City of Fall River recognizes Maria and the late Lazaro Sardinha with Fall River Icon Award

The City of Fall River honored a couple on Thursday who has run a successful business in the city for decades.

Maria Sardinha and the late Lazaro Sardinha are the founders of David’s Fish Market, a beloved, family-owned fresh seafood market in Fall River.

Lazaro and Maria started the business in 1961 as a small retail seafood shop at 257 Davis Street, focusing on providing the freshest local catch to the community.

The Sardinha family built the market on quality and personal selection of seafood from local fishermen. In the 1970s, Lazaro expanded it into wholesale operations while maintaining the retail side.

David’s Fish Market has remained family-operated across three generations.

It has earned local accolades, including multiple Readers’ Choice Awards.

The market continues to thrive today, offering over 15 varieties of fresh fish, shrimp, live lobsters, scallops, and seasonal catches.

On Thursday morning, Mayor Paul Coogan in collaboration with Axis Bats and David’s Fish Market presented Maria and her late husband Lazaro with the Fall River Icon Award to recognize their contributions to the city.