Where can I buy fresh whole octopus in manhattan?

just fyi, many chefs prefer frozen octopus because the freezing tenderizes the meat and you don't have to go through various tenderizing processes.

I would try Citarella Upper East or West or Greenwich Village.

I'd also check with Sea Breeze Fish Market (http://seabreezefishmarkets.com/) in Hell's Kitchen. I'm pretty sure I saw octopus last time I was there.

I'm sure Lobster Place in Chelsea Market would have sometimes, but I would call to check first (I was there yesterday and don't think I saw any fresh). I've seen octopus at Fairway before, I'd also bet Eataly carries it regularly... I'm sure there are lots of other places but those are a few guesses at least!