Seafood is a major part of Mumbai’s daily food culture. But with so many vendors, markets, and delivery apps, finding truly fresh seafood is becoming harder. Freshness affects taste, health, and the entire cooking experience — so knowing what to look for is important.

At YourFishLady, we believe in delivering real ocean-fresh seafood straight to your home. This blog will help you understand the 7 freshest fish to buy in Mumbai and how to identify real freshness like a pro.

 

1. Rawas (Indian Salmon)

Rawas is one of Mumbai’s most trusted fish for daily meals.

Why it’s popular

• Soft, flavourful, tender flesh

• Rich in Omega-3

• Versatile for grill, curry, or fry

Signs of freshness

• Clean smell

• Firm texture

• Slight natural shine

2. Surmai (King Fish)

Surmai is loved for its strong flavour and meaty slices.

Why people choose Surmai

• Perfect for tawa fry, curry, or tandoori

• Dense, firm flesh that stays intact

Signs of freshness

• Shiny, tight skin

• No strong odour

• Even-coloured flesh

3. Pomfret (White & Black)

Premium, delicate, and perfect for special meals.

Why Pomfret stands out

• Mild, natural flavour

• Soft and clean flesh

Signs of freshness

• Bright, clear eyes

• Smooth, shiny body

• Fresh, ocean-like smell

 

4. Bangda (Mackerel)

A Mumbai household favourite for generations.

Why it’s loved

• High in healthy oils

• Naturally flavourful

• Perfect for fry & curry

Signs of freshness

• Tight skin

• Firm body

• No soft spots

 

5. Basa

The easiest fish for anyone to cook — especially kids or beginners.

Why it’s popular

• Boneless

• Very soft texture

• Mild flavour

Signs of freshness

• Moist, clean fillet

• No dryness or cracks

 

6. Prawns (Small, Medium, Tiger)

Prawns are quick to cook but also quick to spoil — so freshness matters a lot.

Why people love prawns

• Perfect for biryani, curry, fry, grills

• Available in many sizes

Signs of freshness

• Firm, tight shell

• Zero smell

• Slight natural shine

 

7. Squid (Calamari)

Popular for crispy snacks and coastal dishes.

Why squid is a favourite

• Excellent for calamari rings

• Cooks fast

• Great for spicy dishes

Signs of freshness

• White, clean body

• No sliminess

• Slightly firm texture

 

How to Spot Real Freshness in Seafood

You don't need to be an expert — just look for these simple signs.

1. Eyes Should Be Clear

Cloudy or sunken eyes mean the fish is old.

2. Flesh Should Be Firm

Press lightly — if the flesh bounces back, it’s fresh.

3. Smell Should Be Clean

Fresh fish always smells like ocean breeze, never “fishy.”

4. Skin Should Shine

Bright, glossy skin means moisture is still locked inside.

5. Gills Should Be Red or Pink

Brown gills = old fish.

6. Prawns Should Have No Smell

Any odour = not fresh.

Why Choosing the Right Seafood Supplier Matters

YourFishLady’s Freshness Process

• Direct sourcing from trusted fishermen

• Cleaned & processed in hygienic kitchens

• Temperature-controlled handling

• Packed within minutes of cleaning

• No preservatives, no chemicals

• Delivered within hours

This ensures customers get real ocean freshness, not market-stored seafood.

Conclusion

Fresh seafood makes all the difference in taste, nutrition, and cooking quality. Once you learn simple freshness cues — clear eyes, firm flesh, natural smell, and shiny skin — selecting the right fish becomes easy.

Mumbai has plenty of seafood options, but only proper sourcing and handling can keep fish truly fresh. With YourFishLady, you always get seafood that’s carefully selected, hygienically cleaned, and delivered with guaranteed freshness — straight to your doorstep.