"Mumbai Fish Markets: A Guide to Fresh Seafood"
"Sassoon Dock, Colaba
“Explore Sassoon Dock, one of Mumbai’s oldest fish markets, for fresh seafood, prawns, and lobsters. Visit early for the best catches!”
One of the oldest and most iconic fish markets in Mumbai, Zaveri Bazaar operates as a hub for wholesale seafood distribution. It is known for its wide selection of local and imported fish, and it is especially popular among restaurants and hotels for sourcing fresh seafood. The market opens early in the morning, and it’s best to arrive by dawn for the freshest options. Expect to find popular varieties like pomfret, kingfish (surmai), mackerel, crabs, and prawns, among others.
- Best Time to Visit: Early morning, between 4:30 AM and 7:00 AM.
Crawford Market (Jijamata Udyaan Market), South Mumbai
- Specialty: Offers a mix of local and exotic seafood, including freshwater fish like rohu, katla, and exotic options like salmon and tuna.
- Unique Aspects: Located in a heritage building, this market combines seafood with a variety of other goods, making it a one-stop shop.
- Pro Tip: Go early to avoid crowds and get the freshest catch. Make sure to negotiate prices.
Dadar Fish Market
- Location: Close to Dadar West Railway Station. Easily accessible by locals.
- Specialty: Seasonal local fish such as surmai, bangda, mandeli, rawas, and shellfish like prawns and crabs.
- Unique Aspects: The market is known for its competitive pricing and wide variety of fish. Its proximity to Dadar’s vegetable market makes it convenient for complete shopping.
- Pro Tip: Carry cash for quicker transactions and come prepared for a bustling environment.
Versova Fish Market
- Specialty: A coastal market offering freshly caught seafood like pomfret, prawns, squid, crabs, and seasonal varieties like hilsa.
- Unique Aspects: Run by the local Koli fishing community, ensuring authenticity. The market’s proximity to the beach allows for direct-to-market seafood.
- Pro Tip: Best visited during the early hours (5-7 AM) when fishermen return with their fresh catch.
Mahim Fish Market
- Specialty: Ideal for smaller varieties of fish like mandeli, bombil, and silverfish, as well as affordable shellfish.
- Unique Aspects: Known for its fast-paced environment. Many locals rely on this market for fresh seafood daily.
- Pro Tip: Watch out for the rush during weekends as it’s a go-to spot for residents in central Mumbai
Bhaucha Dhakka (Ferry Wharf), Mazgaon
- Specialty: A hub for bulk seafood supply, including prawns, surmai, pomfret, and seasonal fish like hilsa.
- Unique Aspects: Primarily a wholesale market serving restaurants and hotels, but retail buyers are welcome. Witness massive hauls of fish being unloaded and auctioned.
- Pro Tip: It’s best to visit before 8 AM for the freshest deals and largest variety.
Khar Danda Fish Market
- Specialty: Freshly caught seafood like mackerel, kingfish, prawns, and bombil.
- Unique Aspects: It’s a small, community-run market offering an authentic fisherfolk vibe. The seafood is often sold directly off the boats.
- Pro Tip: Prices here can be lower than larger markets. Visiting after high tide often ensures fresher stock.
Andheri Fish Market
- Specialty: Offers both freshwater and saltwater fish, including tilapia, rohu, surmai, pomfret, and prawns.
- Unique Aspects: A popular choice for suburban families due to its wide variety and competitive pricing. Vendors here cater to both individual shoppers and small businesses.
- Pro Tip: Early mornings and late evenings are the best times for fresh stock.
Chembur Fish Market
- Specialty: Known for its selection of freshwater fish (rohu, katla) as well as regional favorites like bombil and mandeli.
- Unique Aspects: Chembur’s eastern suburban location makes it convenient for residents in that area, with fewer crowds compared to central markets.
- Pro Tip: Explore nearby street food options after shopping for a complete experience.
Bandra Bandstand Fish Market
- Specialty: Known for seafood like crabs, prawns, kingfish, and seasonal varieties.
- Unique Aspects: It’s located near the iconic Bandstand promenade, giving it a unique seaside shopping vibe. Often, the seafood is brought in by nearby fishermen’s boats.
- Pro Tip: Great for sourcing seafood after a morning walk at Bandstand.