Where To Buy Stone Crab In Tampa

Are you a seafood enthusiast looking for the freshest and most delicious stone crabs in Tampa? You're in luck! Tampa is known for its abundant seafood offerings, and stone crabs are a local favorite. These delectable crustaceans are a must-try for anyone visiting or residing in Tampa. In this article, we'll explore where to buy stone crab in Tampa, as well as some tips for selecting and preparing these tasty treats.

What Are Stone Crabs?

Stone crabs are a type of crab that are native to the western Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico. They can be found along the Florida coast from Tampa Bay to the Florida Keys. These crabs are known for their large and powerful claws, which they use to crush their prey. Stone crabs are harvested for their meat, which is considered a delicacy in many parts of the world.

Where To Find Fresh Stone Crab In Tampa

If you're looking for fresh stone crab in Tampa, there are several places you can go. The first and most obvious place to look is at local seafood markets. These markets typically offer a wide variety of seafood, including fresh stone crab. Some popular markets in Tampa include:

Fresh Market Seafood - Known for its fresh and locally sourced seafood, Fresh Market Seafood is a top spot for stone crab in Tampa. They offer both retail and wholesale options, so you can buy as much or as little as you need.
The Crab House - This popular seafood spot offers a wide variety of seafood, including stone crab. They also have a restaurant on-site if you want to enjoy your crab with some sides and a cold drink.
Key West Shrimp Company - This family-owned seafood market specializes in fresh Gulf seafood, including stone crab. They offer online ordering and overnight shipping, so you can enjoy fresh stone crab anywhere in the United States.

In addition to local seafood markets, you can also find fresh stone crab at some of Tampa's top restaurants. Many of these restaurants source their seafood directly from local fishermen, ensuring the freshest and most delicious stone crab possible. Some top restaurants for stone crab in Tampa include:

Bern's Steakhouse - Known for its high-end steaks and seafood, Bern's is a top spot for stone crab in Tampa. They offer both hot and cold stone crab options, depending on your preference.
Ulele - This waterfront restaurant specializes in locally sourced seafood and features a gorgeous outdoor patio. Their stone crab claws are a must-try.
Charley's Steak House - With locations in Tampa and Orlando, Charley's is a popular steakhouse that also offers fresh seafood. Their stone crab is served with a side of mustard sauce for dipping.

How To Select The Best Stone Crab

When selecting stone crab, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure you get the best quality and flavor:

Related Crab

Look for claws that are heavy for their size, indicating a high meat-to-shell ratio.
Avoid claws with cracks or discoloration, as this can indicate that the crab is not fresh.
Choose claws that are firm and not mushy, which can indicate that the crab is past its prime.
Ask the fishmonger or server about the crab's source and freshness to ensure you're getting the best quality possible.

How To Prepare Stone Crab

Preparing stone crab is easy and requires minimal effort. Here's how to do it:

Start by removing the claws from the crab's body. Use a firm twisting motion to break the claw away from the body.
Using a seafood cracker or mallet, crack the claw shells to expose the meat.
Gently remove the meat from the shell, taking care to keep it intact.
Repeat with the remaining claws.
Serve the stone crab meat chilled, with your favorite dipping sauce.

Conclusion

With its abundance of fresh seafood, Tampa is the perfect place to indulge in some delicious stone crab. Whether you're buying it at a local seafood market or enjoying it at a top restaurant, you're sure to be impressed by the sweet and succulent meat of these crustaceans. Follow our tips for selecting and preparing stone crab, and you're guaranteed to have a delicious and memorable dining experience.