How Much Does a Lobster Cost in Bangalore?

Lobster is considered a luxury food item that is not commonly found in Bangalore. However, with the rising popularity of seafood and exotic cuisines, lobster has made its way onto the plates of some Bangaloreans. But being an imported delicacy, it does not come cheap. So how much does a lobster cost in Bangalore?

The prices vary significantly based on the type, size, and source of the lobster. On average, live lobsters in Bangalore cost between Rs. 2000 to Rs. 5000 per kg. Frozen lobster tails are more affordable in the range of Rs. 1200 to Rs. 2500 per kg. The meat itself, extracted from the shells, can cost a whopping Rs. 3000 to Rs. 6000 per kg.

These prices may seem exorbitant to the uninitiated. But for seafood aficionados, shelling out top dollar for these succulent crustaceans is well worth the premium. This article will break down the factors affecting lobster prices in Bangalore and provide tips on finding the best deals.

Why is Lobster Expensive in Bangalore?

There are several reasons why lobster commands such a high price tag in the Silicon Valley of India:

Shipping Costs

As Bangalore is located far from coastal regions, all seafood including lobster needs to be flown in or shipped over land. This substantially increases transportation costs which get passed on to the consumer. Importing fresh live lobsters is especially expensive.

Limited Availability

Lobster is not farmed or caught locally. Reliable supplies are limited to what premium seafood importers can source from coastal lobster hubs like Maine, Boston and parts of Europe. Irregular availability due to weather and fishing season affects prices.

Premium Food Item

Globally, lobster is considered a luxury food, perceived as a delicate and exclusive delicacy. There is enough demand from high-end restaurants and hotels in Bangalore willing to pay a premium to source and serve lobster.

Processing Expenses

Live lobsters and whole frozen lobsters include shells and innards which must be processed and removed before consuming the meat. The labor costs for extracting the lobster meat increases prices for the final shelled product.

Customs Duties

As an imported seafood, lobsters in Bangalore are subject to customs duties, clearance fees, and other taxes that inevitably get passed on to customers through higher retail pricing

Types of Lobsters Found in Bangalore

There are over 40 species of lobsters globally. The most common types found in Bangalore are:

• Maine Lobster – Also called the American lobster, it has a greenish-brown shell and claws packed with sweet, tender meat. It is the most popular type but also the most expensive.

• Rock Lobster – Found in Australia and New Zealand, this spiny lobster lacks claws but makes up for it with a firm textured tail meat More affordable than Maine lobster.

• European Lobster – This blue-hued lobster is considered a delicacy with a subtle, sweet flavor and firm texture. It has smaller claws than the Maine lobster.

• Frozen Lobster Meat/Tails – Frozen raw lobster meat or cooked lobster tails offer the convenience of enjoying lobster without needing to extract the meat. Often sourced from Maine lobsters.

• Slipper Lobster – Found in Europe, this clawless lobster is named for its slipper-like shape. The tail provides the prized lobster meat. An affordable option.

The prices vary based on which type of lobster you choose with Maine and European lobsters commanding the highest pricing in Bangalore.

Where to Buy Lobster in Bangalore

Obtaining lobster in Bangalore requires a bit of effort compared to American and European coastal cities. Here are some of the top options for buying fresh and frozen lobster:

• Premium Seafood Shops – Upscale seafood stores located within Bangalore such as FreshToHome source and sell fresh lobsters when available. Prices are on the higher side.

• Luxury Hotels – Many 5-star hotels have dedicated seafood specialty restaurants and import quality lobsters regularly. Ordering lobster dishes at their restaurants guarantees freshness.

• Online Seafood Stores – Websites like Lobster Anywhere, Gofresho, and Seafoo deliver fresh and frozen lobster straight to your home in Bangalore. Provides convenience but lower availability.

• Specialty Grocers – Some high-end grocery stores like Magsons source live and frozen lobsters sporadically. Call ahead to check availability before visiting.

• Fish Markets – Local fish markets rarely carry lobster but you may get lucky, especially during peak winter harvest seasons. Expect lower prices if found.

Booking in advance is recommended as lobster supplies are inconsistent. Be prepared to pay premium pricing at most sources.

