Where to Find Fresh Seafood or Local Fish Market on St John USVI

Where to get a fresh catch of local fish

Looking for the freshest local fish on St. John? While the island doesn’t have a bustling fish market, there are great places to find fresh seafood. Local markets like Calabash Market in Coral Bay and Starfish Market in Cruz Bay often carry fresh catches like mahi-mahi, tuna, and Caribbean lobster. For a truly authentic experience, some restaurants feature daily specials showcasing fresh, locally sourced seafood. Want to catch your own? Charter a fishing boat and reel in your dinner straight from the Caribbean waters. Explore St. John’s unique ways to enjoy fresh seafood and local fish!

Table of Contents

• Where is the Local Fish Market on St John?
• Typical Selections of Fresh Seafood In the USVI
• Markets for Fresh Seafood
• Restaurants Serving Fresh Local Fish
• Fishing Charters: Catch Your Own
• Tips for Storing Fresh Catch of Fish
• Other Popular Food Pairings
• Markets on St Thomas for Fresh Seafood
• Conclusion
• FAQs About Buying Local Fish

What kind of fresh seafood and fish are available locally on St John’s island and where to get it.

• To be honest, there isn’t a big commercial fishing industry in the U.S. Virgin Islands. In fact, it’d also be doubtful to find such a fish market on St John or on St Thomas VI.
• Therefore, there isn’t a local “fish market” or dedicated seafood store to be found on St John VI.
• Heading East is a bar/restaurant on St. John that may offer local catch of fresh fish on occasion. Selections may include conch, parrotfish, tuna, lobster and more.
• Other than these few resources we recommend as your best bets to purchase your own fish or seafood to prepare at your St John island villa rental, you’ll find that restaurants and fishing boat charters are the other places to access a seafood feast.

Typical Selections of Fresh Seafood from the Caribbean Waters surrounding the USVI

• Mahi-Mahi
• Tuna
• Caribbean Lobster
• While you can find shrimp, scallops, crab, and other varieties of seafood on St. John, they are not fresh local island seafood catch that you can find from USVI waters.

Markets on St John VI for Fresh Seafood and Fish

• Calabash Market, located Coral Bay
• Starfish Market, located Cruz Bay

Restaurants on St John VI for a good seafood dinner

• La Tapa St John
• Mogans Mango
• The Terrace St John
• Gallows Point Resort, Ocean 362 St John
• Lime Inn St John, Cruz Bay
• Lime Out St John, Coral Bay
• Westin St John Resort, the Lemongrass Restaurant
• Lime Out floating taco bar in Coral Bay harbor
• Rhumb Lines (now permanently closed)
• Skinny Legs – while otherwise known for their burgers, try Mahi-Mahi on a bed of Josephine’s Greens!
• Sharky’s On the Water – great mussels, grilled mahi, and tuna sushi roll
• Surf Club Cantina – great conch fritters or fresh seared tuna over a salad
• There are others of course, but those above are popular casual and fine dining options on island in general.
  • Coral Bay Restaurants
  • Cruz Bay Restaurants

Fishing Charters from St John

• If you want to go out to sea to get your own seafood, a boat charter is the way. Each customer can keep up to 20 pounds of their catch of fish per person.

Tips for Storing Fresh Fish

• Bring a Cooler: If you’re purchasing fish, carry a small insulated cooler to keep your purchase fresh, especially in the warm island weather.
• Cook Quickly: Fresh fish is best cooked within 24 hours. If that’s not possible, clean and freeze it immediately.
• Ask Vendors for Prep Advice: Many vendors are happy to share tips on cleaning and cooking the fish you buy.

Other Popular Island Food Pairings

While fresh seafood is a highlight, St. John offers other tasty treats:

• Johnny Cakes and Pates: These local snacks are often available from food trucks or small eateries.
• Island Produce: Visit Josephine’s Greens for locally grown organic greens.
• Local Rum Drinks: Pair your seafood meal with a Painkiller or Bushwacker, two must-try cocktails.

Markets on St Thomas VI for Fresh Seafood and Fish

• Gustave Quetel Fish Market
• Otherwise known as Frenchtown Fish Market, and located near the ferry terminal going to the BVIs.
• Local fishermen sell their catch daily at several locations around St. Thomas – the intersection of the Smith Bay Road and Coki beach, bottom of Mafolie Hill by the Lionel Roberts Stadium, Fort Mylner opposite the Tutu Park Mall.
• GPS 18.337620177112058, -64.94041827977823

Conclusion

When it comes to enjoying fresh local fish on St. John, the options are as unique and vibrant as the island itself. Whether you’re picking up a fresh catch from local markets like Calabash or Starfish, dining at a top restaurant that highlights the flavors of the Caribbean, or heading out on a fishing charter to reel in your own meal, there’s no shortage of ways to savor the bounty of the sea. While the island may not have a traditional fish market, the experience of finding and enjoying fresh seafood here is part of what makes St. John so special. Embrace the island’s laid-back vibe, try something new, and enjoy the unforgettable flavors of the Caribbean.

FAQs Section

1. Where can I buy fresh fish on St. John?
You can find fresh fish at local markets like Calabash Market in Coral Bay or Starfish Market in Cruz Bay.

2. What types of fish are common on St. John?
Common fresh catches include mahi-mahi, tuna, and Caribbean lobster.

3. Can I catch my own fish on St. John?
Yes, you can book a fishing charter to catch your own fish.

4. Are there restaurants that serve local seafood?
Yes, many restaurants like Morgan’s Mango, La Tapa and Ocean 362 feature fresh, locally sourced seafood.

5. Is there a fish market on St. John?
There isn’t a dedicated fish market on St. John, but local grocery markets, restaurants, and fishermen provide fresh seafood options.

6. What other local food should I try on St. John?
Don’t miss Johnny Cakes, island-style pates, and local fruits like mango and guavaberry.