Lobster Shack Cervantes has secured the title of WA’s Best Lobster Restaurant for 2026, emerging as the winner in Western Rock Lobster’s annual public-voted competition. This marks the second consecutive win for the Cervantes-based venue, which also claimed the top spot in 2025.
Close Competition and Record Votes
This year’s competition delivered one of the tightest results on record, with more than 2,000 valid votes cast across over fifty nominated venues throughout Western Australia. After a closely fought contest, Lobster Shack successfully defended its title, finishing ahead of Southerly’s Tavern & Restaurant in Port Denison and The Cray Seafood & Grill in Currambine.
New Perpetual Trophy Introduced
To mark the achievement, Western Rock Lobster will award Lobster Shack both the 2026 winner’s trophy and the newly introduced perpetual WA’s Best Lobster Restaurant Cup. The perpetual trophy will become a lasting symbol of excellence, with the winning venue’s name engraved each year and proudly displayed as recognition of the public’s support.
General Manager’s Pride
For General Manager Nikki Thompson, the award reflects the passion of the people who have supported the business throughout its journey. “Since opening our doors in 2010, our goal has always been to showcase Western Rock Lobster and where our story began in Cervantes,” Ms Thompson said. “We’re proud to share the story of our fishing heritage, our family business and our world-class seafood with visitors from around the globe, all while celebrating one of Western Australia’s most iconic and sustainable fisheries,” she said.
Sustainability and Industry Recognition
The Western Rock Lobster fishery is globally recognised for its sustainability credentials and world-leading management practices. Restaurants such as Lobster Shack play an important role in bringing that story to life, connecting diners with a premium local product and the people behind it. As the first venue to have its name etched onto the perpetual cup, Lobster Shack has earned a special place in the competition’s history. The achievement not only recognises its continued commitment to quality but also sets the standard for lobster dining experiences across the State.
Voter Prizes
The competition also rewarded four lucky voters, who will each receive a $150 voucher to the restaurant they nominated, along with a $100 Back of Boat voucher to enjoy during the Christmas season. The winners are: Sue Burgess (voted for Bib and Tucker, Leighton Beach), Natalie Griffiths (voted for Kailis Bros Leederville), Dipika Goswami (voted for The Cray, Belmont), and Gary Duffield (voted for Lobster Shack Cervantes). Western Rock Lobster thanks everyone who participated in this year’s competition and congratulates all nominated venues for helping connect the public with one of Western Australia’s most iconic and sustainable seafood products.
