Search
7
Share
Mother Ocean Seafood Market
What you need to know
Mother Ocean Market on Merrimon Avenue is Asheville’s go-to seafood fix, bringing the freshest fish and shellfish from the Carolinas straight to local plates. Whether it’s wild-caught shrimp, buttery lobster rolls, or their straight-up legendary oyster po’boys, this market and lunch counter serves up a blend of classic flavors and creative specials. Voted “Best Fresh Fish Seller” and “Best Seafood Lunch” in WNC multiple years running, Mother Ocean is the real deal for foodies and local chefs alike. Mother Ocean isn’t just a grab-and-go market. There’s a full lunch and dinner menu Tuesday through Saturday—try baskets of peel-and-eat shrimp, crispy fish tacos, or a monster tuna melt. Everything is made with sustainably sourced seafood and served with heaps of local love, making this a must for Asheville seafood fans
Local's Tip
Don’t sleep on the daily specials or the house-made sides—coleslaw, Old Bay fries, and those hush puppies are next-level. For the freshest picks, ask what just came off the morning truck, and don’t forget: you can order lunch and dinner for takeout or delivery.
What the locals say
Ask around and you’ll find plenty of Asheville regulars who swear by Mother Ocean for everything from grilling at home to weekday lunches that taste like a trip to the coast. People rave about the rotating menu (there’s always something new!) and the friendly, no-fuss vibe—plus easy parking and quick takeout on busy nights. It’s the kind of place where knowledgeable folks behind the counter remember your favorite catch and share honest tips about what’s best that day.
What you need to know
Mother Ocean Market on Merrimon Avenue is Asheville’s go-to seafood fix, bringing the freshest fish and shellfish from the Carolinas straight to local plates. Whether it’s wild-caught shrimp, buttery lobster rolls, or their straight-up legendary oyster po’boys, this market and lunch counter serves up a blend of classic flavors and creative specials. Voted “Best Fresh Fish Seller” and “Best Seafood Lunch” in WNC multiple years running, Mother Ocean is the real deal for foodies and local chefs alike. Mother Ocean isn’t just a grab-and-go market. There’s a full lunch and dinner menu Tuesday through Saturday—try baskets of peel-and-eat shrimp, crispy fish tacos, or a monster tuna melt. Everything is made with sustainably sourced seafood and served with heaps of local love, making this a must for Asheville seafood fans
What the locals say
Ask around and you’ll find plenty of Asheville regulars who swear by Mother Ocean for everything from grilling at home to weekday lunches that taste like a trip to the coast. People rave about the rotating menu (there’s always something new!) and the friendly, no-fuss vibe—plus easy parking and quick takeout on busy nights. It’s the kind of place where knowledgeable folks behind the counter remember your favorite catch and share honest tips about what’s best that day.
Scoops for Mother Ocean Seafood Market