Houston-Sized Oysters

It’s been about two years since we’ve visited The Big Easy.  For me, the absolute first thing I think of when New Orleans is mentioned is oysters.  I’ve been to NOLA twice and both times it’s been for work, so free time has been very limited.  For our third visit, guess what, we are once again working.  Maybe that is why nearly all of my experiences in New Orleans revolve around food.

Arriving sparked memories of flavors and good times. Many of those good times involved oysters! Not everyone is an oyster fan. For many, oysters are an acquired taste. I didn’t start eating oysters until my late 20s! Seems crazy now. If you’re curious and excited to get started, Buzzfeed has a great oyster primer to read up on the basics so you don’t commit a major faux pas. Below are a few examples of oysters that we’ve had the pleasure to enjoy.  We’d love to see and hear about some of your experiences!

Miyajima, Japan

These tasty guys were nearly two bites each! They were the perfect snack with a cold beer. Oyster farming goes back over 300 years in Miyajima, Japan. The annual Oyster Festival takes place in February. There, you can sample the famous Onoseto oysters and more prepared in a myriad of ways: fried, raw, in udon noodle soup and stews, and even oyster chowder.

Grilled oysters from Jaeger’s in Jefferson, Louisiana.

If you’ve never had grilled oysters then you are missing out!  Just make sure everyone in your party has at least a bite. The garlic is powerful! These are easy to find around New Orleans.

Harbor Seafood

Harbor Seafood & Oyster Bar is a hidden gem in Kenner, Louisiana.  Great oysters at bargain prices are a must.  The philosophy here seems to be selling volume. Last time we were there, oysters were $6.50 a dozen! We could hardly stop ourselves from ordering a third dozen. We shared great conversation with the oyster shucker, who was recently back in Louisiana after having been displaced and moving to Texas after Hurricane Katrina.

Loch Fyne Oysters

These were way more than “Fyne,” they were outstanding.  Located in the Scottish Highlands on Loch Fyne and aptly named Loch Fyne Oysters, this place rocks.  The company works closely with the Marine Conservation Society, and operate their own non-profit, the Loch Fyne Oyster Trust, with a goal to grow the best oysters possible in the beautiful, clear lake. Just down the road is a brewery that is not to be missed either.

Pacific Oysters

Although you may pay a bit extra for these, they sure are pretty aren’t they? Pacific oysters are originally from Japan, but abound on the west coast of the US. The Kumamoto is a related species.

Although we don’t have photos, some of our favorite oysters were from Apalachicola Bay, on the Florida panhandle. Indian Pass Raw Bar is a great place to try some. Being from Cape Cod, we also have to mention those delicious, light and salty Welfleet Oysters. Chatham, Wianno and Cotuit (where they’ve been raising their variety since 1837) are some other notables from Cape Cod. A new-found favorite spot is The Oyster Company in Dennis, MA. They serve up their signature Quivet Neck oysters for $1.25 a piece during “raw Deal” hours ending at 6:30 pm.