The prawns of Palamós and their history

The Palamós prawn, also known as the red prawn, is not just another seafood; it is a food with a deep flavor that has shaped the culture, economy, and above all the cuisine of Palamós for decades.

These prawns live in the deep parts of the Mediterranean, about 400-800 meters down, and are notable mainly for their reddish color, especially after cooking, their unique taste, and the large size they reach during the summer.

His story:

The history of shrimp dates back to the mid-20th century, in 1950, when fishermen from southern Catalonia and Valencia decided to introduce trawling techniques in the seas, and it was then that they discovered this delicious seafood.

From that moment on, there was a clear before and after for the fishermen of Palamós, as it marked a real change for the local economy and culture. The shrimp went from being a rarely seen product to becoming the star product at the port and market of Palamós, gaining more and more recognition and reputation outside of Catalonia.

In 2007, the Palamós shrimp obtained the Guarantee Mark that certifies its origin, traceability, and quality, which increased consumer trust and raised its economic value in both national and international markets.

Thanks to these measures that were implemented, the shrimp fishery in Palamós is considered one of the best managed in Catalonia, with overfishing rates lower than in other areas of the Mediterranean coast.

Places in Palamós to eat them:

• Restaurante La Gamba: It is one of the most well-known restaurants in town, since 1967, next to the port. You can enjoy the shrimp on its own grilled or in dishes with fresh, local ingredients, as an appetizer or a main course, without taking the spotlight away from the shrimp.
• L’Arcada: Mediterranean restaurant located in the center of Palamós in front of the town hall, known for its traditional cuisine and cozy atmosphere. The menu includes grilled prawns with market price. They also have a menu exclusively featuring prawns.
• Altamar: Right in the town area, near the promenade. A restaurant that offers Palamós prawns in different dishes and combinations. With fixed prawn prices on the menu (not market-dependent).
• La Perla: Traditional Catalan cuisine, but with a new, innovative touch and with fresh, high-quality products. With Palamós prawns included on the menu (200 g) and with a fixed price on the menu (not dependent on the market).