White Wine: Chablis and Sancerre, if you please. Expect some competition, as for the French, getting the best oysters is somewhat of a national sport. Bluff Oysters from the southern most tip of New Zealand's South Island are some of the most prolific. If you want an unforgettable seafood experience, visit the East Coast. They taste slightly different depending on where they came from: salty and nutty in Normandy, iodiney and delicate and invigorating in Brittany. Olron and Marnenet oyster La Fine (the fine) is a type of oyster that is finished in old salt marshes. Theyve drunk malty, creamy stout with their oysters for generations, and it works surprisingly well with the salty hit of the oysters. In Saint-Vaast-la-Houge, for example, France et Fuschias is a local table helmed by young chef Alexandre Raymond; it has won accolades for its excellent oysters and creative cuisine with roots in Norman cuisine. Determined by a complicated calculation that only the French understand; this designation means small- to medium-sized. The coast of France also offers fantastic oyster experiences. You can find two species of oysters here: the Rock oyster, which is also grown on the Pacific Coast of North America, and the Native oyster. Sydney Rock Oysters are small and soft and have a distinctive taste although their flavours can differ depending on which location they have come from. This unique terroir produces oysters that are delightfully fresh and full of aromatic flavours. For eating raw, sizes 3 - 4 are best. Very rich in iodine, these popular oysters are very frequently featured in top shellfish and seafood restaurants around France, but sampling them straight from the source is recommended for ultimate freshness and to witness the artisanal way they are prepared for consumption. If youre looking for a seafood dish that has a French flavor, try French oysters. The latter two offer types known as Fines and Fines de Claire, although they traditionally hail from the Marennes-Olron region. The laws in place are aimed to prevent food waste at large. They have a flatter shape and are known as Belons or Marennes in two of the places where they are made. Aged for an average of three years before being harvested, the oysters cultivated in this unique environment benefit from an ideal ecosystem: the relative calm of Bay waters fed by the wild Atlantic ocean on one end, dunes and pine forests on another. With a shared language of terroir and cru and descriptive terms like crisp, buttery, or fruity, the French appreciation of oysters goes hand in hand with their appreciation of wine. I am cofounder and senior yacht charter broker at Bespoke Yacht Charter. 5. Our unique culinary tours will take you on gourmet adventures leading you to the best, and most expensive, oysters. Quicklist: Types of Oysters Crassostrea gigas Pacific Oysters Crassostrea sikamea Kumamoto Oysters Ostrea edulis Belon Oysters Ostrea lurida/conchapila Olympia Oysters Saccostrea glomerata Sydney Rock Oysters Crassostrea virginica Eastern Oysters Blue Point Oysters Beausoleil Oysters Misty Point Oysters Well Fleet Oysters Level 1 has the highest weight, but level 2 has the most texture. 701 reviews #673 of 14,173 Restaurants in Paris $$ - $$$ French Seafood Healthy. Where to Taste the Best Oysters in Normandy?Normandy is known for its unusual variety of excellent oysters. And while the three regions above are perhaps the most popular ones for sampling superb shellfish, other areas, including the French Cote dAzur and Sicily, harbour some excellent oyster-tasting opportunities as well. Despite the fact that oysters are a small but important part of the French culinary culture, they can be quite pricey. France has some of the best oyster experiences in the world. Easily accessible by superyacht, these oysters alone make Rhode Island a destination to cruise by. Oysters are typically consumed raw, in part due to their high nutritional value. There are both flat (native European) and creased (Pacific rock) varieties cultivated in the lake, some have an almost hazelnut aftertaste, while some are reminiscent of watermelon. A Guide to Oysters. For true oyster lovers, theres really nothing better than tucking into a dozen on the half-shell at a seaside bistro. She is one of the few yachts able to cruise with more than 12 guests onboard and can welcome up to 40 guests for day charters. Although fabulous oysters are still served in London and New York, Paris remains supreme. Utah Beach, one of the famous D-Day landing beaches and the westernmost of the five, is located on the Cotentin Peninsula. At sunset, follow the Rance west to St-Malo, a fortified citadel with ramparts at the mouth of the Rance. Enjoy a platter of freshly caught, raw oysters accompanied with lemon and crusty bread, or try them cooked in Brton cider or even as a filling in a traditional savoury buckwheat crepe (galette). Like Kelly Galways, Loch Ryans are native oysters of the European variety, and they have been grown by the Wallace family since 1701, when King William II gave