Raising The Bar

WE SALUTE THE SHORE’S RESTAURANTS WHO SHOWCASE OYSTERS IN OUR RAW BAR ROUND-UP

Here on the Shore, oysters are not just considered a run-of-the-mill menu item but rather a delicacy that is coveted by locals and visitors alike. That said, not all oysters are created equal, and there’s something about fresh-shucked, raw-bar oysters that stand apart. Fortunately, there is a plethora of authentic raw bars on Delmarva, and we’ve compiled a list to make sure you can easily find them.

Fins Fish House and Raw Bar, Multiple Locations
With several thriving locations in Berlin, Bethany Beach and Rehoboth Beach, Fins Ale House has clearly figured out how to keep its guests satisfied and returning. Their raw-bar assortment includes a daily revolving mix of oysters, sometimes including Beach Blondes (RI) and Duxberry (MA). And they mix up a unique collection of oyster shooters, including rum, Champagne, and even tequila oyster shooters.

Hooked, Ocean City
Hooked’s motto of “Fresh. Honest. Local.” rings true in every dish it serves, including its locally sourced oysters, which are always the freshest available. Deal alert: Hooked offers “Buck a Shuck $1 local oysters” during happy hour.

Seacrets, Ocean City
Yes, Seacrets is known as the unofficial party capital of Ocean City, but did you know it also boasts an extensive (and impressive) raw bar? Their raw bar contains a succulent local oyster menu, which revolves daily.

Harrison’s Harbor Watch, Ocean City
Planted right in the Ocean City inlet, Harrison’s Harbor watch shucks up many oyster varieties, such as the Double H Premium Black Label Oysters, which are sustainably harvested by Ted Cooney of Madhouse Oyster Co and exclusively available at Harrison’s. What sets these oysters apart is their plump size, which allows for a perfect balance of the ocean salt with the sweetness of the Chesapeake Bay.

Waterman’s Seafood Co., Ocean City
Waterman’s offers both Local Bay and Seaside Salts oysters served on the half shell, as well as revolving daily selections of specialty oysters. For when you’re on the go, they also have a robust seafood market, including Bayside, Seaside and Bluepoint oysters.

Marlin Moon Restaurant, Ocean City
Within the DoubleTree Ocean City hotel resides the elegant Marlin Moon restaurant. Among its many menu items is Mumford Local Salt Shaker oysters, as well as the ever-popular Chesapeake Bay oysters.

Bluecoast Seafood and Raw Bar, Multiple Locations
Part of the SoDel restaurant group, Bluecoast prides itself on its commitment to “serving beautiful, simple food, locally sourced as much as is possible.” This approach is showcased clear as day in its oyster selections, which are sure to please any taste preference. Plus, Thursday nights are oyster nights.

Big Fish Grill, Multiple Locations
Big Fish Grill has continued to expand its locations because people can’t seem to get enough of its big seafood menu. You can’t go wrong with ordering the build-your-own cold, raw seafood towers, with your choice of raw oysters on the half shell, middleneck clams, Maine lobster and Gulf shrimp.

Catch 54, Fenwick Island
A part of the SoDel restaurant group, Catch 54 offers an elegant, simplistic interior design and a thoughtfully prepared Atlantic-seafood menu with freshly shucked oysters. Not to mention, it also offers an award-winning wine menu.

The Crab House, Rehoboth Beach
The Crab House of Rehoboth serves up — you guessed it — fresh crabs, but it also offers a well-crafted raw-bar menu, including freshly shucked Bourbon Creek Oysters from Virginia. Plus, it offers 60 cent fresh, local clams and has 36+ beers on tap.

Matt’s Fish Camp, Lewes Matt’s Fish Camp houses its spacious oyster bar at the center point of its regular bar, perhaps to make sure its daily selection of delicious oysters is on full display. It prides itself on serving beautiful yet simply made dishes that allow you to taste the natural, coastal flavors.

Hooked Up Ale House & Raw Bar, Millville
Hooked Up Ale House & Raw Bar is a sports bar that certainly holds up to the Off the Hook Restaurant Group’s superb seafood reputation. It serves up freshly shucked oysters from a selection that rotates daily. On any given day, you might just find some of the beloved Bluepoints
on the oyster list.

Fish On, Lewes
Fish On, part of the SoDel Concepts group, is one of the area’s premier seafood locations, offering a sophisticated yet casual ambiance paired with a relaxing bar setting. With nightly dinner specials, as well as a raw bar well-stocked with local-oyster offerings, Fish On will certainly have you wanting more.

Evolution Craft Brewing Co. & Public House, Salisbury
Evolution brews many top-rated beers, and the best way to enjoy their beverages is by pairing them with any of its spectacular food items. If you’re struggling to choose just one menu item, keep in mind that the oyster boards, featuring local varietals and roasted selections, are sure not to disappoint.

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