Where can you find the best oysters in Fort Lauderdale? This concise guide leads you directly to top-notch spots where the best oysters Fort Lauderdale truly shine. We’ll provide you with the straightforward scoop on where to enjoy fresh, succulent oysters, whether you’re in the mood for a relaxed raw bar outing or an exquisite waterfront dining experience. As an oyster lover, I’ve sampled quite a few places in the area. This is my list of where to get oysters in Fort Lauderdale based on 20+ years of living in the area.
Guide to Eating Oysters in Fort Lauderdale
- Fort Lauderdale is a hotspot for oyster lovers, with a variety of oyster bars like Southport Raw Bar and Shuck Boys offering fresh and diverse selections.
- Waterfront dining spots like Coconuts Fort Lauderdale and Rivertail pair the allure of fresh oysters with stunning sunset views and a relaxed, sophisticated ambiance.
- From happy hour deals to upscale experiences and Sunday brunch spreads, there’s an oyster-centric event or venue for every occasion and taste preference in Fort Lauderdale.
Fort Lauderdale’s Finest Oyster Bars
In a city renowned for its seafood, Fort Lauderdale’s oyster bars stand out for their quality and variety. First on the list is a local favorite: Southport Raw Bar. This beloved spot has been serving up fresh oysters since 1979, making it a cherished part of the city’s dining scene. The friendly atmosphere and fresh oysters make it a must-visit for any seafood lover.
Another standout is Shuck Boys Oyster Bar, catering to the tastes of oyster enthusiasts with a delicious selection that rotates regularly. Don’t miss G & B Oyster Bar, either, which shares its location with Coconuts and adds to the richness of Fort Lauderdale’s oyster bar scene with its variety of fresh oysters.
The Oyster Oasis at Las Olas
Stepping into Wild Sea Las Olas, located on Las Olas Blvd, is like entering an oyster oasis. This upscale dining venue offers a vast selection of dishes, including:
- Fresh salads
- A raw bar full of various seafood specialties
- Pizzas
- Burgers
- Crab cakes
- Steaks (although not on my list of the top local steaks)
When looking for nice restaurants, you can expect all dishes to be expertly prepared to satisfy your taste buds with the latest delicious offerings, ensuring great service and refreshing cocktail creations.
The dining experience at Wild Sea is nothing short of memorable. The elegant setting and high-quality dishes have quickly made it a favorite among visitors. For an even more exclusive dining experience, guests can opt for the Wild Sea Wine Room, a private dining option that adds an extra touch of sophistication to your meal with its carefully curated wine menu and the captivating wine menu view.
Sunset Shells by the Waterfront
The experience of savoring oysters while the sun sets, splashing the sky with hues of pink and orange, is truly enchanting. When it comes to dining by the water, our oyster spots are hard to match. Here, you can enjoy a breathtaking sunset view over the water while savoring your oysters.
The ambiance is both relaxed and sophisticated, making it perfect for casual outings and special occasions alike. As for the oysters themselves, they are shucked to order for peak freshness and curated by expert chefs to ensure a high-quality dining experience. To elevate the experience, guests can choose from a range of signature cocktails, each designed to pair perfectly with the oysters.
The Raw Bar Revolution
Fort Lauderdale’s raw bars are not just about oysters; they’re a culinary revolution. Offering more than traditional raw bar selections, these establishments are embracing innovation with upscale and unique offerings such as:
- Lobster ceviche
- Tuna tartare
- Seafood towers
- Sushi rolls with a twist
These innovative raw bars cater to a wide range of tastes and preferences with a mix of East and West Coast oysters. Whether you prefer the robust, briny flavor of an East Coast oyster or the sweeter, more delicate flavor of a West Coast variety, you’ll find it here.
Happy Hour Hotspots for Oyster Lovers
After a long day, nothing beats unwinding with a plate of fresh oysters and a cool, refreshing drink. Fort Lauderdale is teeming with happy hour hotspots, perfect for oyster aficionados to satisfy their cravings. From annual outdoor events like the Oyster Fest at Coconuts to waterfront dining experiences along the New River at Rivertail, there’s a happy hour to suit every taste.
A notable mention goes to Yot Bar & Kitchen. Located within the Lauderdale Marine Center, this venue features a variety of oyster options and a nautical ambiance. Their all-day oyster promotion of $3 apiece is a deal that’s hard to beat.
Thursday Thrills: Oysters and Drinks
Thursday evenings in Fort Lauderdale have a special charm, thanks to the exciting happy hour specials at local oyster bars. One such place is Monty’s Raw Bar in Miami. Their throwback Thursday happy hour is a real treat, with 69-cent raw bar items, including oysters, clams, and shrimp, available from 4 to 7 p.m. on the first Thursday of every month.
This is a great opportunity to dig into a platter of fresh oysters without breaking the bank. So, why not gather your friends and make a date of it? After all, good company, delicious food, and fantastic drinks are what happy hour is all about.
Saturday Shuck Fest
The Oyster Fest at Coconuts is a seafood lover’s dream come true. This event features unlimited access to eight food stations and bottomless Funky Buddha’s Pearl Diver Oyster Saison, making it a must-visit for any oyster aficionado.
But the fun doesn’t stop at the food. The festival also includes slurping contests and live music, making it a full day of oyster-centric entertainment. So mark your calendars and get ready to shuck and slurp at 429 Seabreeze Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316.
