One of the greatest treasures America has to offer its residences and visitors is the Great American Diner. Though prolific in the states of Pennsylvania, New Jersey and other Northeastern states, every state has a handful of beloved diners that will always be filled with loyal traditionalists, Sunday families looking for a post-church bite and aficionados of American cuisine. Sure, the diner may have European roots, but I am going to give America the credit for perfecting the diner it, grease stains and all.
Such an institution of Americana is Twohey’s, a San Gabriel Valley joint that originated in 1943 Pasadena before moving to neighboring Alhambra for bigger digs. I have a varied history with Twohey’s, my opinion teeter-tottering from “I cannot imagine my life without this dish” to “kill it with fire” and everything in between. One thing Twohey’s seems to consistently get right, and better at, is lobster. The 2012 Lobster Fest is ON through September 3rd and my mom, two aunts and I recently ventured over to give into unadulterated balls to the wall lobster mania.
Lobster Sliders $14.95
Mom and I split the lobster sliders, which came with tomato, lettuce, pickle spear, coleslaw and a creamy Thousand Island-like dressing. A bit of a steep price for only two sliders, but gracious were they flavorful. Seasoned with finely diced peppers and other spices, I don’t regret that we purchased these but hesitate to fully endorse them due to the price. However, I will not hesitate to endorse that coleslaw as mom and I fought over it the whole time.
Maine Lobster Salad $13.50
Now here is a great bang for your buck while still being healthy! A big plate generously piled with rich mixed greens, red onions, tomatoes, cucumber, croutons, a light vinaigrette, with lobster claws, tail and legs to partake in. My aunts’ split this and were incredibly happy with their choice.
Twin Lobster Rolls $19.95
All four of us embarked on the prized menu item, the ever coveted lobster roll. I already had the skinny on how tasty it is as I had ordered a single order to go a few days prior ($10.95 and they goofed my order by giving me potato chips when I specifically said I did not want them.)
Finally able to indulge with a side of no-salt added French Fries, this lobster roll takes an extra large piece of dense, toasted white bread, and fills it up to the rim of the crusts with gorgeous chunks of lobster meat and shredded lettuce. I like to ask for some lemon to squeeze on for that extra zing.
Speaking as someone who has had the honor of visiting Maine and dining on inexpensive lobster rolls from a wee shack by the ocean, I can say these are pretty darn close. I know there are other restaurants out here in L.A. that stick a fancy price tag on just a single sandwich, but I would take Twohey’s lobster rolls any day of the week.
Another sure-fire win for Twohey’s is their dessert – specifically the classic hot fudge sundae, which everyone ordered with the exception of me as I unlocked a Foursquare special, earning me a free mini sundae. All four of us opted for the bittersweet fudge over milk chocolate as it is a house specialty and even jarred and sold to enjoy at home. Oh, and those jars could totally shimmy into a Christmas stocking. HINT. HINT.
Regular Sized Bittersweet Hot Fudge Sundae $5.45
bittersweet fudge | whipped cream | roasted almonds | cherry
Mini Bittersweet Hot Fudge Sundae (free with Foursqaure check-in)
I’m not going to insult the memory of this dessert by describing it to you. You’re just going to have to trust me and try it yourself.
While the prices can be a little steep, depending on the dish, overall we were completely satisfied with our luxurious lobster meal. Should I have another opportunity to treat myself to Twohey’s before the Lobster Fest comes to an end, I will go for the lobster mac and cheese. A whole Maine lobster, lobster pasta, lobster bisque and surf and turf are also available while supplies last. Hurry on down!
Lobster Fest: Now through September 3rd!
Twohey’s Restaurant
1224 North Atlantic Blvd.
Alhambra, CA 91801
(626) 284-7387
http://www.twoheys.com
Hours:
Sun-Thurs: 7am-11pm
Fri-Sat: 7am-Midnight
