Where to buy local seafood in North Wales
Visitors to our Saltcote often ask us where they can buy good local seafood in North Wales to cook at home.
The waters around Ynys Môn/Anglesey are known for producing some exceptional seafood. The Menai Strait, which separates the island from the mainland, is particularly famous for its plump, flavoursome mussels, while oysters are also grown along the North Wales coast. Add locally landed crab, lobster and fresh fish to the mix, and it’s easy to see why this part of Wales is such a treat for seafood lovers.
When it comes to cooking, fresh fish doesn’t need much fuss - often, a little Halen Môn sea salt is often enough to bring out the natural flavour of most fish, especially with very fresh fish. Pepper, lemon, herbs, butter, garlic, chilli or a good finishing salt can add more without overpowering it.
Our co-founders, Alison and David, know a thing or two about good fish: many moons ago, before they were sea salt experts, they were fishmongers themselves. They’re still always on the lookout for the freshest local catch to take home and cook, so we’ve gathered some of their favourite places to buy seafood in North Wales.
Mermaid Seafoods, Llandudno
Here you'll find a huge selection of fish and seafood. A local, family run business, it's certainly one of the most comprehensive places to visit on our list, with a really friendly team.
Spar Y Maes, Pwllheli
Alongside plenty of seasonal, fresh produce and locally-sourced meats, this unassuming local shop is the place to find North Wales' very best fresh lobster. You can even pick up a jar of our Pure Sea Salt while you're there, perfect if you're thinking of cooking up a feast at home.
Siop y Cranc/ Crab Shop + Deli, Benllech
Blas y Môr, Porthmadog
Our newest fishmongers, Blas y Môr means 'taste of the sea.' Family-run with a good variety of fish and shellfish, they focus on seasonal and locally sourced fish, reflecting the North Wales coastline.
Conwy mussels and Menai Mussels
It's worth giving them a ring directly to get your hands on some beautiful fresh Menai mussels, one of the dishes we're famous for here in North Wales. If you're staying on Ynys Môn, it would be hard to get lower food miles than choosing your shellfish from Menai Mussels. Alternatively, book yourself a table at Dylan's to enjoy this local delicacy.
A few things to have in mind when shopping for seafood
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Consider the seasons - don't buy something that may have travelled thousands of miles.
- Look for clear information - on where the fish was caught and how.
- Favour day-boat and pot-caught shellfish where possible.
- Broaden your horizons – don’t be afraid to try less common fish if you find somewhere it is on offer. Experiment with different dishes and enjoy new flavours
- Check sustainability - Online resources can be really helpful for this - http://www.fishonline.org/ for example has a search engine where you can input a fish species and it will tell you whether or not you should be consuming it.