Grilled Oyster Gatherings
Raw oysters have their unique appeal, but the allure of grilled oysters is irresistible. Their smoky flavor, paired with various toppings, can create a truly unforgettable dining experience. And in Fort Lauderdale, there are plenty of places to enjoy these grilled delicacies, such as:
- The Rusty Hook Tavern
- Coconuts
- Blue Moon Fish Co.
- Shooters Waterfront
- Boatyard
- Wild Sea Oyster Bar & Grille
Shuck Boys Oyster Bar, for example, offers a rotating selection of both raw and grilled oysters, each with its unique flavor profile. Their oysters come with distinctive flavors, including those with Calabrian chili, basil pesto, and truffle with a hint of lemon zest, offering a taste adventure for your palate.
Another place to try is Shuck n Dive, known for their variety of grilled oyster dishes such as the beneville and pesto oysters.
A Taste of Maine: Lobster and Oyster Combos
If you’re a fan of both oysters and lobsters, then Mystic Lobster Roll Co is a place you simply can’t miss. This restaurant serves a variety of lobster roll specialties, including:
- Classic lobster roll
- Lobster BLT roll
- Lobster mac and cheese roll
- Lobster avocado roll
They ensure a true taste of Maine with their use of fresh, wild-caught lobster on a toasted, buttered bun.
You can supersize your lobster roll with 50% more lobster meat or indulge in the ‘Surf & Turf’ roll that combines lobster with filet mignon for a luxurious seafood and meat experience. And with combo options that include sides and drinks, you’ll get to enjoy a full seafood platter experience akin to one that would feature oysters.
Dine with a View: Waterfront Oyster Dining
Waterfront dining holds an irresistible charm. The gentle lapping of the waves, the soft glow of the setting sun, and the fresh, salty air – it all adds up to a dining experience like no other. And when it comes to waterfront oyster dining, Coconuts Fort Lauderdale and Rivertail are two places you simply can’t miss.
At Coconuts Fort Lauderdale, you can enjoy:
- A fresh raw bar
- Picturesque waterfront views
- Vibrant sunset views
- An attractive atmosphere
It’s a perfect place to unwind with a plate of fresh oysters.
Rivertail, on the other hand, offers a selection of East and West Coast oysters, complemented by traditional and specialty sauces, all enjoyed along the waterfront.
Upscale Oyster Experiences
At times, a little indulgence, a taste of luxury, is what we all need. And what better way to indulge than with an upscale oyster experience? Venues like Yot Bar & Kitchen and Wild Sea Oyster Bar & Grille offer just that. Located within the Lauderdale Marine Center, Yot Bar & Kitchen provides a luxurious marina setting perfect for a lavish oyster outing.
Wild Sea Oyster Bar & Grille, on the other hand, is a notable venue chosen for special occasions, with oysters being a prominent feature on the menu. Whether it’s a light lunch, a cocktail party, or a special celebration, these upscale venues will ensure a memorable dining experience.
The Ultimate Sunday Brunch Oyster Spread
Sunday brunch is a cherished tradition for many, and in Fort Lauderdale, you can take it to the next level with an oyster spread. At Rivertail, the brunch menu features a selection of fresh oysters, elevating the traditional Sunday brunch experience.
The Rivertail Tower is a highlight of their Sunday brunch menu, offering a dozen fresh oysters paired with a dozen mussels. With an array of other seafood delicacies on offer, you can enjoy a variety-packed brunch spread that’s sure to satisfy any seafood lover.
On that note, check out my Fort Lauderdale brunch recommendations and see where else you can enjoy Saturday or Sunday Brunch.
Summary
From waterfront dining to upscale oyster experiences, from raw to grilled, from happy hours to Sunday brunches, Fort Lauderdale’s oyster scene is as diverse as it is delicious. Each oyster bar in the city offers something unique, catering to a wide range of tastes and preferences. Whether you’re a seasoned oyster lover or a curious newbie, you’re sure to find an oyster experience that tickles your fancy.
So why not embark on a culinary adventure and explore the best oysters Fort Lauderdale has to offer? With its rich oyster scene and vibrant dining culture, this sunny city is waiting to delight your taste buds. Get ready to shuck, slurp, and savor the ocean’s bounty in Fort Lauderdale!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best month to eat oysters in Florida?
The best month to eat oysters in Florida is from November to April when they are in season and taste the best. Many people shy away from oysters in May to avoid the common misconception about eating oysters in months without an “R”.
Where do the best oysters come from in Florida?
The best oysters in Florida come from Apalachicola Bay along the Florida panhandle, particularly from Franklin, Levy, and Wakulla counties. These areas provide the perfect conditions for delicious and traditional oyster harvesting.
What place is famous for oysters?
The Delta de l’Ebre in Catalonia and Caminada Bay in Louisiana are famous for their oysters, known for their high quality and delicious taste.
Are oysters in season now?
Yes, oysters are in season now, and the best time to eat them is during the colder months. So, go ahead and enjoy some delicious oysters!
Which oyster bars in Fort Lauderdale are highly recommended?
You should check out Southport Raw Bar, Shuck Boys Oyster Bar, G & B Oyster Bar, and Wild Sea Las Olas for some delicious oysters in Fort Lauderdale. Enjoy!
About Tim Schmidt
Tim Schmidt is a 20+ year Entrepreneur and Digital Marketer. A Fort Lauderdale-based "Digital Nomad," he enjoys traveling as much as possible with family and friends. AllWorld is his escape to document all of his adventures, including being a hardcore "foodie." He has property in Costa Rica and visits several times each year and is happy to offer his expert advice for planning your trip.
