With oysters coming into season from September (as per the age-old rule that oysters should only be eaten during months with an ‘r’) we’ve put together some of the best spots across the capital to savour the delicious shellfish, from oysters perfectly paired with champagne to a must-try beef, Guinness and oyster pie. Keep reading to find out more and get inspired!
Top tips for eating oysters
Choose Fresh Oysters
- Freshness: Make sure the oysters are fresh. They should be tightly closed or close when tapped. If they remain open, they might be dead and unsafe to eat.
- Smell: Fresh oysters should smell like the sea—briny, but not fishy.
2. Shucking Oysters
- Use the Right Tool: Use an oyster knife, which is short and strong, to shuck (open) the oyster.
- Technique: Hold the oyster with a towel for a good grip and protection. Insert the knife at the hinge, twist until it pops open, then slide the knife along the top shell to detach the muscle.
- Presentation: Keep the oyster in its shell with the liquid inside, as it adds to the flavour.
3. Enhance the Flavor
- Lemon: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can enhance the natural flavour of the oyster.
- Mignonette Sauce: This traditional sauce made from vinegar, shallots, and pepper adds a nice tangy contrast.
- Hot Sauce: For those who enjoy a bit of spice, a drop or two of hot sauce can be delicious.
- Avoid Overpowering: While condiments can enhance the flavour, avoid using too much as it can mask the delicate taste of the oyster.
4. Eating the Oyster
- Slurp It: Hold the oyster shell to your lips, tilt it slightly, and slurp the oyster along with its liquor. You can chew a little to release more flavour or simply swallow it whole.
- Texture: Expect a soft, slightly firm texture
5. Pairing with Drinks
- Champagne or Sparkling Wine: The bubbles and acidity pair well with the briny flavour of oysters.
- Dry White Wine: Wines like Chablis, Muscadet, or Sauvignon Blanc complement oysters.
- Stout or Porter Beer: These beers can also pair nicely, balancing the richness of the oyster.
6. Etiquette
- Shell Placement: After eating, place the empty shell face down on the plate to indicate it’s been consumed.
- Order: If you have a variety of oysters, start with the mildest ones and work your way to the more robust flavors.
Where to get the best oysters in London
Ekstedt at The Yard: Trio of Oysters & Wine Pairing
Located within the iconic Great Scotland Yard Hotel, Ekstedt at the Yard is celebrating the start of the season with a new Oyster & Wine Pairing (£29), featuring a trio of oysters paired perfectly with a glass of premium Sussex sparkling wine. Creating a flavourful and rich culinary experience, enjoy the Classic Oyster with charlotte vinaigrette, a Cold Smoked Oyster served with fermented salsify and foam, and the restaurant’s renowned Flambadou Oyster with juniper smoked apple and molten beef dripping.
Address:3-5 Great Scotland Yard, London SW1A 2HN
Website: www.ekstedtattheyard.com
The Guinea Grill: Beef, Guinness and Oyster Pie
One of London’s oldest pubs and an iconic Mayfair institution, take a gastronomic journey backwards in time at The Guinea Grill, where there’s silver service and an unchanged à la carte menu from Head Chef Thiago Brigidi, including oysters specials. Priced at £24, enjoy ½ dozen Rock Oysters with shallot mignonette, or go above and beyond with the pub’s signature Beef, Guinness and Oyster pie (£35). The Guinea Grill is now open for bookings and walk-ins seven days a week from 11am-11pm (Sundays from 12pm).
Address: 30 Bruton Pl, Mayfair, W1J 6NL
Website: www.theguinea.co.uk
Rick Stein Barnes: Oysters & Champagne Terrace with Veuve Clicquot
Nestled away in the heart of South West London, Rick Stein Barnes hosts the perfect backdrop for a long weekend lunch or leisurely catch-up with friends. Begin your evening by soaking up the summer sun on the new Veuve Clicquot terrace, with a special aperitivo offer of two glasses of Veuve Clicquot Champagne alongside six classic oysters between two for £50, before heading inside to dine of the freshest seafood from Cornwall with riverside views of the Thames.
Address: Tideway Yard, 125 Mortlake High St, London SW14 8SW
Website: rickstein.com/restaurants/rick-stein-barnes
Kapara: Curious Oyster
Make your dinner extra shucking good with a round of Curious Oysters, served in true Kapara fashion – with a small crisp glass of Veuve Clicquot, Yellow Label Brut! Slurp down a fresh Malden oyster, topped with tomato & chilli chutney, sumac cured shallots and raspberry vinegar – perfect for both oyster aficionados and novices alike. Oysters can be enjoyed as a single with a glass of champagne for £12, with options of six and a dozen also available, either on the suntrap terrace or inside the glamourous restaurant.
Address: 14 Greek St, James Court, London W1D 4AL
Website: https://kapara.co.uk/
Lilienblum: Maldon Oyster with Chopped Salad
One of London’s most theatrical restaurants, Lilienblum oozes magic and innovation, with an eccentric and playful menu focusing on family-style sharing and seasonal dishes. Curated by world renowned celebrity chef, Eyal Shani, slurp and sip your way to pure bliss with the restaurant’s freshly shucked Maldon oyster, accompanied with a fresh chopped salad of delicately cut tomatoes, red onion, cucumber and parsley, seasoned with olive oil and lemon (priced from £4.50 per oyster) – pair with a glass of crisp white wine, the perfect combination.
Address: 80 City Road London, EC1Y 2BJ
Website: www.lilienblum.co.uk
These are just a few places to go for the best oysters in London. Where are you going to try first? Let us know in the comments below, we’d love to hear from you!
