New Shop Opens in Former Beth's Fish Market

There is a new fish store in town. 

On Friday, Neil Hanrahan, a retired Westhampton Beach cop, opened Sherins Sea Food Market in the former Beth's Seafood location. 

The new fish market, named for Hanrahan's grandfather, who was a clammer in the Great South Bay, officially opened its doors at 9 a.m. 

The new store opens in a locale that had been a fish market for over 40 years, first known as Bennett Seafood, then running under Starr Boggs until it was leased by Beth's. 

Hanrahan said he is hoping to keep his new business open for a long-time, enticing customers with weekly surprises, including free oysters with pearls, a duck race for the kids, a local wall of fame and 3-D movies.  

"I want to make this place more of an experience than just a fish market," said Hanrahan.

Hanrahan has also tapped into the expertise of 79-year-old Bill Bennett, who is advising him on many facets of the business. 

"Bill's 40 years in the seafood business are immeasurable," said Hanrahan. 

And of couse, the biggest advice anyone can give to a new fish market is to make sure the fish is fresh. 

And that it will be, said Hanrahan, who says he is working with local fishermen out of Shinnecock, as well as clammers to ensure his seafood is the freshest. 

He said it will all be locally landed with the exception of lobster and when the brown-tide rolls in and the DEC puts a stop to local shellfishing as it has done in recent years.

Lobsters, he said, will come from Maine and Nova Scotia and will be kept in salt water tanks with salt water piped as opposed to being man-made, which Hanrahan said makes a big difference. 

In addition to fresh fish, the shop is offering a catering menu and a variety of prepared foods, including lobster rolls, fish tacos and lobster salad, among other speciality dishes. 

Also, the shelves are stocked with organic produce, spices and dressings. 

The store, located at 11 Parlato Place,  is open daily from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.