Where to Buy Fresh Shrimp Near Me: A Guide to Finding the Freshest Shrimp in Your Area

Shrimp is one of my favorite foods. I love making shrimp scampi, shrimp tacos grilled shrimp kebabs and all kinds of other shrimp dishes. But to make the most delicious shrimp recipes, you need to start with high-quality, fresh shrimp. As a seafood lover, I’ve learned that not all shrimp is created equal when it comes to freshness. So I’ve put together this guide on how and where to find the freshest shrimp near you.

Check Local Fish Markets and Seafood Shops

My first recommendation is to check out local fish markets and seafood specialty shops in your area These types of stores are going to be your best bet for finding the highest quality, freshest shrimp Here’s why

• They have fast product turnover since seafood sells quickly. This means the shrimp hasn’t been sitting around.

• They work directly with fishermen or seafood suppliers to get fresh catches.

• They properly store and display the shrimp, keeping it on ice to maintain freshness.

• You can check the origin and harvest date, which are indicators of freshness.

• You can buy shell-on shrimp, which is a sign it hasn’t been previously frozen.

• The staff is knowledgable about their offerings and can make recommendations.

I like to look for seafood markets located near major port cities or shrimping areas, as they often have great contacts for getting fresh-off-the-boat seafood. Here in New Orleans, for example, Westwego Shrimp Lot is renowned for their super fresh shrimp from local Louisiana waters. Ask around, search online directories, or check seafood-focused review sites like Yelp to find the top-rated fresh seafood markets and fishmongers in your city or town.

Shop at Your Local Farmer’s Market

Another place I’ve had good luck sourcing excellent quality shrimp is my local farmer’s market. Many farmer’s markets have vendors that sell fresh seafood brought in daily from the docks. Because the shrimp hasn’t been frozen and shipped long distances, it retains sweetness and that just-caught texture.

Ask the seafood seller questions about where the shrimp is from and when it arrived to gauge freshness. I prefer Gulf shrimp from the US over imported shrimp, as it doesn’t have to travel as far. Choose shrimp that is firm and shiny with the shells still intact, avoiding any with an ammonia-like odor. For peak flavor and freshness, plan to cook the shrimp within a couple days of purchasing. Consult your local farmer’s market website to see if any vendors offer fresh seafood.

Check Asian Supermarkets

If you have any Asian supermarkets in your area, they can be great spots to find fresh seafood and shrimp. Often they carry exotic shrimp varieties you won’t find at regular grocers. Chinese markets in particular may stock live shrimp tanks. Selecting active shrimp and having them killed on the spot makes for the ultimate in freshness.

While you’re there, browse the freezer aisles too. Frozen shell-on shrimp that is individually quick frozen (IQF) shortly after being caught maintains quality almost like fresh. The quick freeze prevents large ice crystals from damaging texture. Vietnamese and Korean grocers also have great selections of fresh seafood. Shop around Chinatown if you have one nearby.

Know When to Buy Farm-Raised Shrimp

Though I prefer wild-caught shrimp from US waters, farm-raised shrimp can also be a good option at certain times. Shrimp farmed in fully recirculating systems have a smaller carbon footprint than imported wild shrimp. When buying farmed shrimp, look for certification from organizations like the Global Aquaculture Alliance or Aquaculture Stewardship Council. This indicates responsible practices were used.

Fall and winter are good seasons to buy farm-raised shrimp, as wild shrimp availability goes down in colder months. Opt for shell-on shrimp and check the harvest date, paying no more than $12 per pound. Buying direct from a local shrimp farm at the dock or a farmers market is ideal. Avoid cheap shrimp peeled and bathed in chemicals. Off-season wild shrimp has often been previously frozen.

What to Look For When Buying Fresh Shrimp

No matter where you purchase it, keep these guidelines in mind when selecting fresh shrimp:

• Look for glossy shells without spots or blemishes

• Make sure there’s no unpleasant fishy or ammonia odor

• Shells should cling tightly to the body and feel firm

• Eyes should be clear and legs intact

• Fresh shrimp meat inside is grayish-white in color

• Check for signs of damage like sunken black spots

• Ask when and where it was caught or harvested

• Raw, shell-on shrimp is preferable to peeled

• Farmed shrimp in the US, Canada and Northern Europe are good options