To this day, the city offers many opportunities to enjoy oysters, in restaurants or from side walk vendors. Denmark's second oyster is the Pacific oyster ( crassostrea gigas ), a foreign species that was accidentally introduced to the . Are French oysters the best in the world? Although France is normally the first place that springs to mind for the worlds best oysters, the Delta de lEbre, situated between Barcelona and Valencia, it a top contender. Huitrerie Regis. 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! Our unique culinary tours will take you on gourmet adventures leading you to the best, and most expensive, oysters. Furthermore, because they are grown without the use of pesticides or herbicide, they are one of the most environmentally friendly crops available. Find Oyster Bars; . Blog all about Luxury Travel on the French Riviera and Cte d'Azur. He opened his first restaurant in Paris in 1980 before moving it into a more spacious space in 1987 and . They are generally whitish-gray in outer shell color, and their inside shell . 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. Muirgen oyster - this is a size 1 Shucking or opening oysters Oyster shells are usually oval or pear-shaped, but will vary widely in form depending on what they attach to. Each year Cancale produces 5000 tons of oysters farmed in its 'parks' in the bay and 1000 tons fished from the bay generally. The wild huitres found in villages such as Plougastel-Dauolas are more similar to scallop meat than any other type of fish. Generally, there is a small fork provided for this purpose, so that it is not attached to the shell. Oysters are still popular in France, despite the fact that they have been replaced by other foods. Utah Beach is said to produce sweet oysters. Because most oysters raised in aquaculture do not spawn, they have a good season. As coastal Normandy is home to some of the finest oyster beds in France, the region is brimming with raw bars, seafood restaurants and oyster farms that serve these local delicacies in style! +33 5 56 83 78 81. Christmas is almost upon us, and villages and cities across France are preparing for the seasonal Gallic rush on oysters. A platter full of oysters, as well as other seafood, is another excellent way to enjoy oysters. The town of Isigny-sur Mer and nearby Grandcamp-Maisy are both excellent ports of call for sampling the prized local produce. The harbour views are are charming and memorable, too. Bourdain enjoys oysters from the coast in both regions, as well as seafood from the local region. 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. Catalina, where a dozen oysters will cost you $72. Huitres et Saumons de Passy. The quality of oysters in Brittany, like those in Aquitaine, is world-renowned. These oyster are best served raw with the meat being delicate and buttery with the texture of creaminess and rich mineral taste. Oysters from the East Coast are unquestionably the most popular in the seafood world. Because of their unique flavor and texture, this type of oyster will satisfy even the most ardent oyster lover. Fine de Claire, Spciale de Claire, Belon, Gillardeauyou name it! Antisan is also a very popular yacht rental choice for events such as Cannes Lions and MIPIM. They are difficult to grow and are produced in small quantities, and so they are more expensive. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. By . He enjoys the simple pleasures of a seafood dinner in a fishing village such as Plouhinec and the more upscale surroundings of the Cte Blanche Resort in Saint-Malo, both of which are close to his home. This unique terroir produces oysters that are delightfully fresh and full of aromatic flavours. On the federal level in Norway, strict sustainability laws have been in place for fishermen since the 80s. The most important part of the Texas oyster harvest is in Galveston Bay. Enjoying a suite of international oysters with friends in Hong Kong. As part of a well-known oyster brand, the third and fourth generations have taken over management. Gillardeau Marenne-Oleron Belon (France) Belon River, Brittany And if the world is your oyster then Galway, on Irelands west coast, is your home. There are many reasons why French oysters are the best. "Best oysters in the world" Review of Huitrerie Regis 393 photos Huitrerie Regis 3 rue de Montfaucon, 75006 Paris, France (6th Arr. Sign up to BOAT International email newsletters to get the latest superyacht news, business analysis, exclusive event invitations, and more. Generally raised in the plankton-rich Bay of Veys, these are oysters likely to please most palates for their soft, delicate flavours and pleasingly firm texture. Virtually anywhere along the French coastline (including the Mediterranean and of course Brittany) delicious French oysters are served, and at a fraction of the cost of those in Paris. Oyster farming is a thriving part of the culture and economy of the tang de Thau (the Thau Lagoon between Ste and Bouzigues) in the Languedoc Roussillon and the picturesque town of Bouzigues produces the most sought-after oysters in Europe. Finally, there's no need to worry about calories whilst eating oysters! Open now : 12:00 PM - 2:30 PM6:30 PM - 10:30 PM. Learn about oyster farming practices in each of the 7 oyster farming sites in France (Normandy, North Brittany and South Brittany, Vende, Charente-Maritime, Arcachon, Mediterranean), along with the various methods employed. 