How to Get the Best Deal on Lobsters in Bangalore

Lobster will never be cheap in a landlocked city like Bangalore. But you can still find ways to get the best value when buying this coveted crustacean:

• Time your purchase around September-March when lobster is in peak harvest season in colder waters, leading to better availability and lower prices in Bangalore.

• Buy whole frozen lobsters to avoid the higher costs of live lobsters and lobster meat packages. You can cook frozen lobsters straight from frozen.

• Check online seafood stores regularly as they may offer promos and discounts to clear out excess supplies. Sign up for email lists to get special sale alerts.

• Be open to trying more affordable lobster varieties like rock lobsters and slipper lobsters which offer similar sweet flavor.

• Purchase lobster as part of a seafood platter or combo deal which brings down the per kg pricing. Get a group together to split a multi-lobster order.

• Negotiate prices at local fish markets and specialty grocers, especially when buying multiple lobsters at once.

• Consider eating lobster at restaurants during lunch buffets or prix fixe promotions when dishes are discounted compared to dinner.

With some strategic timing and savvy sourcing, you can land yourself quality lobsters in Bangalore at the best possible market price.

Estimated Costs for Eating Lobster in Bangalore Restaurants

To enjoy the full lobster experience in Bangalore, your best option is to visit restaurants that regularly feature lobster in their menus. Here are typical price ranges you can expect to pay when dining on lobster dishes around the city:

• Appetizer with Lobster – Rs. 800 to Rs. 1500

• Lobster Bisque Soup – Rs. 1000 to Rs. 1800

• Salad with Lobster Chunks – Rs. 1200 to Rs. 2000

• Butter Garlic Lobster Tail – Rs. 1500 to Rs. 2500

• Lobster Thermidor – Rs. 2000 to Rs. 3000

• Baked Whole Lobster – Rs. 2500 to Rs. 4000

• Lobster Pizza – Rs. 1800 to Rs. 2800

As you can see, enjoying lobster at restaurants comes at a premium cost with most dishes priced above Rs. 1500 on average. Multi-course lobster tasting menus at 5-star hotels can easily cost over Rs. 5000 per person. However, restaurants do offer the chance to savor expertly prepared lobster creations.

For the ultimate lobster indulgence on special occasions, an upscale restaurant experience in Bangalore is worth the splurge. But opt for shared dishes and lunch deals whenever possible to make it more wallet-friendly.

Is Eating Lobster Worth the Cost in Bangalore?

Only you can decide whether enjoying lobster in Bangalore is worth the steep price. Given the costs involved in transporting live seafood inland, lobster will always be priced at a premium in this city.

For hardcore seafood lovers, an authentic lobster meal is a special treat that validates the cost. The sweet, succulent meat texture and delicate ocean flavor can’t be replicated by other foods. Portions are also fairly large with a whole lobster yielding on average 400-500 grams of edible lobster meat.

However, those on a budget may be better off choosing cheaper seafood options that Bangalore has to offer. There are more affordable ways to satisfy a seafood craving like prawns, clams, squid and even crab.

In the end, it comes down to how badly you are craving the distinctive lobster experience. For a truly memorable gastronomic experience, lobster in Bangalore is worth rationalizing the price tag every once in a while.

Lobster remains an elite gourmet food item in Bangalore that comes at a staggering price point. Expect to pay anywhere from Rs. 2000 to Rs. 6000 per kg based on the type of lobster purchased. Due to transportation challenges, limited supply, and high demand – lobster will continue to be priced at a premium in this landlocked Indian city.

For seafood fans who view lobster as the pinnacle of fine dining, finding ways to enjoy it in Bangalore is well worth the effort. Checking seafood specialty restaurants and stores can yield occasional availability if you time it right. And splurging on lobster every so often for special occasions can be justified for the unmatched flavor and palate experience.

But those seeking regular budget seafood meals are better off looking to other offerings in Bangalore outside of the luxury lobster realm. Ultimately, deciding whether this claw-to-tail crustacean delicacy warrants the price tag comes down to personal preference and the depth of one’s lobster obsession.