The Mount Pleasant Seafood is one of the oldest businesses in the Lowcountry. It is located on the banks of the historic Shem Creek. Our 4th generation family business has been in the same location for more than 75 years and is known as the best place in the area for fresh seafood served with a side of southern hospitality.
As a seafood lover, I’m always seeking out the best places to get juicy, fresh shrimp near me. Shrimp is one of my favorite foods – their sweet succulence when cooked just right is hard to beat! However, quality can vary greatly depending on the source and freshness.
Having shrimp that’s inferior or tastes fishy can ruin a meal. That’s why I’ve learned the best techniques for finding great shrimp close to home, whether it’s the grocery store or restaurants near me. In this guide, I’ll share my tips to help you get your hands on the tastiest shrimp available in your area.
Check Out Your Local Fish Market
One of my top places to find quality shrimp is a local fish market or seafood shop, Many have fresh seafood counters with a frequently rotating stock I’ve discovered some markets even get shipments of shrimp daily straight from the docks!
The benefit of fish markets is you can see, smell and hand-pick the shrimp yourself. Look for plump, firm bodies with a healthy sheen. Avoid any with black spots or discoloration. Most markets sell both shelled and unshelled shrimp. I actually prefer unshelled – the shells protect freshness.
Prices vary but expect to pay $8-15 per pound for jumbo Gulf shrimp It’s worth it for the superior flavor and texture of the shrimp at a dedicated fish market.
Check Asian and Latino Grocery Stores
Another go-to source for fresh shrimp are ethnic grocers like Asian and Latin markets. These stores frequently carry big tanks of live shrimp straight from the water. This ensures peak freshness.
Select whichever shrimp look most active in the tank. Many also have frozen options if you just want raw shrimp to cook at home later. Prices range from $3-8 per pound.
While selection differs across neighborhoods, exploring the seafood at international markets can yield delicious finds. Don’t be afraid to try different shrimp species like black tiger shrimp from Asia or wild Mexican white shrimp.
See What’s Available Fresh at Mainstream Grocery Stores
For a convenient option, your mainstream supermarket seafood counter is worth a regular check. While selection is smaller than dedicated fish markets, the turnover is fast.
Look for plump shrimp with firm bodies and the heads still attached. This indicates they were recently shipped. Headless shrimp tends to be older. Focus on wild caught American shrimp from the Gulf or sustainable farm-raised options.
Avoid shrimp cocktail on ice, as it sits longer. Prices average $10-12 per pound at major grocers for raw jumbo shrimp. Overall quality is decent – just give it a sniff test.
Order Shrimp Delivery from Local Fisheries
For super fresh shrimp without leaving home, look into delivery options from local fisheries or docks. Many coastal and port cities offer direct-to-consumer programs.
It’s as simple as going online, choosing your desired shrimp, and picking a delivery date. The shrimp is overnighted straight from the boat, allowing you to skip stores!
Prices are reasonable and quality is sublime. Companies like Wild Alaskan Company and Sitka Salmon Shares provide shrimp along with their regular catches. Delivery fees apply but are worth it for just-caught flavor.
Eat Out for Hassle-Free Shrimp Meals
If preparing shrimp at home sounds like too much work, consider letting your local restaurants do the cooking! Eateries near me like seafood shops, chowder houses, and sushi bars offer ready-to-eat shrimp dishes.
Check menus and reviews to identify spots using quality ingredients. Places with good reputations source from reliable suppliers and handle shrimp properly. Though pricier than cooking yourself, it saves effort.
I suggest scouting happy hour deals for discounted shrimp cocktails and appetizers. And don’t forget all-you-can-eat shrimp fests!
Know How to Spot Quality Shrimp
No matter where you get it, make sure your shrimp meets standards of freshness:
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Loose, plump bodies with a slight natural curve. Avoid curled, limp shrimp.
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Translucent shells and a pearlescent sheen. Dull or murky shells indicate age.
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Firm, almost crunchy texture when raw. Meat shouldn’t be mushy.
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Mild, briny scent like the ocean. Strong “fishy” odor is a red flag.
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Bright pink or orange tint with visible veins. Discoloration means deterioration.
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Attached heads and legs if possible. Headless and peeled shrimp lack protection.
Seeking out high-quality shrimp does require a little extra effort. But it’s worth it knowing your shrimp dinner will be succulent, tender and bursting with sweet flavor.
How to Store Shrimp after Buying or Catching
Once home, proper storage preserves freshness and flavor. Here are my shrimp handling tips:
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If buying head-on shrimp, twist and detach heads before storing. The bodies keep longer.
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Rinse gently under cold water. Don’t soak shrimp or they’ll get waterlogged.
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For raw shrimp, lay individually on a paper towel lined pan in one layer. Pat dry.
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Cover the pan loosely and chill in the coldest part of the fridge. Use within two days.
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For longer freezer storage, spread shrimp in a single layer on a pan and freeze individually for 1-2 hours. Then transfer to a freezer bag.
Following my advice for the best handling methods will keep your shrimp tasting sweet and ocean-fresh!
Simple Ways to Cook Fresh Shrimp
While we’re talking shrimp, here are some easy cooking methods to try at home:
- Sauté in olive oil with garlic, lemon and herbs for a classic scampi
- Grill or broil lightly seasoned shrimp for an easy dinner or appetizer
- Bake stuffed shrimp with breadcrumbs, cheese and seasonings
- Toss into pasta dishes, risottos and stir fries for flavor and protein
- Steam in beer, wine or seafood broth infused with spices
- Bread or batter-fry for crunchy coconut shrimp, popcorn shrimp and the like
With so many options for preparing your haul, there’s no reason to get bored with shrimp!
