New York City is known for its diverse and vibrant culinary scene. From street food vendors to Michelin-starred restaurants, the city has something to offer for every food lover.
One of the most popular and sought-after delicacies in NYC is oysters. Whether you prefer them raw, grilled, fried, or baked, the city has numerous places that serve the freshest and tastiest oysters.
Oysters have been a part of the New York City cuisine for centuries. The city's coastal location and rich maritime history have made it a hub for oyster cultivation and consumption.
Today, oysters are still a staple of the city's cuisine, and you can find them in virtually every neighborhood. However, not all oyster bars and restaurants are created equal. Some stand out for their exceptional quality, variety, and ambiance.
If you're a fan of oysters or want to try them for the first time, you're in luck. In this blog post, we'll explore some of the best places to find oysters in NYC. We'll take a look at some of the top oyster bars, seafood restaurants, and markets that offer a wide range of oysters from different regions and with various preparations.
Whether you're looking for a casual spot to enjoy a dozen oysters with a beer or a fancy restaurant to indulge in a luxurious oyster feast, we've got you covered. So, let's dive in and discover the best places for oysters in the Big Apple.
1. Ocean Prime
Ocean Prime is a high-end restaurant that specializes in steak and seafood. Their oysters are a must-try for any seafood enthusiast.
The staff is incredibly attentive and the atmosphere is elegant and sophisticated.
While prices are on the higher end, the quality of the food and service make it worth it.
It's the perfect place for a special occasion or a fancy night out.
2. Cull & Pistol
Cull & Pistol is a seafood restaurant that specializes in oysters. The establishment's subway-tiled interior creates a cozy and intimate atmosphere.
Their oysters are fresh and fairly priced, making it an excellent place to enjoy during happy hour.
The service is impeccable, and the staff is knowledgeable about their seafood offerings.
In addition to oysters, the restaurant offers a variety of seafood options, including a raw bar, lobster, and fish dishes. Cull & Pistol is a must-visit for seafood lovers looking for a quality dining experience.
3. Mermaid Oyster Bar
Mermaid Oyster Bar is a must-visit seafood spot for oyster lovers. The oysters here are fresh and tasty, and the lobster roll is on point.
The happy hour oysters are a steal at $1.50 until 6:30 pm. The service is attentive, even when it's packed. The complimentary dessert is a nice touch.
The atmosphere is friendly and relaxed, with good music and a coastal vibe. The varied fish dishes and decent wines by the glass make it a great spot for a night out.
The staff is friendly and accommodating, making the dining experience enjoyable. Mermaid Oyster Bar is definitely worth a visit for seafood lovers looking for a great dining experience.
4. Upstate Craft Beer & Oyster Bar
Upstate Craft Beer & Oyster Bar is a small oyster bar known for its popular happy hour. The restaurant has a rotating roster of craft beers and specializes in serving fresh and delicious oysters.
The seafood dishes are perfectly cooked and the atmosphere is cozy. The waiters are friendly and the service is excellent.
The restaurant offers a simple menu with locally sourced seafood. The half dozen oyster and beer special during happy hour is a great deal.
The owner is knowledgeable about the sourcing of everything that goes through the restaurant. The restaurant is definitely worth a visit for seafood and beer lovers.
5. Sagaponack
Sagaponack is a seafood restaurant with a beachfront feel that serves a variety of oysters in three different formats.
Their oyster menu is impressive, and the dishes are shareable. The staff is friendly and professional, creating a relaxed atmosphere.
The restaurant also offers a well-priced happy hour menu. The food is delicious, and the presentation of each dish is on point.
Sagaponack is a great place to hang out with friends and enjoy some tasty seafood options.
6. Crave Fishbar
Crave Fishbar is a must-visit for seafood lovers looking for a great oyster selection.
Their happy hour offers good prices for Manhattan and the main dishes are delicious.
The restaurant has a slightly upscale atmosphere, with vintage decorations and a long marble bar.
The staff is knowledgeable and attentive, and the food is always fresh and well-prepared. Highly recommended for a nice evening out or brunch with friends.
7. Fish Market
Fish Market is a hidden gem for seafood lovers. The fresh oysters are a must-try, bursting with flavor.
The casual atmosphere and friendly bartender make for a great dining experience.
Don't be fooled by the unassuming appearance, the rest of the menu is just as delicious.
Fish Market is a great spot for a seafood fix.
8. Ama Raw Bar East Village
Looking for fresh seafood with a twist of Asian influence in the East Village area of NYC, head to Ama Raw Bar.
This cozy spot offers a variety of raw oysters, seafood bites, and craft cocktails. The atmosphere is lively and perfect for a date or a night out with friends.
Don't miss the happy hour specials on oysters and drinks to start your evening off right. The mussels are a must-try, served in a lemongrass coconut broth that is packed with flavor.
Service is attentive, and the staff is happy to offer recommendations. Ama Raw Bar is a great addition to the neighborhood and worth checking out.
9. Flex Mussels
Flex Mussels is a seafood restaurant that specializes in mussels and oysters. The restaurant offers a wide variety of delicious mussels, including Thai, Diavolo, and Parmeggiano varieties.