the family the rights to harvest the beds. The best white wine pairings for oysters are cool-climate, high-acidity wines grown in mineral-rich soils. The process is known as Lostriculture and the growers are known as Ostriculteurs. Many more oysters can be found in France, so you can find them all here. These are refined oysters, grown in marshes (claires) that allow for optimum production and a controlled growing environment. A stamp bearing the image of Henri Matisse was used to acknowledge the value of oysters in France, where they are so highly valued. The region, with roots in Celtic roots that stretch back thousands of years and fishing practices that are just about as ancient, has perfected the art of the huitre through a combination of treasured tradition and present-day innovation. Zest of 2 limes. Oysters, according to popular belief, have a distinct flavor that is influenced by the Mediterranean's salty taste and the River Ebro's sweet freshness. Because of their smoother shells and saltier flavors, the oysters on the East Coast are more popular than those on the West Coast. "Service was excellent and kind and the oysters were just delicious.". They are definitely an ingrained element of French culture. If youre looking for the best oysters in the world, you wont be disappointed by deep-sea oysters from the Cotentin Peninsula. The meat is briny and firm, with only a hint of sweet sweetness and a refreshing acidity, as compared to cucumbers. The town of Marennes is known as the oyster capital of France, and it is here that some of the finest oysters in the world are grown. If youre looking for a more intense oyster flavor, consider California oysters. The town of Isigny-sur Mer and nearby Grandcamp-Maisy are both excellent ports of call for sampling the prized local produce. If youre going to eat raw oysters, allow 6 to 8 oysters per person, and 5 if theyre going to be served warm. Although fabulous oysters are still served in London and New York, Paris remains supreme. Aided by the significant tidal difference, the oysters filter plenty of nutrient-rich seawater every day. There are many oyster varieties to choose from, but the French oyster is the most popular. France is home to four different oyster varieties. These oyster are best served raw with the meat being delicate and buttery with the texture of creaminess and rich mineral taste. Fish and shellfish from West Sweden are some of the best in the world. Find Oyster Bars; . The general rule for oysters is the accompanying beverage must be crisp, and it must be dry. View all posts by Alex Coles. As part of a well-known oyster brand, the third and fourth generations have taken over management. Meanwhile, at Le Vauban in Cherbourg-en-Cotentin, the fresh shellfish platters are excellent, as are the beautifully presented dishes made with fresh local ingredients. This is an occasion where you dont need to fork out hundreds for a bottle of Cristal- and in fact shouldnt, as the complexity of a vintage champagne will only compete and clash with the oysters flavour profile. The oysters are said to have a unique flavour as they combine the saltiness of the Mediterranean with the sweet freshness of the River Ebro. Kumamoto oysters have gained popularity due to their sweet taste as well as their mild brininess. From the direction of Lorient, take the exit for the D16 (Quimperle Centre) off the N165 then follow the D16 and the D116 south towards Moelan-sur-Mer. Oyster shacks are all over Paris, and Parisians have a lot of love for oysters. According to First We Feast, each one of these oysters can measure up to 7.09 inches long and weigh up to 2.2 pounds. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. West Sweden. Here are the ones we think you should visit. Any gourmet tour of southwestern France which may also include caviar and truffle tastings as well as superb wineries around Bordeaux should and can initiate you to the regions top-rate huitres. Malpeque Oysters Especially when you can look out and see the sparkling waters the shellfish were plucked from just hours before. They look identical at first glance, coming in some shade of grey with a similar briny flavour. Kelly Oysters, based in a small inlet in Galway Bay, have been described as the best flavoured in the world. Finally, there's no need to worry about calories whilst eating oysters! The oysters from Cancale France are thought to be some of the best oysters in the world and in 1994 Cancale was classified as a 'Site remarquable du got', a town remarkable for the taste of its oysters! Fans may have their favourites such as the special oysters of Isigny, tasty and pulpy, and those of Saint-Vaast, which are known for their nutty flavour. On your private tour of the region and its noteworthy oyster farms, you can enjoy informal but authentic tastings at local sellers where you can order a few oysters accompanied by a glass of crisp white or try them cooked in apple cider and/or calvados, a local specialty. Dishes such as Cancalaise oysters with apple pure, Japanese vinegar, pink