Any lobster aficionado out there knows that no two types of lobster are alike. In fact, the way a lobster tastes, what it looks like, and even its tenderness can change depending on what type of lobster it is.
If you thought all lobsters were the same, you’re not alone, but we are here to set the record straight. So, keep reading to learn all about the different types of lobster and to make the right decision for your next event.
1. Tristian Lobster
Tristian lobster is widely regarded to be one of the best types, if not the best, type of lobster in the world. Fished off the shores of a remote island by the name Tristan da Cunha is this decadent and sweet lobster is known for its especially tender meat. This quality does come at a cost however, as Tristian lobster is the world’s most expensive variety as well.
2. Maine Lobster
Maine Lobster is the most common variety of lobster consumed in the United States, and it comes in two varieties, hard-shell and soft-shell, both of which have their benefits.
Maine Lobster is fished from warmer waters, making it smaller in stature and sweeter than its cold water counterparts. Hard shell and soft shell Maine lobsters are the same species, the shell consistency just depends on the time since its most recent molting. Hard-shell Maine lobster is commonly sold as live or whole lobster, while soft-shell Maine lobsters are typically processed before shipping due to their delicate nature.
3. South African Lobster
South African lobster is fished off the cape of Africa, and it is known as one of the most unique species of lobster.
Lacking claws, this lobster looks and tastes somewhat like a warm water variety of lobster, despite the fact that it is fished in cold waters. Because the meat has to travel so far and there are no prized claws to consume, South African lobster is normally found frozen and is perfect for use to make chopped lobster dishes like lobster rolls or lobster salad.
4. Australian Lobster
Australia is home to several varieties of lobster, most notably the Western Rock lobster which is fished off the western coast. A similar species, known by the name New Zealand Rock Lobster is fished out of the waters off the east coast.
Australian Lobster can grow to impressive sizes of up to 11 pounds and is known around the world for its creamy and sweet flavor. Because the meat in this type of lobster is so delicate, you’ll need to be careful not to overcook it, but it is absolutely delicious in pastas, lobster dip, and more.
5. European Lobster
European Lobster is known by several names, one of which—blue lobster, can cause some confusion. Due to the cold waters it lives in, European lobsters are darker in color than what most people are accustomed to seeing, so dark that they appear to be blue instead of red—not to be confused with the rare blue American lobster!
Regardless, the European version aren’t that rare, though there are limits to the number that can be fished from the north European seas. As such, they’re a bit of a rarity, known around the world for their excellent flavor. Just be prepared to pay a high cost to give this delicious variety a try!
6. Canadian Lobster
Canadian Lobster is closely related to Maine Lobster, it is just finished further north, in colder waters. As a result, Canadian lobster is larger, and not nearly as sweet in flavor as its American counterpart. If you have to choose between the two, we recommend choosing Main lobster hands down.
7. Florida Spiny Lobster
Florida Spiny Lobster is another warm water lobster which has often been compared in quality to Maine Lobster. As the name indicates, this crustacean can be found off the coast of Florida and is covered in spines.
Florida Spiny Lobsters don’t have claws, but they have large tails which can be excellent when prepared properly. It’s important to note, however, that the Florida lobster isn’t as flavorful as Maine lobster, meaning it goes well in a dish where it is paired with other spices to bring out its natural flavor.
8. California Spiny Lobster
Surprisingly, there is a variety of lobster which can be fished off the Californian coast known as the California Spiny Lobster. Fished from warm waters, like the Florida Spiny Lobster, this breed has no claws.
While California Spiny Lobster is known far and wide for its delicious and nutty taste, it is unfortunately on the tough side, meaning it tastes much better when slow cooked in a dish like seafood stew.
9. Chinese Spiny Lobster
Similar to the California Spiny Lobster, Chinese Spiny Lobster are a small breed of lobster fished out of the seas near China and Hong Kong. Because they are also known to be tough, these lobsters are rarely sold whole and are more likely to be added to a stir fry or soup to help tenderize the meat. There are very few of them, however, so it is unlikely you will be able to purchase this breed of lobster anywhere outside of Asia.
What is the Difference Between Maine Lobster and Cold Water Lobster?
Maine Lobster is a warm water lobster, meaning it is fished from warm seas. As a result, it tends to have a different flavor than cold water lobsters.
Warm water lobsters are usually more flavorful and sweeter in taste than cold water lobsters, but these species are smaller in size—making them more expensive to purchase. Additionally, warm water lobster tends to be more tender, making it more desirable for those planning to consume the lobster as tails with a fancy meal.
Where Can You Buy Lobster?
No matter where you live it can be a challenge to find the exact type of lobster you want to buy. Many stores only carry one variety, if any, and you won’t exactly have your pick while you shop. That’s why we recommend shopping on the Stone Crab Club website.
Stone Crab Club is a fully stocked online seafood store which has a large variety of lobster types. Whether you want to make a lobster bisque, or eat a baked stuffed tail, they have it all. Plus, they can ship it to your door in just 48 hours, meaning you can be eating fresh seafood in no time at all!