Business & Tech

Connecticut vs. Maine: The Lobster Roll Challenge

Just in time for the 4th of July, A.C. Petersen's has started a competition between two New England favorites that bear the same name.

Regional debates over the “best” methods of food preparation are common – especially when it comes to discussions about grilled meats and other summertime favorites. 

In the South, especially North Carolina, there’s an ongoing debate about the “best” kind of barbecue. No, not a debate between a Weber grill and some other brand – but an ongoing regional competition like the one between Eastern North Carolina barbecue (“picked” from a whole pig, finely-chopped, in a vinegar-based sauce) vs. Western North Carolina barbecue which is traditionally coarsely-chopped pork shoulder in a tomato-based sauce.

Here in New England, we have some of the same regional distinctions between food groups bearing the same name. Lobster rolls are a prime example, and patrons of in West Hartford now have the opportunity to choose their favorite.

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In honor of the Independence Day holiday, A.C. Petersen’s has decked out their patio in red, white and blue lights, and has started a Lobster Roll competition.

Customers have a choice between two brand new menu items: the Connecticut Style Lobster Roll (real lobster meat mixed with warm butter) and the Old-Fashioned Maine Lobster Roll (chilled lobster meat dressed in mayonnaise, celery and seasoning).

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A.C. Petersen’s owner, Catherine Denton, said she experimented with several recipes until she felt each was perfected. “The thought was that we should offer both to appeal to all kinds of lobster lovers!” Denton said.

Denton came up with the idea for the Lobster Roll Challenge when she was updating her website with contrasting photos of the patio covered with heavy snow and in its current state – all decked out for summer.

The Lobster Rolls will be on the menu through Labor Day, as will a special strawberry shortcake, topped with fresh strawberries and A.C. Petersen’s fresh hand-whipped heavy cream.

 


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