How Lobster Became a Gourmet Dish
Unsplash/ Louis Hansel
Lobster used to be a simple dish, but now it's seen as a treat all over the world. It's a popular choice at high-end restaurants and can be cooked in lots of different ways. You can have it whole, in soup, or just the claws!
How did lobster transform from a common, overlooked food to a staple in gourmet dishes?
The truth lies in a change in perception, and advancements in the supply chain.
The History of Lobster
In the past, lobster was far from a luxury item. According to Pacific Standard, it was even considered “the cockroach of the ocean.”
Doesn’t that sound appetizing!?
People viewed lobster as a common, lowly food because of the abundance and availability of it along the Northeast coast of the United States. During the early days of colonization, the Pilgrims found themselves embarrassed by the constant presence of lobster in their meals. William Bradford was reportedly ashamed that lobster was all they had to offer visitors.
The word “lobster” comes from the Old English term “loppe,” which means spider, hinting at its perceived unappealing nature. Lobster was so plentiful that it became a food staple for the poor, and was even used in unexpected ways. People fed it to their cats and used it as fertilizer.
Railroad’s Impact on Lobster’s Growth
Lobster became a “fancy” food in the 1800s. The railroad and refrigeration made it possible to send lobster to faraway places while it was still fresh. Trains brought lobster to cities outside New England, and people started to recognize it as something special.
People on the trains often tried lobster for the first time and thought of it as a rare and exotic food. Because they weren't used to eating it, lobster seemed like an exotic treat. This made more people want to try it. As it became easier to get lobster in cities like New York and Boston, it became a popular dish.
Lobster started to be seen as a food for the rich. Wealthy people went to elegant restaurants to eat it. Because it was linked to expensive dining, lobster earned its reputation as a luxurious, exclusive food.
Unsplash/ Andre Davis
Cracking Open Luxury
By the early 20th century, lobster had firmly established itself as a luxury item. The classic surf and turf became a symbol of extravagance in fine dining. Today, lobster is commonly featured in many premium seafood dishes, such as lobster bisque, lobster rolls, and even lobster mac & cheese. As demand continued to rise, so did the price, and by the mid-1900s, lobster was seen as a true gourmet item.
The cost of lobster reflects its luxury status. The average price of hard-shell lobster in Massachusetts is approximately $12-15 per pound at the supermarket.
Beyond its rich flavor, lobster is also known for its health benefits, including being a protein-packed food that supports brain function and overall wellness.
Lobster’s Influence Beyond the Plate
Did you know that lobster is not only a status symbol in the world of food but also in the fashion industry? High-profile designers like Dior and Maison Margiela have showcased lobster-themed outfits, further cementing its role as a symbol of exclusivity and luxury.
Craving Lobster?
Does all of this talk about sweet and delicious seafood make you want some lobster? Come by Timoti's Seafood Shak to try our lobster rolls, or order them online.