused on authentic lobster rolls.

• Local seafood shacks – Coastal spots especially in New England serve classic chilled lobster rolls.

Keep an eye out this summer for when Panera’s claws return! Their lobster dishes may only be around for a couple months, but they deliver a satisfying taste of the season.