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. France is known for producing oysters in three forms: plates, creuses, and fines. Shells. We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. There are numerous oysters to choose from in Alabama, but the Cancale oyster is by far the best. Today, France produces between 130,000 to 145,000 metric tons of Pacific oysters . A letter from Julius Ceaser reportedly claims that Loch Ryan oysters are the best in the world. France controls more than 2,000 miles of coastline, featuring some of the finest oyster beds in the world. The sea views over the port are also superb. The best white wine pairings for oysters are cool-climate, high-acidity wines grown in mineral-rich soils. You can even taste them onsite in the areas many informal yet wonderfully authentic cabanes huitres (oyster-tasting cabins), where you might enjoy breathtaking views over the Arcachon Bay, the astrounding Dune Pilat and the Cap Ferret. Allow Necessary Cookies & Continue Some people enjoy them simply because they are without any extras, while others enjoy them with a sprinkle of butter and bread. The oysters are famous for their meaty flesh which supplies an endless ocean of flavours. No matter how you enjoy them, French oysters are a truly delicious treat. The countrys long coastline and diverse climate provide the perfect conditions for oyster farming. 1 medium jalapeo, minced (about 1 tbsp.) For one, they are grown in some of the cleanest and most pristine waters in the world. These oysters are lauded as being unusually sweet and as having a pleasing, complex texture. There are many factors to consider when determining the best oysters in Brittany, France. Continue on the D116 south to the turn off for the Port de Belon to visit the port side of the river or turn onto the D24 toward Riec-sur-Belon to . Real Estate The finest villas and apartments on the Cte dAzur and where to find them. Interested in oyster tasting in France? "Always begin by loosening the oyster. The production is small, really, considering that Brittany produces 35,000 tonnes of France's annual 150,000 tonnes of oysters. Although fabulous oysters are still served in London and New York, Paris remains supreme. However, no country in the world can offer a more complete oyster experience than France. Best for On-Demand Harvesting: Fishers Island Oyster Farm - NY. If so, get in touch with now. In 2017, the average price of fresh oysters was between 7.1 and 7.4 euros. 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. Oysters cost between 8 and 20 euros per kilogram, but they are not as affordable as sushi. Where to Taste the Best Oysters in Brittany? Even though there aren't many of these oysters out . 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). The Kelly Galway is a very large oyster grown in wild oyster fisheries along Irelands West Coast, before being moved to oyster beds to fatten and develop their flavour, giving them the flavour of the Atlantic and the fresh waters of the Clarinbridge and Kilcolgan rivers. When I wasn't working or sleeping, I was hunting for oysters. When oysters spawn in the spring and summer, their meat becomes soggy and thin. They are flavourful and juicy, with a nutty flavor that is difficult to resist in many cases. The plants are difficult to grow and require a small amount of production, so they are more expensive to produce. The oyster can be served plain, with a splash of lemon juice, vinegar, or a shallots sauce, or with vinegar and a dash of lemon juice. Brest: Distinctive wild harbour oystersThe northwestern harbour city of Brest is lauded for its superb wild oysters, which naturally flourish in the nutrient-rich waters around the area. French restaurants often offer a perplexing miscellany of oysters, at prices that differ according to shape, size and provenance. Their Rappahannocks are part of a long legacy of oyster growing (started in 1899) and carry with them a mild minerality and lingering sweetness. France produces two types of oysters: the flat oyster (in French known as the hutre plate), a variety native to the region, and the rounded oyster (in French, hutre creuse), which is imported from Japan.Though the flat oyster, also known as Belon, originates here, most of the oysters harvested in Cancale are the rounded style, with the flat-shelled Belon making up approximately 2% of . Beer: Guinness is Good forEating Oysters. Manage Settings Fresh Shipped; Oysters. Sharpen your elbows, grab your shucker, and join the fray! 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. 