Observer: The Best Oyster Bars in Los Angeles, From Casual Counters to Coastal Chic

Is there anything more elegant than freshly-shucked oysters over ice? Whether you prefer Blue Points from the East Coast or Kumamotos from the Pacific Northwest, these briny bivalves are a world-class delicacy. In addition to being one of the most sought-after seafood options, oysters, which are known for their salty taste and unique texture, are also one of the most sustainable, often praised for their filtering effects on oceans and waterways. Given L.A.’s coastal proximity and breezy ocean air, there’s no better place to enjoy a dozen oysters alongside a crisp glass of sauvignon blanc or bubbly Champagne.

From Santa Monica to Silver Lake, Los Angeles is home to several oyster bars where SoCal locals and visitors gather for premium shellfish and nautical vibes to match. When it comes to toppings, a simple squeeze of lemon will do, though most establishments serve with a side of cocktail sauce, mignonette and fresh horseradish. Not ready to go raw? Oysters Rockefeller is a cooked alternative that comes grilled and drenched in a rich butter and garlic sauce. No matter what your preference is, we’ve got you covered on all of the best oyster bars in L.A.

Broad Street Oyster Company

More oyster stand than oyster bar, Broad Street Oyster Co. has mastered the art of casual yet high-quality seafood. Though you’ll find locations in Grand Central Market and the weekly Smorgasburg, as well as in Santa Barbara, the Malibu location is best for a casual lunch of oysters, lobster rolls and canned wine before hitting the beach. After ordering at the counter, head to the covered patio and kick back with an IPA or canned rosé while you wait for your buzzer to ring. The chef’s selection of oysters is served with a classic shallot mignonette, but you can also opt for the southern-style fried oysters with a spicy Fresno aioli. Broad Street Oyster Co. is also known for serving one of the best lobster rolls in Los Angeles, which can be enhanced with splurge-worthy toppings like caviar and uni, as well as seafood classics like Baja fish tacos and calamari.

The Oyster Gourmet

The Oyster Gourmet is one of the best places to start your foodie tour at Downtown L.A.’s Grand Central Market. Located in a nautical kiosk toward the front of the market, this long-standing vendor by Christophe Happillon has been around since 2014 and serves a variety of shellfish along with wine and beer. The majority of the seafood, including the oysters, is locally sourced along the West Coast from sustainably driven purveyors and oyster farms. Enjoy a crisp glass of sauvignon blanc with half a dozen bivalves and some fresh uni for good measure.

Read more in the Observer.