Oysters are a popular appetizer for parties and dinner events. They have a light, briny flavor that pairs well with bubbly drinks. However, eating them in public can be intimidating if you’ve never done it before and aren’t sure of proper etiquette. Whether you’re visiting an oyster bar or attending a fancy wedding, these tips will teach you how to eat oysters like a pro. 

How to Eat Raw Oysters

1. Use the Oyster Fork

This dish is usually served in an open half-shell. While oysters are a finger food best slurped right from the shell, there will often be a small fork offered to you. This is to loosen the meat to make sure it is not attached to the shell. The oyster fork may not be necessary, but you should use it to confirm the meat is loose before you attempt to eat your oysters. 

2. Use Condiments Sparingly

At an oyster bar or restaurant, you will frequently find an array of condiments brought with your oysters. These are to enhance the flavor and can be fun to try. However, you should stick to eating oysters raw or with just a touch of lemon juice for your first time. 

A fresh oyster has complex natural juices and lots of flavors that you shouldn’t mask with cocktail sauce and horseradish. Feel free to experiment with condiments after you get a good sense of what a plain oyster tastes like. 

3. Don’t Forget to Chew

While popular media often portrays people swallowing their oysters whole, this dish is meant to be savored. Chew your oyster a few times to really taste the flavor of the water inside and the natural sweetness of the meat. 

You don’t have to spend more than a few seconds working on it, but don’t let all that flavor slip away without recognition. 

4. Pair With a Great Drink

Because oysters have a distinct salty and briny flavor, they pair especially well with certain types of wine. Muscadet is popularly paired with this dish due to its citrus-like taste and high acidity. The light and bubbly aspect of Champagne makes it another great choice. Drinks that are bright, acidic, and dry tend to make the best pairings. 

Once you’ve mastered how to eat oysters, head to Tin Top Restaurant & Oyster Bar in Bon Secour, AL. This local Baldwin County favorite offers a variety of seafood options, including oysters, lobster, and crab. They also feature salads, pasta, steaks, and burgers for everyone in the family. Visit their website to view their menu or call (251) 949-5086 to make a reservation.