Whether its a get-together with friends and family, or you simply want to make something delicious at home, Aussies simply love fresh seafood. While Canberra is some distance from the coast, the nation's capital is still home to a number of great local shops offering fresh, tasty seafood. So, whether you're looking for prawns, fresh fish, crustaceans or oysters, you can be sure to find them at one of Canberra's best seafood markets.
Skip to the list of Canberra's best seafood markets
- FishCo Fish Market
- Gungahlin Fresh Food Market
- Ocean Fresh Seafoods
- Sea Harvest
- Tasty Fish Market
What makes a great seafood market?
Here are some qualities that contribute to the reputation and success of a seafood market:
Freshness and quality: The hallmark of a great seafood market is the consistently high quality and freshness of its seafood. Customers expect to find fresh seafood that is sourced responsibly and handled properly to maintain its quality.
Variety and availability: A diverse range of seafood options to cater to different tastes and preferences is important. It should have a wide selection of fish, shellfish, crustaceans, and other seafood varieties, ensuring that customers can find their desired choices.
Knowledgeable and helpful staff: The staff should be knowledgeable about different types of seafood. They can provide helpful recommendations, offer cooking tips, and answer questions about seafood selection and preparation.
Cleanliness and hygiene: Maintaining cleanliness and adhering to strict hygiene standards is crucial for a seafood market. Customers expect a clean and well-organized environment where seafood is stored and displayed properly to prevent cross-contamination and ensure food safety.
The best seafood markets in Canberra 2024
To be listed as one of our best, the seafood market needs to have maintained a track record of positive reviews on Google or Facebook, with a minimum average of 4/5 stars. Interested in having your business listed on Canberra's Best? Click here to learn more.
When looking for a seafood market in the Canberra region, check out our list of the best local businesses below.
Ocean Fresh Seafoods
Located at the Fyshwick Markets, Ocean Fresh offers customers the chance to buy fresh seafood as well as ordering from their menu.
They are passionate about providing delicious and high-quality food, using only the freshest and finest ingredients. You can order a range of different items from their website.
Julius Lean left this positive review on Google; “Good quality seafood. Probably best in Canberra. Have been coming here for years and never disappointed. Prawns overpriced at Christmas though but top quality.”
Sea Harvest
For over 40 years, Sea Harvest have been dedicated to bringing the finest and freshest Australian seafood to Canberrans.
They supply seafood restaurants across the city, and sell to the public via permanent stores at the Belconnen and Fyshwick markets. Their quality produce includes Tasmanian salmon, NT barramundi, WA lobster, Merimbula rock oysters and a whole lot more.
Kathryn Mcgilp wrote this five star review on Google; “Great seafood, always fresh and plenty of variety. Excellent local business.”
Tasty Fish Market
With two locations across Canberra (Woden and Belconnen) Tasty Fish Market is a favourite for many shopping for seafood in the region.
They source fresh produce directly from Sydney Fish Market including salmon, tuna, snapper, barramundi, kingfish, ling fish, blue swimmer crabs, cooked prawns, green prawns and Oysters (shucking on site). They also serve delicious takeaway fish & chips.
On Google, Ruhal Amin left this five-star review: “During my recent visit with my wife, we were impressed by the variety and top-notch quality of seafood available at Tasty Fish Market. A must-visit for seafood lovers in Canberra!”
FishCo Fish Market
Established in 1997 at the Belconnen Markets, Fischo has grown into one of the leading sources of fresh fish and seafood in Canberra.
Now located in Fyshwick, Fischo aim to supply a large variety of seafood at the best possible prices. Not only do they offer great produce, but Fishco are also known for their outstanding customer service, with the team happy to help you with anything you need.
Satisfied customer Xin Li left this five star review on Google; “A broad range of fresh seafood. I never thought Canberra would have such a big seafood appetite but I am amazed by the seafood here.”
Gungahlin Fresh Food Market
Gungahlin Fresh Food Market is a place to buy fresh fish, seafood, meat and vegetables, as well as authentic fish and chips prepared by their skilled chefs.
You can either head in store to view the produce, or you can shop it all online at their website. The seafood they offer includes octopus, fish, prawns, crabs and more.
On Google; Muhammed Kamrul Islam left this five star review; “It’s a great shop to buy meat, fish, vegetables, groceries and frozen asian foods. Also they have cooked items to eat when shopping. Staffs are very friendly.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a seafood market?
A seafood market is a specialised store or marketplace where various types of fresh seafood, such as fish, shellfish, and crustaceans, are sold to customers.
What kinds of seafood can I find at a seafood market?
Seafood markets typically offer a wide variety of options, including fish like salmon, tuna and snapper, as well as shellfish like prawns, crab, lobster and oysters. The availability may vary depending on the season and region.
How can I ensure the seafood is fresh?
Look for a seafood market that emphasises freshness. Fresh seafood should have a pleasant smell, bright and clear eyes, shiny skin or shells, and firm texture. Additionally, reputable seafood markets follow proper handling and storage practices to maintain freshness.
Are the seafood products sourced sustainably?
The best seafood markets prioritise sustainable sourcing practices. They may partner with suppliers who follow responsible fishing or aquaculture methods that protect the environment and promote the long-term health of seafood populations.
Can I ask for advice on selecting and preparing seafood?
Absolutely! The staff at seafood markets are often knowledgeable about different types of seafood and can offer guidance. They can suggest suitable fish for specific recipes, provide cooking tips, and even help with proper seafood storage.
