Doyle Samson and Sons — Review by Luke Martin
Twillingate, Canada
Luke Martin visits Doyle Samson and Sons in Twillingate, Newfoundland, and experiences what he describes as the best lobster roll of his entire life. The restaurant, housed in a charming old fishing shack with just eight tables, serves incredibly fresh local seafood including perfectly prepared lobsters. The meal culminates with an outstanding blueberry vanilla cake that becomes a highlight of the entire 24-hour Newfoundland food adventure.
What was great: Best lobster roll of their entire life, exceptional blueberry vanilla cake with vanilla sauce, fresh local seafood, beautiful sunset views, cozy intimate atmosphere with only eight tables in an old fishing shack
What could improve: Nothing mentioned
The Dishes
After a grueling hike to Hornyhead Cove, Luke arrives at Doyle Samson and Sons absolutely exhausted but ready to eat. The centerpiece of the meal is the lobster roll, which Luke declares without hesitation as the best lobster roll he has ever had in his entire life. The lobster is impossibly fresh, having been sourced from local waters and prepared with care. The companion dish, a shrimp pasta that Mink ordered, is described as phenomenal and rounds out the savory offerings perfectly. However, the true star of the evening emerges during dessert: a blueberry vanilla cake served with vanilla sauce. The blueberries used in this cake represent some of the finest Luke has tasted anywhere, and their unique quality shines through in every bite. The dessert is so memorable that it becomes the highlight not just of the meal, but of the entire 24-hour Newfoundland culinary journey.
The Experience
Doyle Samson and Sons occupies an old fishing shack that has been converted into an intimate dining establishment with only eight tables inside. The setting is quintessentially Newfoundland, with views of a beautiful sunset over the water that perfectly frame the dining experience. Despite arriving completely exhausted from their hike, the atmosphere and service immediately rejuvenate the guests. The restaurant feels authentically connected to its fishing heritage, with lobster traps visible as part of the decor and the sense that fresh seafood is being brought in constantly. The small size and rustic charm create an unforgettable dining ambiance.
Value & Pricing
No specific pricing is mentioned in the transcript, but the overall value proposition is clearly exceptional given the quality and freshness of the seafood served in such a special setting.
Notable Moments
This is honestly the best lobster roll I've ever had in my life.
The blueberries I tasted in New Finland are like none other. the best I've ever tried.
The restaurant also features prominently in Luke's reflection on the overall Newfoundland experience, with the meal serving as the perfect conclusion to their first day of exploration.
The Verdict
Doyle Samson and Sons represents everything special about Newfoundland dining: impeccably fresh local seafood prepared simply and beautifully, served in an authentic historic setting with genuine warmth. This restaurant is essential for anyone seeking the definitive lobster roll experience and wanting to taste Newfoundland's celebrated blueberries in an elegant dessert form. The intimate eight-table capacity means reservations are likely necessary, but the experience is absolutely worth the effort to secure.