Visiting the Aquidneck Lobster Company on Bowen’s Wharf in Newport, RI

Loved by locals and tourists alike, the Aquidneck Lobster Company on Bowen’s Wharf in Newport, Rhode Island has so much to offer. Next to Bowen’s Wharf’s quaint old world style, the Aquidneck Lobster Company is a stand-alone destination all by itself. It is as if it is the grand finale for the pier.

Soon after moving to Rhode Island, I asked around for opinions on where the best place is to find live lobsters. I wanted to bring lobsters home and prepare them myself. It was recommended that I visit the big lobster restaurant on the wharf over in Newport. So, my husband, son and I headed out one early morning.

First, the main pier on the wharf is delightfully inviting. The charm of its original seaport days is maintained, and there is an array of small shops to browse through. It is all surrounded by a 180 degree panoramic view of docks and large boats. It’s a great lively atmosphere with the calls of seagulls and smiles of patrons. As you make your way to the end of the pier, you cannot miss the Aquidneck Lobster Company.

Compared to the other buildings, it is very large. Outside, you are introduced by way of a raw bar. I don’t know about you, but when I see an awesome raw bar, I am drawn to plop down and order at least a ½ dozen of something! (I did.) Afterward, we entered the first section, a large seafood-on-ice warehouse style room with tanks of newly caught lobsters lining the walls. It sounds great in this area. You hear water movement and the mechanics of large tanks, comparable to that of an aquarium. It’s exciting.

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After the warehouse section, you can continue through to the bar and restaurant. We were there on an off-weather, chilly day, and therefore, opted for inside seating. We decided to have an early lunch at the casual, comfortable inside bar. (I had more awesome raw shellfish.) We had great conversations with several members of the staff too.

After lunch, we went back to the tanks and selected our live lobsters to take home, our main mission. The man working in this area was exceedingly friendly, and we could tell that he was happy and proud of his work. Our whole experience at the Aquidneck Lobster Company was fantastic. It became the only place I purchased live lobsters from in Rhode Island. Since, we have moved. This is one of the places we truly miss.

Image credit – photo titled, “Aquidneck Lobster Company and Lobster Bar” via creative commons