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. Nouvelle AquitaineHeading to Nouvelle Aquitaine and the relaxed seaside town of Bourcfranc le Chapus, you can taste some of Frances most-prized and expensive oysters at Maison Gillardeau, established during the nineteenth century and lauded by gourmets as unusually flavourful, fresh, and aromatic. The oyster business is taken very seriously by growers, marine biologists, and by French connoisseurs, which is basically everyone in France! Other countries around the world have oysters that are frequently briny and salty. France has some of the best oyster experiences in the world. Oyster production accounts for 90% of the total oyster harvest in Europe, with French oysters accounting for the remaining 10%. 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. Many regional dishes include shellfish, which is aromatic and delicious in traditional dishes as well as in excellent wines. Whether youre a connoisseur or are keen to experience a new culinary delight weve put together this ultimate guide for you to get the most out of your experience enjoying French oysters. In France, the oyster has been beloved by kings and peasants for thousands of years and today, the French continue to love these salty and briny treats from the sea. With a salt water content higher than the sea and no tides to contend with, the oysters grow rapidly and are some of the fleshiest in France. It is simple, but delicious, to serve as a showcase for each of the ingredients. The plate is the oyster lovers oyster. Keep in mind that the tides here raise and lower the water by about 15 meters. The Saint-Vaast oyster is distinguished by its nutty flavor, so try it for a different taste. Although some of these areas are far more famous than others, they all produce excellent oysters. And justifiably so. Website. Oysters actually spend a scientifically determined number of days being dipped in and out of the water. 261 Reviews. Vive la France! Visit the picturesque seaside city of Cancale, exposed to the Atlantic Ocean but featuring a tranquil harbour where the oysters are protected from the harsh currents, and experience the culinary traditions that the city is quietly famous for. They are large, juicy and have an intense flavour, earning them a place among the finest oysters in the world. 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. French Riviera Luxury is a blog about all things luxury related on the French Riviera and Cte dAzur, including but by no means limited to: Yachting Luxury yacht charters and boat rentals, popular yachting destinations, new yacht launches etc. If youre going to eat raw oysters, allow 6 to 8 oysters per person, and 5 if theyre going to be served warm. 6. The resulting oysters are silky in texture, with an addictive sweet-salty flavour. Boat International Media Ltd 2008 - 2022. Their boutique in Bourcfranc makes an excellent port of call to procure the houses exquisite oysters for a festive and elegant meal, perhaps aboard a privately chartered boat or yacht. Oysters are typically consumed raw, in part due to their high nutritional value. "One of the best oyster bars in Paris!". Comptoir Saouf, where a dozen oysters will set you back15.30. Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email. Oysters are a type of shellfish that is commonly found in France. If youre looking for a tasty, low-cost dish, try some of the more well-known French dishes like macaroni and cheese and croisins. Some kind of dry white wine or Champagne is generally suggested as an accompaniment. Aquitaine is a thriving oyster-producing region, thanks to the presence of small oyster farms and restaurants specializing in the delicacy. They are definitely an ingrained element of French culture. When youre ready to eat the oysters, use a short, sharp knife with a short, sharp blade. Kelly Oysters, based in a small inlet in Galway Bay, have been described as the best flavoured in the world. Olron and Marnenet oyster La Fine (the fine) is a type of oyster that is finished in old salt marshes. Although less intensely flavoured than the plate, the creuse is equally seductive. The legendary French oyster cultivation areas are Cancale, Marennes-Olron, and Arcachon. Towns such as Plougastel-Dauolas, also nestled on the harbour, are also noted for their wild huitres, which have a particular texture closer to a scallop and are rich in iodine. France produces over 50% of the worlds oysters, and the majority of these come from the countrys southwest coast. So now that you know which oysters you want, and which drink to pair them with, its time to join the oyster rush in time for Christmas. Chablis is one of the finest choices, as its chardonnay grapes are grown in soil that was once the ocean floor, lending it a flinty, racy, palate cleansing acidity which complements the oysters of that region supremely. They have a flatter shape and are known as Belons or Marennes in two of the places where they are made. The Oysters of Isigny-sur-MerThe Norman oysters that are perhaps the biggest household name are those cultivated in Isigny-sur-Mer and surrounding towns, in the Calvados department famous for the liqueur of the same name. Julius Caesar claimed that Scotlands Loch Ryan oysters were the best in the world, or so the story goes. 