Best Raw Oysters in New Orleans
If you're looking for an excuse to treat yourself to a dozen raw oysters, then August 5 is your lucky day. It's National Oyster Day and the perfect time to explore some spots around New Orleans to enjoy raw oysters. Whether you're visiting New Orleans for the first time or are a local looking for some hidden gems, this city is the place for you.
New Orleans has some of the best seafood restaurants in the country and is just as well-known for our oysters. Here are a few spots to find raw oysters and whether you like them with cocktail sauce, Tabasco, or a nice mignonette, crackers or no crackers, you'll find something tasty at any of these places.
1. Acme Oyster House
Multiple Locations
acmeoyster.com
With "oyster" in its name, you should rest assured that Acme Oyster House will serve you some of the best tasting oysters you've ever had. This popular seafood spot has locations in Greater New Orleans, Baton Rouge, and even elsewhere in the Gulf South. Order a half dozen or full dozen of their raw oysters with Acme's special cocktail sauce. Perhaps you'd even be willing to try their Oyster Shooter cocktail?
2. Drago's Seafood Restaurant
Multiple Locations
dragosrestaurant.com
One of the Greater New Orleans area's best seafood restaurants, Drago's is the place to be for quality oysters. While they are best known for originating the famous charbroiled oysters, make sure to also try their raw oysters on the half shell or their salty coast raw oysters. Drago's has many different locations, so there's no way you can miss trying their oysters.
3. Felix's
Multiple Locations
felixs.com
With locations in the French Quarter, Lakeview, and even Gulfport, there are plenty of opportunities to go out and try Felix's. The restaurant and oyster bar is beloved for its fresh and delicious seafood dishes. Belly up to their bar and enjoy their Gulf oysters on the half shell. Other oyster dishes on the menu include chargrilled, fried, Rockefeller, and Bienville.
4. Pêche
800 Magazine St., (504) 522-1744
pecherestaurant.com
Prepare your taste buds for a culinary adventure at Peche. Known for their innovative take on seafood, this James Beard Award-winning restaurant serves up some of the freshest oysters in town. Don't miss out on their wide selection of drinks, as well. Their wine menu changes regularly.
5. Sidecar Patio & Oyster Bar
1114 Constance St., (504) 381-5079
sidecarnola.com
Looking for a trendy spot with a laid-back vibe? Look no further than Sidecar. This cozy neighborhood joint offers a fantastic selection of raw oysters, along with creative cocktails that perfectly complement the briny oyster goodness. You can even choose oysters from the Gulf Coast, East Coast, and West Coast.
6. Desire Oyster Bar
300 Bourbon St., (504) 553-2281
sonesta.com/royal-sonesta/la/new-orleans/royal-sonesta-new-orleans/desire-oyster-bar
If you're craving a classic New Orleans experience, head over to Desire Oyster Bar. Situated in the Royal Sonesta Hotel, this spot has been serving up delicious oysters since 1895. Trust us, they know their stuff! Their oysters come with lemons, cocktail sauce, horseradish, and crackers.
7. Pascal's Manale
1838 Napoleon Ave., (504) 895-4877
pascalsmanalerestaurant.com
A New Orleans institution since 1913, Pascal's Manale is a timeless classic. While they are famous for their BBQ shrimp, their raw oysters are equally outstanding. Grab a seat at the bar and savor the flavors of this historic eatery. Save some room for their bread pudding or other tasty desserts.
8. Seaworthy
630 Carondelet St., (504) 930-3071
seaworthynola.com
Kick off your oyster adventure at Seaworthy, a charming oyster bar located in the heart of the French Quarter. With its nautical-themed décor and fresh oyster selection, this place is a true gem. The oysters here are extra fresh and delicious. The restaurant is also located in a beautiful Creole cottage from 1832.
9. Luke
333 St. Charles Ave., (504) 378-2840
lukeneworleans.com
Step into Luke, a stylish brasserie in the Central Business District, and prepare to be impressed. Their raw oyster selection features a variety of Gulf Coast delights, served with all the traditional fixings. Their raw bar has more than oysters, so try their Seafood Plateau for a little taste of everything. Bon appétit!
10. Casamento's
4300 Magazine St., (504) 895-9761
casamentosrestaurant.com
Last but certainly not least, we have Casamento's. This iconic New Orleans institution has been shucking oysters since 1919. Step inside and experience the old-world charm while indulging in some of the best raw oysters the city has to offer. It's a small place on Magazine Street and there may be a wait, but it's definitely worth it.
New Orleans' Top Raw Oyster Spots
So there you have it - our top ten picks for the best raw oysters in New Orleans. These spots are sure to satisfy your cravings for the briny delicacies that make our city so unique. Whether you're eating raw oysters or an oyster po-boy, this is one New Orleans food you've got to have. So grab a friend, loosen your belt, and get ready to slurp your way through the oyster scene in the Big Easy. Enjoy!
