What is a Balmain bug?
A Balmain bug is a flat, slipper lobster found in waters off southern and eastern Australia, especially New South Wales. It is named after the Sydney suburb of Balmain and is prized for its sweet tail meat.
Balmain bugs are closely related to Moreton Bay bugs but live in cooler, southern waters, from southern Queensland around to Western Australia. They have a broad, flattened shell and paddle-like antennae instead of long feelers.
They are caught mainly by trawlers and sold at fish markets such as the Sydney Fish Market. Their meat is firm and sweet, similar to lobster but more affordable.
Cooking bugs
Balmain bugs are often split and grilled on the barbecue with garlic butter, or served in pasta, salads and seafood platters. Chefs value them for their delicate flavour.
The name bug for these crustaceans is used only in Australia, and visitors are often surprised to see bugs on restaurant menus.
Balmain, a harbourside suburb in Sydney's inner west, was once a working-class area of shipyards and docks. It is now known for its heritage pubs and terrace houses. Bugs are a popular part of Christmas seafood feasts in New South Wales.
Did You Know?
Balmain bugs are slipper lobsters of the family Scyllaridae, like Moreton Bay bugs.