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? France (7) Gulf Coast (15) Hood Canal (20) Ireland (3) Long Island Sound (16) Maine/NH (20) . As the only oyster fishery still operating in Scotland, and a very slow maturation time of up to 8 years, the Loch Ryan oysters are a true delicacy to savour over Christmas and New Year. Since Roman times, they have been farmed in the Lagune de Thau, in the Mediterranean, and in the Bay of Arcachon. You can very rarely go wrong with a Pouilly Fuisse when eating oysters, or a pale, crisp Provencal rose could also be considered. (N.B. For those of you celebrating the festive season in Europe, here are a selection of the finest oysters available in Europe this Christmas, as well as what to drink with them. Although Normandy is more well-known for its French cheeses and Calvados liqueur than for huitres and other related products, this region should be an important factor when selecting huitres. Some of the more popular places include Le Bouchon du Palais in Paris, LEcailler du Bistrot in Lyon, and La Cote des Monts in Bordeaux. They are raised in shallow water from 4 to 6 months, producing only two to five oysters per square meter of water, producing a nearly crunchy oyster shell. They are typically served raw, with a squeeze of lemon juice and a drop of Tabasco sauce. Although fabulous oysters are still served in London and New York, Paris remains supreme. Despite the fact that oysters are a small but important part of the French culinary culture, they can be quite pricey. But a bowl of clam chowder feels particularly restorative on a. Then, bring the oyster shell to the . Let your tastebuds be your guide! The Hog Island Oyster Company of Tomales Bay, California, is famous for its hog Island Sweetwater oyster. 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.). The oyster is Frances national dish because it was the countrys invention. If you are enjoying a private vacation or luxury yacht charter in Spain then your superyacht chef should be able to obtain fresh oysters from the Delta de lEbre. These are refined oysters, grown in marshes (claires) that allow for optimum production and a controlled growing environment. La Subhasta Restaurant, where a dozen will cost you35, Picture courtesy of Iakov Filimonov/Shutterstock.com. Limfjord oysters, dubbed "the best oysters in the world," are quite rare. That, to a layman is what all oysters look and taste like but to a true connoisseur, every variety of oyster has its own characteristics. They explain every aspect of oyster history and nurturing. the oyster in France. 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. Ireland's oyster industry is an international powerhouse. 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. With over 2,000 miles of coastline, France is the largest producer of oysters in Europe. Fishermen cannot make a profit on any fish caught outside of their quotas. 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. 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. The general rule for oysters is the accompanying beverage must be crisp, and it must be dry. 701 reviews #673 of 14,173 Restaurants in Paris $$ - $$$ French Seafood Healthy. Well create an entirely personalised gourmet adventure in France that includes exquisite fresh oyster tastings with some of the countrys finest producers, perhaps paired with exclusive wine tours. Description: Temporary closure of the restaurant for annual leave from Monday November 15 to Thursday December 9. French oyster gillardeau is a type of oyster that is grown in the Gillardeau oyster beds off the Arcachon Bay in southwestern France. Tut, tut.). Paimpol: La creuse fineHeading northeast to the rugged Cote dArmor area, discover the remarkable local oysters of Paimpol which are raised in the middle of the sea and celebrated for their rich flavors and satisfying, fleshy texture. Best Oyster Gifts; 2020 Holiday Newsletter; Solstice Spirit; Rebuttal to Oyster Herpes Op-Ed; Tauck moved up two places in T+L's 2021 rankings to grab the No. Some people prefer a saltier oyster, while others prefer a sweeter oyster. The classics in Paris are oysters from legendary French oyster cultivation areas such as Cancale, Marennes-Olron, and Arcachon. The best oysters are available in September through April, but they are unlikely to be found on menus until October. Seating at the outdoors Marker 13 Buoy Bar is first-come,. Find your part of the world and locate oysters with ocean maps or terrain. Many consider theirs to be the Rolls Royce of French huitres. 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. "Great service, great food!". Your private tour might include a visit to the charming town, stopping to discover the secrets of its finest local producers and tasting rooms. Cancale alone produces 60,000 tons of molluscs, accounting for roughly one-third of the nations total. However, the reigning champion must always be true Champagne from the Champagne region, partly because it is grown in soil which is rich in marine sediments and chalky notes, creating a magnificent mineral, almost saline partnership with the salty oysters. 3 Viking Cruises also fared well this year, with readers . It is thought some of them even return to Catalonia but under a Gallic guise. Where to Taste the Best Oysters in Normandy?Normandy is known for its unusual variety of excellent oysters. The name may not mean much to some, but to oyster fans, Tarbouriech oysters are among the very best in the world. France is home to some of the best oysters in the world. 