A steamed lobster is a fine delicacy. However, digging into the delicious meal requires breaking open the shell. Here’s how to do it in a way that allows you to get the most out of this dish.

How to Eat Lobster

1. Gather the Tools

Eating a fresh lobster can be a messy affair. Your favorite seafood restaurant should provide the tools necessary to enjoy your meal as easily as possible. These will include a bib to protect your clothing, a specialized fork, a tool to crack the shell, and a bowl of either butter or some other condiment for dipping.

2. Begin With the Claws

Holding the body with one hand, gently twist off the claws one at a time with the other hand. If the claws are banded closed, remove the bands.

Then, use the nutcracker or other tool to crack open each claw. Once opened, use the fork to remove the meat inside. Dip the meat in the butter and enjoy.

3. Move on to the Legs

Lobsters have eight skinny legs that contain meat. It’s a bit difficult to get to, but you can either crack the legs using the tool or your teeth to loosen the meat. Then, dip the leg section in the butter and suck out the meat.

4. Save the Tail for Last

Most aficionados agree that the tail has the sweetest meat, so save it for last. With the tail unfurled, twist it away from the body.

You’ll see some green substance inside; do not eat this. It’s the lobster’s liver and should be washed off or set aside because it can contain contaminants like mercury.

Then, crack the tail and use your finger to push out the meat. There will be a dark, vein-like structure that you also should not eat, as it is the lobster’s digestive tract. After removing this vein, dip the meat in the butter and enjoy.

For delicious lobster, come to Brookside Inn Restaurant in Oxford, CT. This family-owned Italian and seafood restaurant has been in business for more than 50 years. View their extensive menus, including steak, wine, and seafood, on their website. Call (203) 888-2272 to place an order or ask about reservations.