If you’re not oyster eater it can be intimidating to slurp one down in public if you don’t know what you’re doing. It’s certainly not your typical seafood fish or meal that you can use a fork and knife for. It requires a certain technique to master the art. Luckily, it’s not too difficult once you get the hang of it! Like everything else, practice makes perfect. We have some tips to help you dig into your oyster and look like you know what you’re doing. Before you know it, you’ll be tossing them back like the pros!
LOOSEN THE OYSTER
Use the smallest fork to gently loosen the oyster from the shell. This will allow it to slide into your mouth smoothly. Once it’s loosened, raise the edge of the shell to your lips and gently tip it back until the entire oyster has slid into your mouth. Don’t drain off the liquid, known as oyster liquor, from the shell before you eat it either. This liquid perfectly compliments the flavors of the oyster and shouldn’t be wasted!
DON’T FORGET TO CHEW
It’s a common misconception that you should swallow an oyster whole. Chewing an oyster is the best way to enjoy the full flavor profile. Savor the oyster and take your time chewing before you swallow.
DISCARD THE EMPTY SHELL
Once you’ve eaten the oyster, you need to discard the remaining shell. You can do this either by placing it back on the ice it was served on or placing it to the side on a plate. Be sure to place the oyster face down once you’re finished.
ONLY EAT FRESH OYSTERS
Enjoying only fresh oysters will set you up for a successful oyster-eating experience. The fresher the oyster, the better. Ask the restaurant you’re dining at when the oysters were harvested and where they were harvested from. Generally speaking, fresh oysters will be harvested locally. Inspecting the oyster before you eat it is another great way to determine if it’s fresh or not. A fresh oyster should have a shell that’s unopened when it arrives at your table.
DON’T ADD SAUCE
Enjoying some seafood with cocktail sauce is acceptable and even encouraged, but oysters have a flavor that stands on its own. Stick to just a drop of lemon juice and let the flavors of the oyster speak for themselves.
Want to Try Our Fresh Fish & Drink Options!? Come into Breakwater!
BREAKWATER at Stonington Harbor is a waterfront restaurant located on the Connecticut shoreline in the Stonington Borough. BREAKWATER features seafood & more, specialty cocktails, stunning sunsets & views of Stonington Harbor & Fishers Island Sound. We offer gorgeous all season sunsets & a roomy bar to keep you warm in the winter!
OPEN! 5 Days A Week
OPEN Â Wednesday – SundayCLOSED Â Monday & Tuesday
11:30 – 9:00Â for full service dining & our full menu available for takeout!Â
