Lobsterfest at Red Lobster is arguably the most anticipated event on the seafood lover’s calendar. It is the time of year when the butter flows a little more freely, the biscuits are stacked a little higher, and the menu transforms into a dedicated tribute to the “King of Seafood.” Whether you are a fan of the classic steamed tail or looking to try something adventurous like lobster-topped pasta or a zesty seafood boil, understanding the costs involved helps you plan the perfect indulgent night out.
As we dive into the 2026 season, the question on everyone’s mind is simple: how much is Lobster Fest Red Lobster going to cost me? While prices can fluctuate based on your specific geographic location and the market price of seafood, there are standard price points and exciting new menu additions that define this year’s celebration. From the returning “LobsterChops” to the customizable “Lobster Lover’s Dream,” here is a deep dive into the pricing, portions, and value you can expect at Red Lobster right now.
Understanding the 2026 Lobsterfest Pricing Structure
Red Lobster has designed the 2026 Lobsterfest menu to cater to both the budget-conscious diner looking for a special treat and the hardcore seafood enthusiast who wants it all. Generally, you can expect the core Lobsterfest entrées to start in the mid-$40 range.
For many guests, the entry point for a dedicated Lobsterfest meal sits around $45.99. This covers several of the premier specialized dishes that combine lobster with other high-quality proteins or unique preparation styles. If you are looking for more variety, such as the “pick three” options, the price can climb toward $55.99 or higher. It is important to remember that these prices typically include the legendary unlimited Cheddar Bay Biscuits and, in many cases, two sides of your choice.
The Stars of the Show: Featured Entrée Prices
One of the most exciting aspects of this year’s festival is the return of nostalgic favorites alongside modern culinary twists. The pricing for these specific dishes reflects the complexity of the preparation and the amount of lobster meat included.
The Lobsterfest Duo is making a massive splash this year. Priced at approximately $45.99, it features “LobsterChops,” which are grilled Maine lobster tails wrapped around tender sea scallops. This dish also includes a whole roasted Maine tail, offering a variety of textures and flavors. For those who enjoy the hands-on experience of a traditional coastal meal, the Lobsterfest Boil is available for around $46.99. This impressive spread includes Maine lobster tails, a dozen shrimp, corn on the cob, and red potatoes, all tossed in your choice of flavored butter, such as Cajun or roasted garlic.
The Create Your Own Lobster Lover’s Dream continues to be a fan favorite because of its flexibility. You can choose two or three lobster preparations to build your plate. A “pick two” version usually starts around $45.99, while the “pick three” version, providing a truly massive amount of food, sits near $55.99. Options for this custom feast often include the Maine lobster tail, rock lobster tail, and specialized dishes like the new Lobster Pasta au Gratin or the Crispy Dragon Teriyaki Lobster.
New Flavors and Creative Additions
In 2026, Red Lobster has leaned into bold, global flavors to keep the festival fresh. The Crispy Dragon Teriyaki Lobster is a standout addition, featuring a crispy Maine tail tossed in a sweet-and-spicy sauce. This item is often bundled into the mix-and-match deals, but it highlights the trend of moving beyond simple drawn butter.
Another newcomer is the Lobster Pasta au Gratin. This dish utilizes both Maine and langostino lobster meat, folded into cavatappi pasta with a rich, three-cheese lobster sauce. This is a particularly filling option and is often viewed as one of the better “value” items on the specialized menu because of its density and richness. While these items are priced as part of the larger Lobsterfest deals, they add significant variety to the experience.
Appetizers, Drinks, and Extra Fixings
Your final bill will likely be influenced by more than just the main entrée. Red Lobster’s 2026 Lobsterfest also features thematic cocktails and premium appetizers that can elevate the meal.
Specialty cocktails like “The Lobstar“—a triple-citrus margarita served in a collectible claw shaker—can cost around $17 in high-traffic areas like New York City, though they may be closer to $14 in other regions. Other drinks, like the Shoreline Spritz or the Dockside Sipper, generally range from $12 to $15.
If the main meal isn’t enough, you can add “add-ons” to any dish. Common additions include a half-pound of snow crab legs for about $12.99, garlic shrimp scampi for $6.49, or even upgrading your side to creamy lobster mashed potatoes for an extra $5.99. These small additions can quickly turn a $45 meal into a $70 experience, so it is wise to keep an eye on the side-item upgrades.
Tips for Getting the Most Value During Lobsterfest
- Many diners find that the Lobsterfest Boil or the “Pick Three” Lobster Lover’s Dream is large enough to share between two people, especially when you factor in the unlimited biscuits.
- Additionally, joining the My Red Lobster Rewards program is highly recommended before you go. Members often receive exclusive coupons or “points” that can be redeemed for free appetizers or desserts, helping to offset the cost of the more expensive lobster entrées.
- Lastly, check for weekday specials. While Lobsterfest items are available all week, Red Lobster occasionally offers “Daily Deals” that might feature a lobster-related dish at a slightly lower price point on specific days, such as Steak and Lobster Wednesdays.
FAQs
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How long does Lobsterfest at Red Lobster usually last?
Lobsterfest typically begins in early to mid-January and runs for several weeks, often extending through the end of March or early April. However, specific end dates can vary by year and location based on supply and popularity. It is always a good idea to check with your local restaurant to ensure the special menu is still active before heading out.
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Can I get Lobsterfest deals for takeout or delivery?
Yes, most Lobsterfest menu items are available for To Go orders through the Red Lobster website or various delivery apps. However, keep in mind that “unlimited” items like Cheddar Bay Biscuits are limited to a specific number per order when you are not dining in. Some items, like the Lobsterfest Boil, are specifically designed to be served in “shake-and-serve” bags, making them very travel-friendly.
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Are the Cheddar Bay Biscuits still free during Lobsterfest?
Absolutely. The unlimited Cheddar Bay Biscuits remain a staple of the Red Lobster experience, even during Lobsterfest. Every entrée comes with a basket of warm biscuits, and your server will continue to replenish them throughout your meal at no extra charge.
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Is the Lobsterfest menu the same at every location?
While the core items like the Lobster Lover’s Dream and the Lobsterfest Duo are standard across the country, specific pricing and the availability of certain regional “catches” or drinks may vary. Prices in metropolitan areas like New York or Los Angeles are often a few dollars higher than in smaller suburban markets.
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What is the most expensive item on the Lobsterfest menu?
The most expensive single-person item is usually the “Create Your Own Lobster Lover’s Dream” when you select the “Pick Three” option, which often reaches $55.99. If you are looking at the menu broadly, the “Ultimate Family Feast” or large-scale seafood bundles intended for groups can exceed $100, but for individual Lobsterfest-specific plates, the $55 to $60 range is the typical ceiling.