Business Profile: Westbrook Lobster

can be found in Wallingford and Clinton. Patch interviewed manager Matt Lariviere, whose father bought the business in 1989 (Matt was 9), and expanded the specialized lobster market into the restaurant business. 

Do you live in Clinton: While I have never lived in Clinton, I have always been a shoreline resident. I grew up in Westbrook and after college I spent time in Guilford and Madison, before settling in Branford.

How long has Westbrook Lobster been in business: The business opened as a seafood market in 1957 at the foot of the Singing Bridge in Westbrook. My family purchased the business in 1989, when I was just nine years old. In 1995, Westbrook Lobster moved to its present location in Clinton in order to expand to a restaurant in addition to the seafood market.

History of the business: Westbrook Lobster has been constantly evolving since opening in Clinton in 1995. At first we simply served fried seafood dinners, steamed lobsters and limited baked and broiled dishes. All orders were placed at the counter, we called a number and you picked it up. Westbrook Lobster is a far cry from its early beginnings. We are now a full service, award-winning restaurant featuring a varied menu (now selling more baked and sautéed dishes than fried), a friendly staff and full bar.  We still have our fresh seafood market and have added a catering department to handle everything from weddings to summer parties.

What is the most popular menu item: Lobster has always been our top item. It is featured steamed, baked, roasted or picked out in a roll.   

What is your favorite on the menu: My favorite is the Seafood Paella. It's our own take on the Spanish classic, loaded with clams, shrimp, calamari, sausage and chicken in an aromatic saffron broth. Yum! 

What makes Westbrook Lobster unique: You won't find seafood any fresher. Due to our adjoining seafood market, we have the ability to provide our guests with quality seafood you can trust. Simply look at the fish in our market display case and know that is what you'll be getting.

What do you like best about town: I love the small town, beach feel. The people are great too. Everyone is down to earth and friendly.

What do you least like about town: If I had to pick something, I would say the quietness during the winter months.

Any personal thoughts you'd like to share:  Being involved in this business at such an early age has exposed me to a wealth of friendly and loyal customers. We have a large group of regular guests that I am very thankful for.

Westbrook Lobster | 346 East Main Street | 860-664-9464 | www.westbrooklobster.com