Red Lobster is not cheap. But it's not as expensive as people think either. It all depends on what you order. Here's exactly what to expect on the bill when you're dining for two in 2026.
Budget dinner for two: $40 to $55. Mid range dinner for two: $60 to $85. Premium dinner for two: $90 to $130. All figures include tip but not alcohol.
Three Dining Cost Tiers for Two
We've created three budget tiers for couples. Each tier offers a different experience. Choose the tier that fits your wallet. Here is what you will spend.
Budget Dinner for Two
Two lunch specials or two lighter entrees. Water to drink. No starters or dessert. Still gets you two sides and free biscuits. Best order is two Garlic Shrimp Scampi at $12.99 each. Add two soft drinks at $3.99 each. Total before tip is $33.96. With 20 percent tip it is $40.75.
Mid Range Dinner for Two
Two main entrees, one shared starter, soft drinks. Comfortable relaxed meal. Best order is one Walt's Favorite Shrimp at $15.99. Add one Atlantic Salmon at $22.99. Share one Lobster Bisque at $8.99. Add two soft drinks at $7.98. Total before tip is $55.95. With 20 percent tip it is $67.14.
Premium Dinner for Two
Two premium entrees, drinks, shared starter, dessert. Special occasion level. Best order is one Ultimate Feast at $49.99. Add one Maine Lobster Tail at $34.99. Add two soft drinks. Share a Lobster Bisque. Share a chocolate dessert. Total before tip is $105 plus. With 20 percent tip it is $126 plus.
Alcohol is the biggest bill driver. Two cocktails add $18 to $24 easily. Desserts add $10 to $16 for two. Starters add $8 to $15. Stick to water and skip dessert. This saves $30 on a mid range dinner. You can enjoy the complimentary biscuits instead. They cost you nothing.
How to Save Money
We want to share some easy saving strategies. Follow these rules to keep costs low. Here are our top four tips.
Come on a Wednesday.
Steak and Lobster is only $24.99 per person. Two people eat premium for $50 before tip. It is the best deal of the week.
Use the lunch menu.
The lunch menu offers the same great seafood. Plates are $3 to $6 cheaper. It is available Monday to Friday until 3pm.
Skip the cocktails.
Two cocktails easily add $20 to your bill. Soft drinks or water save you real money. Stick to simple drinks.
Use My Red Lobster Rewards app.
Points build up fast with regular visits. Free items and discounts come regularly. It is completely free to join.
Date Night Budget Guide
Let's talk about a classic date night. You want a great experience without spending too much. The best date night budget is $70 to $85 for two. This covers a nice multi course dinner. You will leave feeling happy and full.
What should you order for this budget? Start with a Lobster Bisque to share. Then order two mid range entrees. We suggest the Atlantic Salmon and the Seaside Shrimp Trio. Share a Chocolate Wave Cake at the end. You'll have a fantastic date night. You will stay within your budget.
Related Red Lobster Price Guides
Check out our other menu guides before your date. You can browse the complete Red Lobster Dinner Menu page. It lists every single entree price. You can also view the rotating Red Lobster Daily Deals page. Want to see lunch options? Read the Red Lobster Lunch Menu guide. These pages will help you budget your next meal. You will find all the current prices there.
The Verdict
Red Lobster for two costs $40 to $130 depending on what you order. Budget tip: Wednesday deal, two people, $50 before tip. Hard to beat. Mid range tip: Two entrees, shared starter, soft drinks. Around $67 with tip. Premium tip: Ultimate Feast plus Lobster Tail. Budget $120 to $130 with tip.