This Classic Florida Seafood Market Is Known for Its Incredible Royal Red Shrimp
If you love seafood, Joe Patti’s Seafood in Pensacola feels like stepping into a living legend. The counters sparkle with fresh catches, the steamers hiss, and the staff runs the floor with clockwork precision. You can grab a number, browse the cases, and be on your way with dinner in minutes.
Stick around and you will discover why locals and travelers rave about those famous Royal Reds.
1. The Royal Red Shrimp Experience
Royal Reds are the showstopper here, sweet and almost lobster like, with a delicate snap. You take a number, watch the line move fast, and pick your size before asking for them steamed spicy. The aroma rides home with you, making it hard to wait before digging in.
These shrimp are not always from Florida, but they are consistently delicious and carefully handled. Staff will peel and devein on request, which is a lifesaver if you are planning a quick dinner. Add remoulade, Boom Boom, or cocktail sauce for an easy feast.
Pro tip: do not overcook them at home. Royal Reds cook quickly, so gentle heat keeps that buttery texture perfect.
2. How To Shop The Counter Like A Local
Walk in, grab a number, and scan the cases while you wait. The selection rotates with the season, so ask what just came in and what they recommend for grilling, pan searing, or frying. Keep a cooler in your car for longer drives, since you will likely buy more than planned.
The crew moves fast, but they are happy to portion, trim, or pack ice. If you want steaming, tell them at checkout and choose your seasoning level. Prices can vary, with incredible deals on fresh fish and higher tags on select specialties.
When your number is called, be ready to order confidently. You will get fresher fish, a smoother experience, and dinner handled in minutes.
3. Beyond The Shrimp: Fish, Scallops, And Oysters
There is so much more than shrimp. You will spot tuna steaks ready for a hot cast iron sear, sea scallops that caramelize beautifully, and whole red snapper begging for the grill. Oysters fly out by the sack, perfect for a raw bar night or a backyard roast.
Ask for guidance on prep and cooking times if you are new to seafood. Staff suggestions make weeknight dinners effortless and special occasions shine. If you see a killer deal, do not hesitate, because popular cuts sell out quickly.
Some items are priced higher, especially premium picks like lump crab or seasonal imports. Stick to what is freshest and you will eat like royalty without overspending.
4. Steamed To Perfection While You Wait
One of the best perks is having your seafood steamed on site. You can choose mild to spicy seasoning and walk out with hot shrimp or crab legs ready to eat. That means picnic lunches at a nearby park or an easy dinner back at the rental.
The steaming crew nails timing, so shrimp stay juicy and crab legs crack clean. Get sauces from the deli case to round everything out. If you are driving far, ask for less steaming time and finish gently at home.
It is quick, affordable, and perfect for travelers who do not have a full kitchen. You get freshness without fuss, and every bite tastes like vacation.
5. Deli, Fresh Bread, And Sushi In The Back
Do not miss the deli tucked inside. You can grab tuna dip, salmon salad, shrimp salad, and house sauces that turn simple seafood into something craveable. Fresh baguettes come out warm, and they pair perfectly with dips or a quick po boy build.
There is even a sushi bar rolling bright, clean flavors for a market snack or easy lunch. If you have a sweet tooth, the gelato and desserts make a fun finish. Grab wine or craft beer next door to complete the spread.
This is a full experience, not just a fish run. You will leave with dinner, sides, sauces, and a treat for later, all in one stop.
6. When To Go, Where To Park, And Hours
Plan your visit around opening hours, typically 8 AM to 6 PM daily. Mornings are calmer, with fresher picks and faster service. Weekends can be lively, but the team runs like a well oiled machine, so the line moves quicker than you expect.
There is a large parking lot with easy access and room for coolers. If you are grabbing steamed seafood, double bag to keep the car tidy. Have ice packs ready if you plan to wander downtown afterward.
Call ahead for availability on special items like head on Royal Reds. Inventory shifts with weather and season, so flexibility keeps expectations happy and dinners stellar.
7. Perfect Pairings And Easy Cooking Tips
Keep cooking simple to let freshness shine. For Royal Reds, a quick steam or gentle butter poach preserves that sweet lobster like bite. Tuna loves a hot sear, scallops need a dry surface and two minutes per side, and snapper excels roasted whole with citrus.
Grab house sauces and fresh bread to make sides effortless. A crisp salad, steamed veggies, or rice pilaf completes the plate without stealing the show. Chill a zesty white wine or a light beer from the market selection.
Most importantly, do not overcook. Seafood carries over with residual heat, so pull it earlier than you think. You will taste the ocean, clean and bright, in every mouthful.
