Whether buying fresh or frozen, inspect for these red flags: How to Pick a Good Lobster: A New Englander’s Guide

The single most important factor is the water temperature where the lobster was caught. Cold Water (Highly Recommended) Warm Water (Budget Option) Maine, Canada, New Zealand, Australia Florida, Caribbean, Latin America Flavor Sweet, "clean," and briny Fishier, milder, or sometimes like ammonia Texture Firm and succulent Soft, mushy, or rubbery Visuals White meat; dark blue/greenish shells May have black or yellow spots/bands on shells Cost More expensive Often half the price (the "$10 grocery deal")

Why Should You Choose Live Lobster * If you can pick your lobster, look for the one that is most active and perhaps the feistiest. | Nothing But New England A Guide to Catch the Best Frozen Lobster Tails