Shrimp and prawns are not interchangeable. They’re both crustaceans and their shelled meat might look and eat similarly, but they’re different sea creatures. Shrimp are generally smaller, and more coiled, with milder flavor. Prawns are larger, with more pincers, and sweeter meat. Mexican white shrimp and black tiger prawns are two of the most readily available species in Los Angeles, though premium sushi bars and more luxurious restaurants also source species like shiro ebi (translucent Japanese baby white shrimp) and Carabineros (Spanish red prawns). Spot prawns are the pinnacle for me when it comes to crustaceans. When they’re in season from places like Santa Barbara, British Columbia or Japan, pounce. Find my favorite Los Angeles shrimp and prawns dishes since 2022, not including sushi or ceviche (this time).

AttaGirl Soft Shell Prawns (Seasonal) – Hermosa Beach ↓

Banana Leaf Fresh Gongura Leaves Shrimp Curry – Redondo Beach ↓

Bar Besito Grilled Prawns – Silver Lake ↓

Barra Santos Prawns – Cypress Park ↓

Camélia Red Prawns – Arts District ↓

Cannonball Prawns – South Pasadena ↓

Caribbean Gourmet Curry Shrimp (Weekend Special) – San Gabriel ↓

Coucou Wood-Fired Prawn Cocktail – Manhattan Beach, Santa Monica + West Hollywood ↓

Crudo E Nudo Roasted Prawns – Santa Monica ↓

Henry’s Cuisine Prawns with Glass Noodles – Alhambra ↓

Kurrypinch Deviled Delicacy Shrimp – Hollywood ↓

Mother Wolf Gamberi in Salsa Verde – Hollywood ↓

Mr. Wanderlust Jumbo Shrimp Cocktail – DTLA ↓

The Mulberry Soy Marinade Blue Prawns – Sawtelle Japantown ↓

Padi Grilled Blue Prawns – Hollywood ↓

Savta New Caledonia Blue Prawns @ The Original Farmers Market – Los Angeles ↓

Taste of the Caribbean LA Jerk Shrimp – Hollywood + Long Beach ↓

Yerord Mas Bakery & Deli Shrimp Jajikh (Currently Not Available) – Glendale ↓