What is a langostino lobster?

A langostino lobster is not a lobster at all, nor is it a prawn, even though it is classified as a squat lobster; it is a close relative of hermit and porcelain crabs. Langostinos come from one of three species from the family Galatheidae. It is served in seafood restaurants and is cheaper than traditional lobster.

Langostinos are in the same order as the American lobster or spiny lobster, but in a different infraorder. The edible portion of the langostino is located in its inch-long tail. The flavor of langostino is more like crab or lobster, with a texture that is much like shrimp.