Lobster is one of the most beloved seafood delicacies, famous for its sweet and tender meat Fresh lobster is a real treat, but finding it near you can be a challenge if you don’t know where to look. This complete guide will walk you through all your options for getting fresh lobster close to home

Checking Local Seafood Markets and Fishmongers

The first place to look for fresh lobster is your local seafood market or fishmonger. Many seafood shops order live lobsters and cook them fresh to order When calling around, ask specifically if they sell live or fresh cooked lobster, not just frozen tails

Some of the best seafood markets for fresh lobster include

• Ocean Seafood Depot – This market in Newark offers fresh seafood at great prices, including live lobsters cooked to order. They’re known for amazing sangria too!

• Popular Fish Market – With lobster cooked fresh daily, this Newark shop is a go-to for fresh seafood. Expect friendly service and a great selection.

• Seabra Marisqueira – A favorite for their diverse seafood selection, this Portuguese spot in Newark has incredible fresh lobster and shellfish dishes.

• Crab Palace – From live crabs to fresh lobster and more, this is a top seafood market in Newark for awesome shellfish.

Don’t be afraid to call around to several fish shops and markets in your area to compare. Let them know you’re looking specifically for fresh lobster. Many will even hold or order live lobsters for you if you request ahead.

Trying Lobster Dishes at Local Restaurants

Another great option for fresh lobster prepared near you is going out to eat! Many restaurants place regular orders for live lobsters and prepare them to order for lobster dishes.

Seafood restaurants, upscale steakhouses, and Portuguese eateries often have fresh lobster available. Check out the menus and daily specials for lobster rolls, stuffed lobster tails, lobster pasta, lobster risotto, etc.

Some top rated Newark restaurants for fresh lobster include:

• Seabra Marisqueira – Their mariscada with fresh lobster, crabs, shrimp and more is incredible.

• Spanish Pavillion – Known for their huge paella pans with fresh lobster and seafood flavors.

• Don Pepe – This upscale Spanish restaurant has delicious fresh lobster dishes daily.

• Hook and Reel – For more casual dining, they offer tasty fresh lobster along with Cajun seafood options.

• Casa Vasca – An amazing menu with seafood prepared daily, including fresh lobster specials.

Calling ahead to check on availability is smart, as fresh lobster often sells out each day. Going at opening or during off-peak times can improve your chances.

Placing a Special Order with Local Stores

If your regular grocery store or local seafood shop doesn’t normally stock fresh lobster, ask about placing a special order. Many stores will work with seafood suppliers or local fishermen to fulfill customer requests.

Let them know the quantity you need and your ideal timing. Often a week’s notice is appreciated. This approach takes a bit more planning, but lets you get fresh lobster tailored to your schedule.

Even large chain grocers may provide this service at their seafood counter or meat department. Plus some independent local stores pride themselves on fresh seafood and will happily place special orders.

Purchasing Fresh Lobster Online

Ordering fresh lobster online for delivery is easier than ever today. Companies like The Fresh Lobster Company ship live lobsters overnight direct to your door.

They offer everything from live lobsters to cooked lobster, lobster tails, lobster meat, seafood gift baskets and monthly clubs with free shipping. Ordering online lets you get incredibly fresh seafood without leaving home.

Do some research to find reputable online seafood companies with fast fresh shipping and great reviews. Make sure to specify overnight shipping to ensure the quality of live seafood.

Ordering around 2-3 days before your desired delivery date is best to secure the freshest lobsters. Many companies let you pick an exact ship date during checkout.

Checking Lobster Trucks and Pop-Up Markets

In coastal regions, keep an eye out for lobster trucks with fresh catch for sale. These mobile seafood providers often park in busy areas and advertise their arrival on social media.

Lobster trucks are most common in New England but are gaining popularity nationwide. Depending on the season, they may have live lobsters or fresh cooked lobster and seafood ready to eat.

Pop-up lobster and seafood markets also appear near beaches, harbors, and other coastal towns when ships come into port. Follow local social media groups to find out when fresh seafood pop-ups will be available. Bring some cooler bags and cash and arrive early before they sell out!

Visiting the Docks for Straight from the Boat Seafood

If you live near an active fishing port or harbor, buying straight from the dock is an amazing way to get ultra fresh seafood. Fishermen often sell a portion of their catch right at the docks when they come into port.

Be prepared that selection fluctuates daily based on what was caught. Lobster is more common seasonally during summer months. Get to know local fishermen and their schedules to find the best times to visit the docks for fresh lobster and seafood selection.

Research which wharfs in your region have seafood for sale and when peak times are each day. Bring coolers or ice packs and cash to purchase your fresh catches straight from the fishing boats!

Comparing Prices for the Best Fresh Lobster Deals

To find the best deals on fresh lobster, you’ll need to comparison shop a bit. Live lobster prices per pound can range quite a bit, from $8-$15 on average and up to $25 for premium lobsters. Here are some tips:

• Check weekly ads for seafood markets and grocery stores for lower priced lobster specials

• Ask about bargain options like lobster culls (small females or odd shells)

• Buy in bulk directly from retailers or wholesalers for cheaper per pound pricing

• Follow lobster forecasts and buy in season when supply is high for better deals

• Allow flexibility on lobster size to get lower prices (1-1.25 pound lobsters are most affordable)

Put in a little work to research options in your area during lobster season, and you can find great deals on fresh lobster!

Trying Your Hand at DIY Lobster Fishing

For the ultimate fresh lobster experience, you could always try catching your own! Recreational lobster fishing is allowed in certain areas with the proper licenses and gear.

This is an advanced option that requires research on seasons, regulations, equipment needs, etc in your region. Most areas also limit the number of lobsters per day for recreational fishing.

If you’re up for learning the ropes, lobster fishing allows you to source seafood as fresh as possible. And the ability to choose the exact size lobsters you keep. Bring gloves, nets and an ice-filled cooler and have fun fishing for your own lobster dinner!

Key Tips for Finding the Freshest Lobster

Now that you know where to source fresh lobster, keep these tips in mind for identifying and picking the best options:

• For live lobsters, look for lively claw movement and reactive tails when touched

• Pick lobsters that feel heavy for their size, indicating meatiness

• Avoid lobsters with discoloration or foul odors

• For cooked lobsters, look for bright red shells and meat with no dark spots

• Cook live lobsters yourself soon after purchasing for ultimate freshness

• Ask retailers when their next lobster shipment arrives to time your purchase

• Order ahead from local shops or online companies to ensure best selection

• Cook lobster within 24 hours of purchasing for peak flavor and texture

Taking a few extra steps to find and choose optimally fresh lobsters is worth the effort for their amazing sweet taste! Follow this guide and you’ll be enjoying fresh lobster feasts near you in no time. Let us know your best tips for sourcing awesome fresh lobster close to home!