onion flan and langoustine bisque are both delicate and full of gourmet flavour. Oyster shells are usually oval or pear-shaped, but will vary widely in form depending on what they attach to. If you like buttery Chardonnays, these pair well . They are generally whitish-gray in outer shell color, and their inside shell . The classics in Paris are oysters from legendary French oyster cultivation areas such as Cancale, Marennes-Olron, and Arcachon. In Brest, we recommend tasting the areas finest specimens at warmly authentic and lively spots such as LOyster Bar, a recently opened, sprawling space overlooking the Port of Brest and serving enormous platters of shellfish, including the oysters for which the area is renowned. When raw oysters are served, they are typically chilled or heated at room temperature, or they can be served raw in a cold or room temperature dish. The sea views over the port are also superb. Located between Barcelona and Valencia in the pristine wetlands of the Delta de lEbre National Park, these delicious oysters benefit from the salt water of the Mediterranean and the fresh water of the River Ebro. The Hog Island Oyster Company of Tomales Bay, California, is famous for its hog Island Sweetwater oyster. This episode of How We Eat explores the complex history of this beloved bival. 9. Its lovely cucumber notes make Hendricks Gin a standout for oyster accompaniments, but any good gin will do. Oysters cost between 8 and 20 euros per kilogram, but they are not as affordable as sushi. Oysters are thought to have been first domesticated in the Mediterranean region around 700 B.C. They are typically served raw, with a squeeze of lemon juice and a drop of Tabasco sauce. In addition to its historical significance as a place of memory and mourning following the tragedy of World War II, the area is prized for its delicious and distinctive oysters, which are fed by incredibly strong ocean currents that intertwine with the waters of nearby rivers. Sign up to BOAT International email newsletters to get the latest superyacht news, business analysis, exclusive event invitations, and more. He takes the time to appreciate the natural beauty of the region not only because it is rugged on the coastline but also because it is rolling and rural. Catalina, where a dozen oysters will cost you $72. This flat, rounded and wild oyster variety has a fresh, fleshy interior and is appreciated for its unique flavour as well as its rarity. The best oysters are available in September through April, but they are unlikely to be found on menus until October. Marennes-Olron is famous for its La Pousse en Clair variety, which is elevated in low density ponds and shallow waters. You will pass by the region if you are cruising on a superyacht from Barcelona to Valencia. However the area of the Delta de l'Ebre in Catalonia, produces such excellent oysters that actually 80% of these are exported to France. Last but certainly not least, the northern region of Normandy (which borders Brittany) is also home to some outstanding oyster producers and gastronomic restaurants that make creative delicious use of the shellfish. Oysters have been grown in France for centuries and it was the first country in Europe to begin producing them on a large scale. Finally, another destination in Nouvelle Aquitaine that reserves some of France's best oysters is the town of Marennes-Olron, famous for its "La Pousse en Clair" variety that is elevated in low density conditions and in shallow ponds called "claires". If youre looking for a tasty, low-cost dish, try some of the more well-known French dishes like macaroni and cheese and croisins. Barron Point: These large oysters ("hand-sized", as we like to call them) are from the nutrient-rich waters of Little Skookum. Also called portugaises or japonaises, these oysters have a convex shell. Website. Like wine, terroir and variety matters when it comes to the world of oysters. But which are the ones you should visit this year? The crisp, acidic flavour of dry sparkling wines- whether prosecco, cava, or any other iteration, work splendidly with oysters, cutting through the creaminess of the meat and singing with the salinity. Typically, this is the mouth of the Belon or Marenne rivers, where fresh and salt water blend. Pacific oysters and native oysters have different measurement systems in France. At bistros and brasseries around the country, you'll find raw oysters on the menu-and many believe French oysters to be the best in the . Besides, oyster preference is an extremely personal thing, and one that does not always correspond with either fame or price tag. From Strasbourg to Colmar to Paris. Where to Taste the Best Oysters in Aquitaine?Your private oyster-tasting tour in the region may include visits to producers and local gastronomic tables specialised in fresh shellfish paired with excellent wines. Oysters are such an established part of Irelands culinary background that it has its own dedicated oyster season with food festivals all over the country. Years ago, there was an