Nothing beats the sweet, succulent meat of a fresh lobster tail That distinctive lobster flavor and tender texture is hard to replicate with frozen or previously frozen tails. So when a craving hits for this decadent seafood, I always want the real deal – fresh lobster tails from right out of the water But finding them near me has not always been so easy.
In this article, I’ll share my tips on tracking down retailers and seafood markets that regularly stock fresh, never frozen raw lobster tails you can take home and prepare. With some research and planning, you may just find a great source for fresh lobster tails in your neighborhood.
Checking Local Supermarkets and Grocery Stores
My first stop when I need fresh seafood is always my local supermarket. Many grocery store chains like Kroger, Safeway, and Albertsons have fresh seafood counters that get regular shipments of lobster tails. Here are some tips for checking your grocery store:
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Ask the seafood counter staff when their delivery days are so you know when to come in. Often early morning is best.
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Inspect the lobster tails carefully. Make sure they are raw, not pre-cooked. And check for good color and firm meat.
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Aim for tails between 4-8 ounces which are a good single serving size. Larger tails may be tougher.
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Expect to pay $8-$15 per tail based on the size.
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Buy them the day you plan to cook them and cook within 1-2 days for best flavor
While you may pay a little more than at a wholesale warehouse, grocery stores are convenient and you can hand select each tail.
Checking Local Fish Markets and Seafood Shops
Another place to check for fresh lobster tails are local dedicated seafood markets or fishmongers. These shops focus specifically on selling fresh, high-quality seafood. Here are some things to look for at fish markets:
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Ask when they get shipments in and request the freshest tails.
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Inspect the texture and scent – they should not have an overly fishy smell.
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Price may be slightly lower than major grocery stores.
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Purchase extras like drawn butter, lemons, bibs, etc. for your meal.
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Make sure to keep the tails chilled until ready to cook.
Finding a shop with knowledgeable staff and frequent shipments in can be a jackpot for lobster fans. The quality is top-notch.
Trying Restaurant and Seafood Suppliers
If you strike out at local markets, another option is checking with restaurant suppliers or seafood companies in your area. Many supply fresh seafood to restaurants and may sell retail to the public as well. Here are some tips on purchasing from them:
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Call ahead to ask if they sell retail lobster tails to walk-in customers. Confirm pricing.
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Expect bulk pricing, so you may need to buy multiple tails at once.
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Pick up early in the day soon after shipments arrive.
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Restaurant suppliers have high turnover so their inventory is extremely fresh.
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Pack the tails on ice and cook same day for peak freshness.
This does require some extra effort, but restaurant suppliers can be a jackpot for pristine seafood.
Ordering Lobster Tails Online
If searching locally leaves you empty handed, I recommend ordering fresh raw lobster tails online. Here are some tips for picking an online seafood company:
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Look for sellers located in Maine, the prime lobster source. This ensures authenticity.
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Check for overnight shipping options to get the freshest tails.
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Read through customer reviews and look for reputable businesses.
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Expect to pay about $40-$60 for two high quality, fresh 4-5 ounce tails overnighted.
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Order early in the week to avoid tails sitting in transit over weekends.
Having lobster tails shipped overnight from the source is the ultimate convenience. Though pricier, it guarantees you quality fresh-from-the-water tails whenever you get a craving.
Enjoy the Sweet Taste of Fresh Lobster
Nothing matches the indulgence and flavor punch of a fresh raw lobster tail. With some smart sourcing and perfect timing, you can land high quality fresh lobster tails for your next seafood feast. From checking local supermarkets to having them overnighted from the coast, use these tips to locate fresh lobster near you. The taste is well worth the effort to find and prepare them right after they come out of the ocean.
What is your go-to source for buying fresh seafood in your area? Share your tips and tricks to find the best quality lobster tails and other seafood!
Free From Antibiotics and Always Truly From Maine
We purchase our Maine lobster tails from lobsters caught by Maine fishermen. We never buy lobsters that have been farmed or raised, so our customers can be sure that the lobsters they get are always fresh and free of antibiotics and hormones. My family has lived in Maine for many years, and we only use local suppliers to make sure you and your taste buds have the best experience possible.
Buy the Freshest Maine Lobster Tails — Online!
Want the rich, succulent taste that can only come from real Maine lobsters? Maine Lobster Now makes it easy to buy fresh Maine lobster tails and have them sent right to your door. Pick the sizes you prefer, then order your Maine lobster tails online through our secure site. You’ve never tasted a lobster tail until you’ve tasted a genuine Maine lobster tail.