Oyster Etiquette – Order, Eat and Enjoy Oysters with Ease Thanks to These Expert Tips
Even the most confident of us have at some point been quite intimidated when ordering and enjoying oysters out in the public arena. It’s just like any other skill you’ve mastered and will quickly become second nature with just a little practice. If you’re a newbie to the world of oysters these expert tips will get you slurping without fear!
Timing is Everything
The best months of the year to eat Sanctuary Oysters is generally late fall through early summer. We give our oysters a little vacation during the time when the natural environment our oysters are growing in is not favorable for harvesting. It’s very important to sustainably grow and harvest these mouthwatering little gems in order to provide the best experience for our customers.
Location, Location, Location
They say in real estate location is the most important factor in finding the best property to buy and in the world of oysters this also rings true! Search for local restaurants with raw oyster bars with great reputations or dining locations known for sourcing the best product.
Awe, Shucks
Make sure your oysters are shucked to order, meaning they are live and shucked just before they are brought to your table to ensure their freshness. If you are dining at home, check out our video on tools you’ll need to have on hand as well as how to expertly shuck oysters here.
Bottoms up
Oysters should smell fresh like the sea and be served in its shell with its own juices, or “liquor”. We suggest you try your first oyster without any additional condiments or with a small spritz of lemon or lime so the fresh flavors of the oyster can be fully experienced. Pick up your oyster, making sure you don’t spill, hold to your lips, slurp, then chew – making sure not to immediately swallow as you don’t want to miss out on all the delicate flavors brought out by masticating. Once you’ve tossed your oyster back lay the empty shell upside down on the ice and you’re ready to try the next combination.
Next Level Sauces
From there you can dress up your oyster with an array of different flavor options including horseradish, hot sauce or mignonette, which is commonly served with oysters and is a simple mixture of shallots, pepper and vinegar. You’ll find your favorite combination with a little experimentation and if you’re ready for some next level sauces, here is a little inspiration.
Cheers!
Go with a classic and order yourself a flute of champagne for your first pairing. The carbonated, crisp beverage cleanses your palate in between oysters, compliments the briny nature of the mollusk and cuts through the creaminess. Whether you choose champagne, chardonnay or a pint of beer there’s plenty to of sips to go along with your slurps. Here are our suggestions for the best beverages to pair with oysters.
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re ready to confidently slurp oysters across Southern California. If you’d like to purchase for dining at home, head over to our where to buy page to find a list of locations Sanctuary Oysters are available. Insider’s Tip: Give your local seafood market from the link above a call as they will have the best suggestions as to what restaurants Sanctuary Oysters can be found at in your area!