You may have heard that good oysters are only available in months that contain an “r” in their name. This rule of thumb dates back to times when refrigerators didn’t exist and oysters would spoil quickly. Oysters can now be enjoyed year round, but they may be the most tasty when they are in season from September to March. Oysters spawn in the warm summer months when the water is warm and this causes them to become soft, watery, fatty and less flavorful. Shucking oysters in the colder months will result in a more desirable lean texture and briny flavor. Since oysters are a favorite in Charleston, we’ve rounded up a list of ten places where you can enjoy this delicacy.
The Darling Oyster Bar. Located on bustling King Street in downtown Charleston, The Darling Oyster Bar is a restored 115-year-old storefront that strives for “instant classic” status. Start your visit off with a classic Oyster Shooter or dirty martini. Choose from a variety of baked oysters and a selection of raw oysters. The raw bar also consists of other options such as Littleneck Clams, Ceviche and a Seafood Plateau. View the menu.
Leon’s Oyster Shop. This Charleston favorite is located on Upper King Street in an old garage space. Leon’s Oyster Shop offers delicious oysters, fried chicken, salads and delicious cocktails. The Oyster Shed is a hidden oasis tucked away behind Leon’s and is perfect for your next private event. Make a reservation.
The Ordinary. The Ordinary is a Southern seafood hall and oyster bar located in an old bank in downtown Charleston. The menu celebrates the “merroir” of the Coastal Carolinas and the East Cost. They strive to support local and regional fishermen, oystermen, crabbers and producers. Enjoy a variety of fresh bounty from oysters, crab claws and local fish. Learn more.
Delaney Oyster House. Delaney Oyster House is a seafood-focused restaurant and raw bar located in the heart of Charleston’s downtown peninsula. Enjoy fresh, sustainable seafood and oysters in a casual-chic atmosphere. There’s also a lovely outdoor space to enjoy your meal among the gorgeous Charleston weather. Explore the menu.
Pearlz Oyster Bar. Pearlz is a fun and eclectic oyster bar serving the very best in fresh seafood in downtown Charleston and West Ashley. Enjoy raw oysters, char-boiled oysters, fried oysters and other delicious Lowcountry recipes and regional favorites. Stop by to see what the hype is all about. Learn more.
Amen Street Fish & Raw Bar. Declared the best seafood restaurant in downtown Charleston, Amen Street serves fresh, local, sustainable seafood and quintessential Lowcountry cuisine. Their Raw Bar features a comprehensive oyster selection with over twenty varieties from local suppliers. View the menu.
Tavern and Table. Situated on Shem Creek in Mount Pleasant, Tavern and Table offers a fresh selection of raw oysters everyday. You can also enjoy delicious Fire Roasted Oysters and a Seafood Tower while catching glimpses of boats passing by and watching the gorgeous sunset. Their menu also includes many other delicious items such as wood-fired flatbreads and burnt ends mac and cheese. Make a reservation.
NICO. Check out this upbeat oyster bar serving French cuisine carefully prepared in a wood-fired oven with ingredients sourced from the Lowcountry waters and a curated selection of the country’s most coveted raw oysters. Take the private oyster class to learn how to shuck an oyster and learn all about various methods used to farm these delicious morsels. Learn more about Nico.
Post House. Post House is a coastal tavern and inn offering seasonal fare and classic cocktails in the heart of the Old Village in Mount Pleasant. Enjoy delicious food with genuine hospitality and an overnight stay in one of their seven cozy hotel rooms. The menu consists of offerings such as East Coast Oysters, Tilefish, burgers, steak and more. Learn more.
Sullivan’s Fish Camp. One of Sullivan’s Island’s newest restaurants, Sullivan’s Fish Camp offers fresh fish and cold beer. They pride themselves on using the best in local and abundant seafood from daily oysters, baked oysters, Shrimp off of Shem Creek and seafood baskets. Check out this quaint and charming restaurant.
Which restaurant will you explore for the best oysters in Charleston? Comment below!
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