The oysters are super fresh and tasty, leaving a lasting impression on the taste buds.
The staff is friendly and attentive, making the dining experience enjoyable. The ambiance is warm and inviting, providing a relaxing environment to savor the seafood delicacies.
The prices are reasonable, making it an excellent value for money. If you're a seafood lover, Flex Mussels is a must-visit destination.
10. Dark Bullet Sake & Oyster Bar
Dark Bullet Sake & Oyster Bar is a hidden gem that serves up fresh oysters from all over the world. With an interesting variety of sauces, the oysters are a must-try.
The friendly staff and great service make for a comfortable atmosphere. The Japanese dishes are delicious, and the sushi is not to be missed.
The bar also offers a large selection of premium sake and draft beer served in frozen mugs. The pool table in the back adds to the laid-back vibe.
If you're looking for a unique spot for oysters and drinks, Dark Bullet Sake & Oyster Bar is definitely worth checking out.
11. Cervo's
Cervo's is a seafood specialist that draws inspiration from coastal Spain and Portugal. The restaurant is known for its delicious oysters and Iberian-style seafood dishes.
The menu features an interesting selection of vermouths, and the green tomatoes with shrimp and golden rice with lobster are standouts.
The restaurant has a great vibe and is perfect for a romantic date night or drinks with friends.
The staff is attentive and the service is great. The restaurant also has a grocery and wine store.
12. Sel Rrose
Sel Rrose is a rustic-chic hangout that offers a full raw bar and French-inspired small plates.
The oysters are a must-try, especially during happy hour when they're priced at just $1 each. The selection of oysters is varied and all taste fresh and delicious.
The truffle fries are a great accompaniment to the oysters. The cocktails are expertly crafted and make for a great evening out.
The staff is friendly and welcoming, making for a great atmosphere. Sel Rrose is a great spot for a night out with friends or a date night.
13. Seamore's Upper East Side
Seamore's Upper East Side is a casual and relaxed eatery that serves up delicious and sustainable seafood.
Their oysters are a must-try, with a variety of options available. The bright and beachy interior creates a great atmosphere for dining with friends or family.
The attentive and knowledgeable staff make the experience even better.
If you're looking for a great place for oysters and seafood, Seamore's Upper East Side is definitely worth checking out.
14. Lure Fishbar
Lure Fishbar is a must-visit place for oyster lovers. The boat-like interior adds a touch of elegance to the dining experience.
The service is efficient and friendly, making it a pleasant experience.
The oysters with caviar and vodka are a must-try and the sushi is always fresh.
The prices may be a little steep, but the quality of the food justifies it. The restaurant is perfect for a romantic dinner or a night out with friends.
15. Drift In
Drift In is a waterfront oyster bar restaurant that serves fresh and delicious oysters alongside seafood dishes, burgers, cocktails, wines, and beers.
The limited menu may not have a lot of options, but the food is well executed. The atmosphere is cute and the view is beautiful, especially during sunset.
The staff is friendly and attentive, except for the hostess who could use some improvement. The drinks are great and the service is quick. However, the prices are a bit on the high side.
It's recommended to book in advance as spots fill up quickly with the nice weather. All in all, Drift In is a great spot for a light bite or a drink during summer nights and sunsets.
16. Ed's Lobster Bar
Ed's Lobster Bar is a seafood restaurant and bar that provides a New England fish-house vibe.
Their raw bar and lobster rolls are worth trying.
They offer half-off on oysters on Tuesdays. The service is friendly and attentive.
17. Docks Oyster Bar NYC
Docks Oyster Bar NYC is a must-visit for seafood lovers in the city. The restaurant offers fresh oysters and clams at reasonable prices, especially during happy hours.
The staff is friendly and welcoming, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
The menu offers classic French culinary techniques with a few Asian-inspired daily specials, making for a diverse and exciting selection.
The Smoked Oysters Rockefeller and Sauteed Maryland Crab Cakes are particularly noteworthy. The restaurant is conveniently located and reservations can be made easily through the OpenTable app.
18. Claw Daddy's
Claw Daddy's is a relaxed Cajun-Creole seafood restaurant that specializes in oysters. The raw oysters and broiled oysters are fantastic and come at a great price.
The staff is wonderfully attentive, and the space is large and airy with floor-to-ceiling windows.
They also offer a raw bar and craft beer. It can get busy during peak hours, so making a reservation is recommended.
Claw Daddy's is a great spot for oyster lovers looking for a casual dining experience.
19. Grand Central Oyster Bar
Grand Central Oyster Bar is a must-visit for seafood lovers. This iconic restaurant boasts a wide variety of fresh and delicious oysters, along with other seafood dishes.
The wait staff is professional, knowledgeable, and courteous, providing excellent service.
The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, perfect for a romantic dinner or a night out with friends. The restaurant also offers a nice selection of cocktails and a dessert menu that includes homemade cheesecake.
Prices are reasonable for the food, service, and ambiance. Don't miss out on this seafood gem!
