It’s National Oyster Day – Let’s Celebrate!
The sun is shining, the Gulf Coast is sparkling, and there’s no better time to indulge in some fresh, delicious oysters! Forget the myths about only eating oysters in months with an “R” – thanks to sustainable practices, enjoying these briny treats is safe year-round.
August 5th marks National Oyster Day, and here on the Suncoast, we take our oysters seriously. Whether you prefer them freshly shucked, charbroiled, baked, fried, or in a shooter, oysters are a delicacy to be savored. From casual eateries to classy establishments, here are some top spots to enjoy oysters on the Suncoast.
1592 Wood Fired Kitchen & Cocktails (Downtown Sarasota)
Don’t Miss: Thursday Oyster Special
Sarasota’s 1592 Wood Fired Kitchen offers a delightful oyster experience with their fresh James River (Virginia) Oysters. Served on the half shell with mignonette, horseradish, and cocktail sauce, these oysters are a must-try. Enjoy their Thursday special of six oysters for $10 or a dozen for $15. Beyond oysters, 1592 offers innovative cuisine made from the freshest market produce, creating a vibrant dining atmosphere.
The Chateau Anna Maria (Holmes Beach, AMI)
Indulge: The Seafood Tower
For a decadent seafood experience, The Chateau Anna Maria’s Seafood Tower is a show-stopper. This icy display overflows with Maine lobster, king crab, jumbo shrimp, seared ahi tuna, and raw oysters on the half shell. Located at the Waterline Marina Resort on Anna Maria Island, this French-inspired restaurant adds an American flair for a memorable meal.
Crow’s Nest Restaurant & Marina (Venice)
Signature Dishes: Southern Fried Oysters and Oysters Rockefeller
Crow’s Nest in Venice offers a delightful array of oyster dishes. From Gulf and Pacific oysters on the half shell to luxurious Oysters Rockefeller with spinach, bacon, and hollandaise sauce, there’s something for every palate. Their Southern-fried oysters, marinated in buttermilk and fried to golden perfection, are a must-try.
Duval’s Fresh. Local. Seafood. (Downtown Sarasota)
Classic: Oyster Po’ Boy
In the heart of downtown Sarasota, Duval’s serves some of the freshest local seafood. Their Oyster Po’ Boy, served on a baguette with napa cabbage, tomato, and chipotle remoulade, is a lunchtime favorite. They also offer free delivery to the greater Sarasota downtown area.
Element Steak. Seafood. Pasta (Downtown Sarasota)
Special Offer: 2 Bucks a Shuck Wednesdays
Element in downtown Sarasota offers a great mid-week pick-me-up with their “2 Bucks a Shuck” oyster special every Wednesday. Enjoy fresh oysters on the half shell or Rockefeller Oysters for $4 each, available from 4 pm to 10 pm.
Fins at Sharky’s (Venice)
Decadent: Oysters Rockefeller
Fins at Sharky’s offers a sophisticated oyster selection with stunning views. Their Oysters Rockefeller, Josper baked and topped with spinach, onions, garlic, Parmesan, bacon, Pernod, and lemon caper aioli, are a standout. Enjoy a variety of fresh raw oysters daily with their Dozen Oyster Combo.
Gulf Drive Cafe (Bradenton Beach, AMI)
Relaxed: Seasonal Raw Oysters
Gulf Drive Cafe on Bradenton Beach offers a perfect setting to savor raw oysters with cocktail sauce, rosé mignonette, and horseradish. Enjoy live music and a cold cocktail for the ultimate Florida experience.
Jack Dusty (Sarasota)
Sophisticated: Plump Oysters on the Half Shell
Located in The Ritz-Carlton, Jack Dusty offers plump, freshly shucked oysters with elevated accompaniments like charred lemon and house-made sauces. Their Seafood Tower, featuring oysters, shrimp ceviche, fish dip, and tuna poke, is a must-try.
Kolucan (Sarasota’s Gulf Gate Village)
Unique: Cabo Grilled Oysters
Kolucan Mexican Bar & Grill delights with their limited-time Cabo Grilled Oysters, served with jalapeno-lime butter and Telera toast. This dish is part of their Summer Dining Experience, a three-course menu for $45 per person.
Mar Vista Dockside Restaurant & Bar (Longboat Key)
Rotating Selection: Oysters du Jour
Mar Vista on Longboat Key showcases a rotating selection of oysters on their Daily Features Menu. Favorites include Merek Point, Treasure Coast, and Beau Soleil oysters.
Michael’s on East (Sarasota)
Fine Dining: Farm-Raised East Coast Oysters
Michael’s On East offers Farm-Raised East Coast Oysters with classic and unique accompaniments like pickled ginger and seaweed salad. Perfect for a special occasion.
Ophelia’s on The Bay (Siesta Key)
Waterfront Dining: Baked Oysters
Ophelia’s on The Bay features a nightly menu with baked oyster dishes like Rockefeller, Casino, and Bienville. Their ever-changing menu and stunning water views make for a memorable dining experience.
Paradise Grill (Nokomis)
Bold Flavors: Bloody Mary Oyster Shooter
Paradise Grill offers a range of oyster dishes, including fresh oysters on the half shell, Bloody Mary Oyster Shooters, and Oysters Rockefeller. Enjoy these treats in a relaxed, Florida sunshine-filled setting.
Pop’s Sunset Grill (Nokomis)
Variety: Oysters on the Half Shell and More
Pop’s Sunset Grill offers a tempting selection of oysters from Blue Points to Virginia oysters. Their Garlic Parmesan and Oysters Rockefeller are indulgent options, and you can add oysters to their signature Steamship Pot.
The Riverhouse Waterfront Restaurant (Palmetto)
Scenic: Oysters Casino
Located in Palmetto’s historic district, The Riverhouse offers stunning views of the Manatee River and a delightful oyster selection. Enjoy shucked oysters or Oysters Casino at their Main Restaurant or the more upscale Second Floor dining area.
Eat Like a Local
For an authentic taste of the Suncoast, seek out locally-owned independent establishments. These homegrown gems often serve the freshest catch with unique flair. Experience the best local flavors and support your community by eating like a local.
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