attempt to bring the Belon to Maine, and although the oyster farming failed, they survived in the wild. Touring & Tasting on the PeninsulaWhy not couple a historical tour of Normandys landing beaches with a few gourmet tastings at some of the areas most prestigious oyster houses and seafood restaurants? Seating at the outdoors Marker 13 Buoy Bar is first-come,. Ultimately, the best oysters in Brittany, France are the ones that taste the best to you. On the federal level in Norway, strict sustainability laws have been in place for fishermen since the 80s. In order to enjoy oysters like the French, you must immerse yourself in the ocean. In some places, oysters were easy to find. Designed by Elegant Themes | Powered by WordPress, The Best Places To Use Your Oyster Freedom Pass, Oysters As A Potential Treatment For Cancer, The Florida Keys: Home Of The Worlds Largest Oysters, The Pros And Cons Of Eating Snails And Oysters. Loch Ryan is the only active oyster fishery remaining in Scotland and has been run by the Wallace family since 1701 when the beds were given a royal charter by King William II. Also raised on the Cotentin Peninsula but further to the east, the huitre de Saint-Vaast la Hougue is another noble oyster with a fleshy texture, rich in iodine and featuring a subtle suggestion of hazelnut. Oysters from the East Coast are unquestionably the most popular in the seafood world. Cancale: La-Pied-de-ChevalAnother variety that seafood aficionados prize is from Cancale, and more specifically an oyster referred to as Le Pied de Cheval (the horses foot). Going Deep Into Oyster Country. All of these amino acids, in addition to being a source of nutrients, have been linked to aphrodisiac properties. Although the French eat oysters all year round, in winter you simply can't avoid them because they are everywhere. Enjoy. Our private tours will unveil a host of secretive, exclusive and authentic places to taste the very best; these are just a couple we recommend in the area. Are French oysters the best in the world? The countrys long coastline and diverse climate provide the perfect conditions for oyster farming. The crisp fruitiness of the oyster is derived from the way they are cultivated, with a minimum fattening period of two months spent in the nutrient-rich water of salty marsh beds. France also goes to greater lengths than anywhere else in the world to coddle some of its oysters, which can be finished in special salt ponds where each gets a designated amount of water, or may even have special algae added to turn their gills green (and flavor fruity). In May each year, locals and visitors alike celebrate the Bluff Oyster Festival. Oysters are a common ingredient in most restaurants, from humble bistros to fine dining establishments. The French oysters are meaty and nutty in taste. The country has a long tradition of oyster farming"L'ostriculture," and eating them, of course. With 640 km of stunning coastline it comes as no surprise that Normandy produces some of the world's finest oysters. You wont be disappointed. To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. How to Eat an Oyster Like the French: This is a list of some tips for how to eat oysters like the French. Review. French restaurants often offer a perplexing miscellany of oysters, at prices that differ according to shape, size and provenance. Cancale, Marennes-Olron, and Arcachondre are three legendary oyster cultivation areas in France. If youre looking for the best oysters in France, the Gillardeau oysters are an absolute must. Antisan is also a very popular yacht rental choice for events such as Cannes Lions and MIPIM. France has some amazing Christmas markets. Christmas is almost upon us, and villages and cities across France are preparing for the seasonal Gallic rush on oysters. Due to their unique taste, their longer maturation (up to 6 years), as well as their relative scarcity compared to the Pacific oyster, the native Kelly Galway oysters are prized by connoisseurs and chefs alike. Vive la France! While Normandy is perhaps a bit more well-known for its French cheeses and Calvados liqueur, this region should be a priority when youre interested in tasting superb huitres and related products. Claimed. Types of Oysters. Best for Chesapeake Bay Oysters: Rappahannock Oyster Co. - VA. Best for Themed Bushels: Real Oyster Cult. The type of oyster, the size of the oyster, the freshness of the oyster, and the taste of the oyster all play a role in making this determination. This allows them to grow fatter and more substantial than fines de claire. We particularly recommend tables including Le Patio, a Michelin-starred restaurant on Arcachons main beach thats headed be French chef Thierry Renou and features outstandingly fresh oysters and creative regional cuisine, as well as the recently opened Skiff Club in gorgeous Pyla-sur-Mer, with fantastic views over the dunes, remarkable gastronomy from chef Stphane Carrade, and a superb wine list. The northeastern French region of Brittany is as famous as Aquitaine for its