Calorie Breakdown for The Capital Grille's Lobster Bisque
Understanding the nutritional details of your meal is key to mindful dining. The Capital Grille, known for its fine dining experience, provides a nutrition guide that offers transparency on its menu items. Here is the specific calorie information for their popular lobster bisque, which is available in two sizes:
- Lobster Bisque - Cup: Contains 320 calories.
- Lobster Bisque - Bowl: Contains 370 calories.
Deeper Dive into the Bisque's Nutritional Profile
Beyond just the calorie count, the overall nutritional profile of the lobster bisque reveals why this luxurious soup is a decadent treat rather than an everyday staple. A cup-sized serving (320 calories) has a macronutrient breakdown that is predominantly fat. The bowl size (370 calories) follows a similar trend, as outlined by third-party nutritional trackers.
Key nutritional facts for the cup include:
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
- Sodium: 870mg
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Protein: 13g
For the bowl, the values are naturally higher:
- Total Fat: 29g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Cholesterol: 125mg
- Sodium: 1070mg
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Protein: 13g
The Ingredients Behind the Richness
So, what makes the lobster bisque so rich and creamy, and therefore higher in calories and fat? The primary culprits are the use of butter and heavy cream in the recipe. A traditional bisque extracts flavor by sautéing lobster shells and aromatics like carrots, celery, and onions in butter, which forms a flavor base. This stock is then combined with heavy cream to achieve its signature velvety texture. In contrast, the lobster meat itself is a lean protein source, but its nutritional benefits are overshadowed by the rich dairy and high sodium content from the stock and seasoning.
Comparison of Capital Grille Soups
To put the lobster bisque into perspective, it's helpful to compare its nutritional content with other soup options on The Capital Grille's menu. Below is a table contrasting the popular New England Clam Chowder with the lobster bisque, using data from the restaurant's nutrition guide.
| Soup Item | Serving Size | Calories | Total Fat (g) | Sodium (mg) | Protein (g) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lobster Bisque | Cup | 320 | 26 | 870 | 13 |
| Lobster Bisque | Bowl | 370 | 29 | 1070 | 13 |
| New England Clam Chowder | Cup | 220 | 16 | 650 | 6 |
| New England Clam Chowder | Bowl | 310 | 22 | 930 | 9 |
As the table clearly shows, the lobster bisque is the more calorie-dense option, with both the cup and bowl sizes containing more fat and sodium than their clam chowder counterparts. The higher fat content is a direct result of the use of heavy cream and butter to create its luxurious texture.
Tips for Enjoying Bisque Mindfully
If you are watching your calorie or sodium intake, but still want to enjoy a taste of this classic dish, here are some strategies to consider:
- Opt for the cup: Choosing the cup over the bowl is a simple way to reduce your calorie, fat, and sodium consumption. The cup offers the same great flavor in a smaller, more controlled portion.
- Share with a companion: The bowl is large enough to be shared as a rich appetizer between two people, allowing each to savor the flavor without overindulging.
- Pair with a lighter entree: If the lobster bisque is your appetizer of choice, consider pairing it with a leaner entrée, such as a simply grilled fish or a salad with a light vinaigrette. This can help balance the overall nutritional impact of your meal.
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water before and during your meal. This helps with satiety and can also help your body manage the higher sodium load.
- Save it for a special occasion: Given its rich nature, the lobster bisque can be reserved for special events or celebrations, rather than a regular part of your dining routine.
Conclusion
In summary, the lobster bisque at The Capital Grille is a rich and flavorful appetizer, with a cup containing 320 calories and a bowl containing 370 calories. The high fat and sodium content are primarily due to the butter and heavy cream used to create its signature creamy texture. While the lobster meat itself is a lean protein, the soup is best enjoyed as an occasional indulgence rather than a regular menu item for those monitoring their calorie, fat, and sodium intake. By choosing the smaller portion or pairing it with a lighter main course, you can still enjoy this fine dining treat mindfully. For more detailed nutritional information, you can always consult The Capital Grille's menu nutrition guide, which is often available on their website.
