pescadería

A pescadería is a shop or stall that specializes in selling fish and seafood to the public. The term comes from pescador, fisherman, plus -ería, indicating a place of business. It is commonly used in Spain and Latin American countries.

Typical offerings include fresh fish (whole or filleted), shellfish, crustaceans, and mollusks. Many pescaderías also sell prepared items such as marinated fish, ceviche, fried fish, and various canned seafood. On request, staff often perform cleaning, gutting, descaling, filleting, or deboning.

Pescaderías source their products from local fleets or wholesalers and keep items on ice or in refrigerated display cases to maintain freshness. A key aspect of the trade is product turnover and freshness indicators, such as bright eyes, firm flesh, and a clean, ocean-like smell. Staff frequently provide advice on selection, storage, and basic preparation.

Regulatory frameworks govern hygiene, labeling, origin, and freshness standards, varying by country. Businesses must comply with health inspections and food-safety practices, including clean facilities, proper sanitation, and waste management.

Pescaderías play a significant role in traditional markets and coastal economies, supporting local fishers and providing access to a range of seafood. Regional variations exist in terminology and practices, with pescadería referring to the shop and pescadero or pescadera to the person who works there.