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. There are over 450 parks and gardens to visit in Paris. But the French are also far from alone in their love and pride of their home grown oysters, with many other countries across the world vying for the title of the worlds best oyster. The best oyster on the planet, the Belon is harvested from all over France and finished in specially designed ponds (claires) in the brackish waters of the Belon River, where the French call garaging. The plates are flatter in shape and are also known as Belons or Marennes, two of the locales where they are produced. Pacific oysters and native oysters have different measurement systems in France. 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. Although the French eat oysters all year round, in winter you simply can't avoid them because they are everywhere. The French eat oysters as they do in How To Eat Oysters Like the French. Use the small fork. It's a French word that you may have heard used with wine. Meaty, nutty, firm and savoury, the oysters are grown and carefully tended for four years, and due to their cultivation process are less briny than many other varieties. Oyster Rockefeller, a type of oyster that is popular in the United States, is also a native of France. Australia is famed for its Sydney Rock oysters which are found in a variety of locations around the country including - Shark Bay, the Wingan Inlet and the east coast of New South Wales. Oyster & Chop, where a dozen bluff oysters costs $54, Picture courtesy of Shutterstock.com / Farris Noorzali. White Wine: Chablis and Sancerre, if you please. 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. From North to South there are seven distinct growing regions: Normandy, North-Brittany, South-Brittany, West-Central, Marennes-Olron, Arcachon, and the Mediterranean. Here are the ones we think you should visit. The caramelized oysters are served in . Oysters can be eaten raw or, if desired, eaten in warm temperatures, but true oyster lovers prefer to eat them raw. Are grown at just 10 to the square yard. Save. 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. Oysters are among the best in France, as they are found in towns along the countrys coast. Grown by Caminada Bay Oysters, this variety is giant, meaty, and fit for frying. The oyster industry is rich in history, as can be seen by dipping your toe into the briny waters. French oysters are known as the best oysters in the world and are served in a variety of restaurants across the country. In particular, the French coast is famous for its oysters, particularly in Bouziques, France. A bottle of Domaine Servin Chablis Premiere Cuvee les Pargues could be just the drop. Ranked #16 of 159 Restaurants in Arcachon. The country has a long tradition of oyster farming"L'ostriculture," and eating them, of course. In the 19th century, there were three oyster capitals in the world: Paris, London and New York. Meaty, nutty, firm and savoury, the oysters are grown and carefully tended for four years, and due to their cultivation process are less briny than many other varieties. In some places, oysters were easy to find. These French oysters are raised in deep waters, then transferred to less salty shallow beds called claires to mature. It is best to tip the oyster shell into your mouth and drink the seawater with it. There is no doubt about it: oysters are extremely popular in France. Why not hire a private boat and embark on a tour of the areas fascinating oyster farms, implanted around the bay and visible at low tide? Best Overall West Coast Oysters: Hog Island Oyster - CA. Traditional champagne pairings include oysters and a Ruinart Blanc de Blancs. At sunset, follow the Rance west to St-Malo, a fortified citadel with ramparts at the mouth of the Rance. 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". The average price per kilogram for fresh oysters in July 2021 was 7.2 euros. Many people believe French oysters are the best in the world, and raw oysters are available at bistros and brasseries across the country. In modern times, France was the first country in Europe to begin producing oysters on a large scale. by Margaret | Jan 30, 2023 | Popular Seafood Dishes. 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 . They are delicious raw or cooked in different traditional Norman dishes, including ones featuring local apple ciders. There are around 350 oyster farmers in the Arcachon Bassin and they produce 8000 - 10,000 tonnes of Pacific cupped oysters per year. How to Eat an Oyster Like the French: This is a list of some tips for how to eat oysters like the French. If you like buttery Chardonnays, these pair well . 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. Many countries produce lots of wonderful oysters. Favorite varieties include Capital and Shigoku oysters from Washington, Kusshi oysters from British Columbia, and the coveted Hog Island Sweetwaters from California. 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.