world-prized, incredibly fresh oysters. A large part of the region, whose largest city is Bordeaux, runs alongside the Atlantic coast, a genuine treasure-trove for local oyster-tasting. "Always begin by loosening the oyster. The French produce two types of oysters: oysters on plates and creuses. Ranked #16 of 159 Restaurants in Arcachon. A shigoku oyster is a suspension-grown oyster that is grown in bags suspended in water that moves with currents. There are numerous other good oyster farms in Europe, but the Delta de lEbre, a region between Barcelona and Valencia, is widely regarded as one of the best in the world. Set in oyster parks with only five to the square yard, these oysters, prized by gourmets, grow for at least four months and double in weight during that time. During a private oyster-tasting tour, you may also visit oyster producers and local restaurants. To reach the Saupin standard, oysters must be grown at level 9. But a bowl of clam chowder feels particularly restorative on a. During your next private, high-luxury tour of Brittany, make sure to spend some time tasting and learning about their fantastic oysters. It is the Damariscottas crisp, clean waters that allow the oysters to escape the sand and silt. Here are a few superb pairings for your oyster feast this Christmas: Champagne and Sparkling Wine: Sparkles and Salt are a Match Made in Heaven. It should be mentioned that oysters are produced in an environmentally friendly way. A platter full of oysters, as well as other seafood, is another excellent way to enjoy oysters. From coastal Virginia to New York and New Orleans, a writer delves into the history and lore surrounding the shellfish, with a focus on the role African Americans . Are grown at just 10 to the square yard. Miyagi Oysters Also called the Pacific oyster, this oyster originated from Japan and is raised in America from the Gulf of Mexico to British Columbia. In particular, the French coast is famous for its oysters, particularly in Bouziques, France. If you would like to change your settings or withdraw consent at any time, the link to do so is in our privacy policy accessible from our home page.. If youve eaten them before, or whether youre curious and about to experience them for the first time, theres nothing in the world quite like French oysters. In France, oyster butter is a simple and tasty way to enjoy seafood. Save. Oysters flavor is said to be unique because they combine the salty Mediterranean flavor with the sweet freshness of the River Ebro. At 20 to the square yard, these oysters mature for two months in salty claires, or marshes, where they filter nutrient-rich water that sometimes turns them green. The oyster is a French delicacy that has been popular among kings and peasants for centuries. They are delicious raw or cooked in different traditional Norman dishes, including ones featuring local apple ciders. Bourdain enjoys oysters from the coast in both regions, as well as seafood from the local region. The oysters from the glandardeau saucisson are among Frances best oysters, and they rank third among the top three. In modern times, France was the first country in Europe to begin producing oysters on a large scale. Content presented under the "BOAT Presents" logo is an advertising feature and Boat International Limited has been paid to include this content. Best Oyster Gifts; 2020 Holiday Newsletter; Solstice Spirit; Rebuttal to Oyster Herpes Op-Ed; Tempura oysters are a speciality here. The country has a long history of oyster cultivation, and today there are dozens of different types of French oysters to choose from. He opened his first restaurant in Paris in 1980 before moving it into a more spacious space in 1987 and . The caramelized oysters are served in . There are many other deserving candidates further afield, such as in Australia, New Zealand and America, but as we know, the freshness of an oyster is paramount, so this list will concentrate on the best of European oyster growers.). Oysters are a type of shellfish that is commonly found in France. Our favorite is Emile et une Hutre in Village l'Herbe. It has been a part of French culture for a long time. Around 164,000 years ago, it was common for humans to consume oysters, which were introduced to Europe by hominids. Muirgen oyster - this is a size 1 Shucking or opening oysters When oysters spawn in the spring and summer, their meat becomes soggy and thin. Six of the best luxury hotels with private yachts, Why this private island in Tanzania should top your travel list in 2023, Why St Barths is the spiritual home of regatta racing, Why Norway should be next on your charter hit list, 7 of the best coastal hikes accessible by boat. The oyster has been revered by kings and peasants in France for thousands of years, and it is still loved today as a salty and briny treat from the sea. To get the best sense of oysters' individual flavors, it's best to eat them unadorned before adding garnishes like mignonette or cocktail sauce. I succeeded in finding them in 10 of the 14 countries that I visited.