Does Costco Sell Lobster Tails? A Guide to Finding Delicious Lobster at Your Local Warehouse

Lobster is considered one of the most decadent and indulgent seafood treats. With its sweet succulent meat and iconic red shell it’s no wonder why lobster is a popular choice for special occasions and vacations. But enjoying lobster doesn’t have to break the bank – your local Costco warehouse may offer lobster tails at a fraction of the price you’d pay at a restaurant!

In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about buying lobster tails from Costco, including:

• Are lobster tails available at Costco?
• What types of lobster tails does Costco sell?
• How much do lobster tails cost at Costco?
• What are the lobster tail options at Costco?
• Tips for selecting, storing, and preparing Costco lobster tails

Let’s dive in and find out where you can find lobster tails at Costco!

Does Costco Sell Lobster Tails?

The good news is yes, Costco does sell lobster tails! Lobster tails are considered a seasonal item, but they are generally available for purchase at Costco warehouses from late spring through early fall when lobster is in peak season.

You’re most likely to find lobster tails stocked in the frozen seafood section at your local Costco They offer both wild-caught and farm-raised lobster tail options over the course of the season

Availability can vary by location, but most Costco warehouses carry frozen lobster tails while they’re in season. Your best bet is to check with your local store’s seafood department to confirm availability and options.

What Types of Lobster Tails Does Costco Sell?

Costco offers lobster tail varieties from cold water regions like Maine and Atlantic Canada. The two main types you’ll find are:

Maine Lobster Tails: Prized for their sweet, tender meat, Maine lobster tails offer the classic lobster flavor. Costco sells Maine lobster tails in a variety of sizes, ranging from 5 to 8 ounces each.

Rock Lobster Tails: Also called spiny lobster or langouste, rock lobster tails have firmer meat with a slightly sweeter, brighter taste compared to Maine lobster. Costco typically sells rock lobster tails sourced from the Caribbean.

In addition to raw, shell-on tails, you may also spot value-added options like lobster tails stuffed with seafood or pre-sautéed in butter.

How Much Do Lobster Tails Cost at Costco?

One of the biggest perks of buying lobster tails at Costco is the savings compared to other grocery stores or restaurants. Lobster is notoriously expensive, but Costco’s buying power translates into lower prices.

On average, you can expect to pay:

• Maine Lobster Tails: $13 to $15 per tail for a 1-pound tail
• Rock Lobster Tails: $9 to $12 per tail depending on weight

Keep in mind that per-pound pricing means larger tails will cost more than smaller tails. But the unit pricing still provides significant savings compared to other retail options.

For convenient value packs, Costco sells:

• 12-Count Maine Lobster Tails: $160 ($13.33 per tail)
• 10-Count Rock Lobster Tails: $120 ($12 per tail)

Buying in bulk multiples can lower the per-tail cost even further.

What Are the Lobster Tail Options at Costco?

Beyond basic raw tails, Costco also sells upgraded lobster tail choices like:

• Stuffed Lobster Tails: Lobster tails hand-stuffed with shrimp, scallops, crab meat, and cheese.
• Butter-Basted Lobster Tails: Raw tailsindividually wrapped and basted in garlic-infused butter.
• Lobster Tail Dinner Kits: Raw tails with seasoning butter and sides like risotto or potatoes.
• Caviar-Topped Lobster Tails: Take luxury over the top with lobster tails topped with caviar!

For entertaining or gifting, you may also spot seasonal finds like holiday lobster tail platters or party trays with lobster during peak summer and winter holidays when demand increases.

Tips for Buying, Storing, and Cooking Costco Lobster Tails

To make the most of the lobster tails you buy from Costco, keep these tips in mind:

• Check sell-by dates: Since the tails are previously frozen, check dates to ensure freshness. Use within 2-3 months for best quality.

• Keep frozen until ready to use. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. Do not refreeze thawed tails.

• Cook from frozen if desired. No need to thaw – just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

• Boil, broil, grill, or bake. Classic boiling or broiling lets the lobster flavor shine. Grilling adds smoky depth.

• Watch cooking times. Depending on size, lobster tails take 8-12 minutes. Check frequently to avoid overcooking.

• Use leftover butter. If cooking raw lobster tails, reuse leftover melted butter for dipping or drizzling.

• Pair with lemon and herbs. A squeeze of lemon brightens the rich lobster meat. Chives, parsley or tarragon add freshness.

• Indulge in steakhouse-inspired surf and turf. For an elegant meal, serve lobster tails alongside grilled filet mignon or NY strip steaks.

From romantic date nights to beachy summer gatherings, lobster is a dish best shared. With its premium quality and affordable pricing, Costco is undeniably one of the easiest and economical ways for lobster lovers to indulge at home. Stop by your local warehouse today to discover their current lobster tail selection!