Savor the Sea: Best Raw Oysters on the Emerald Coast

There’s nothing quite like enjoying raw oysters on the Emerald Coast—whether you’re new to these ocean gems or a seasoned seafood enthusiast, the experience of slurping down fresh oysters with a splash of lemon and your favorite condiments is quintessentially coastal. From Destin to Miramar Beach, Santa Rosa Beach, and 30A, the Emerald Coast offers some of the best oyster bars in Florida. Ready to dive into the world of raw oysters? Here’s everything you need to know, along with some of the top spots to enjoy them.

How to Eat a Raw Oyster

If you’ve never tried a raw oyster, you might be wondering how to eat one. The key is to start with fresh oysters—once served, gently loosen the oyster from its shell using a small fork. After that, tilt the shell toward your mouth and slurp the oyster down! You can chew it lightly to savor the texture and briny flavor or swallow it whole for a smoother experience.

The fun part? Adding condiments! Popular options include:

• Lemon Juice: Adds a zesty brightness to the oyster’s natural brininess.
• Hot Sauce: For those who like a little heat, a dash of hot sauce gives your oyster a spicy kick.
• Mignonette Sauce: A tangy mixture of vinegar, shallots, and pepper that complements the oyster’s salty flavor.
• Horseradish: For a bit of bite, adding a dab of horseradish can bring out the oyster’s rich flavor.

Top Spots for Raw Oysters on the Emerald Coast

Now that you’re ready to give raw oysters a try, here are some of the best places to enjoy them along the Emerald Coast:

1. The Boat House Oyster Bar (Destin)

A local favorite, The Boat House Oyster Bar in Destin is famous for its laid-back vibe and fresh oysters. Located on the harbor, this spot offers a variety of oyster options—raw, steamed, and even baked.

• Where: Destin, FL
• More Info: Visit The Boat House Oyster Bar
• Cost: Oysters are affordable, starting around $12 for a half-dozen.

2. Emeril’s Coastal (Miramar Beach)

Celebrity chef Emeril Lagasse’s Emeril’s Coastal in Miramar Beach offers a fresh take on Gulf oysters. While you can enjoy traditional raw oysters here, Emeril also presents creative dishes like chargrilled oysters with garlic butter and Parmesan.

• Where: Miramar Beach, FL
• More Info: Visit Emeril’s Coastal
• Cost: Higher-end pricing, but worth the splurge for both raw and prepared oysters.

3. Stinky’s Fish Camp (Santa Rosa Beach)

A well-known seafood haven on 30A, Stinky’s Fish Camp is the perfect spot to indulge in oysters, whether you prefer them raw, fried, or charbroiled. Their oyster shooters (served with a shot of beer or liquor) are a fun way to experience the local oyster culture.

• Where: Santa Rosa Beach, FL (30A)
• More Info: Visit Stinky’s Fish Camp
• Cost: Oysters range from $10–$20 depending on the preparation.

4. Boshamps Seafood & Oyster House (Destin)

Overlooking the harbor in Destin, Boshamps serves fresh Gulf oysters that are as flavorful as the views. Their raw oysters are often served on the half shell, and you can also try their baked varieties with garlic butter and cheese.

• Where: Destin, FL
• More Info: Visit Boshamps
• Cost: Oysters start around $15 for a half-dozen.

Unique Oyster Preparations You Must Try

While raw oysters are a southern tradition, the Emerald Coast restaurants love to get creative with oyster dishes. Here are a few unique preparations to sample:

• Chargrilled Oysters: Oysters grilled with garlic butter, Parmesan cheese, and herbs—offering a rich, smoky flavor. Emeril’s Coastal and Boshamps serve exceptional versions of this dish.
• Oyster Shooters: For a fun twist, try The Boat House Oyster Bar’s oyster shooters, which are raw oysters served in a shot glass with cocktail sauce and your choice of vodka or beer.
• Baked Oysters: Baked oysters, like the ones served at Stinky’s Fish Camp, often come with creative toppings like crab meat, melted cheese, or spicy Cajun seasoning.

Why You Should Try Raw Oysters

If you’ve never tried raw oysters before, now’s the time! Oysters are more than just a seafood delicacy—they’re a southern tradition deeply rooted in coastal culture. Each oyster’s briny, salty taste offers a true flavor of the Gulf waters, and they pair wonderfully with a cold drink and ocean views. Plus, the different condiments and preparation methods give you plenty of ways to customize your oyster experience.

Tips for First-Timers

If you’re nervous about trying raw oysters for the first time, start with a mild preparation like a mignonette sauce or just a squeeze of lemon. Don’t be afraid to experiment—there’s no right or wrong way to enjoy them! And if you prefer something a bit heartier, go for chargrilled or baked oysters, which offer a more substantial and savory bite.

Where to Stay: Legacy Beach Homes

After indulging in the best oysters on the Emerald Coast, you’ll want a luxurious and spacious place to relax. Legacy Beach Homes offers the perfect accommodations for your multi-family or large group beach vacation. Our collection of newly-built homes in Destin, Miramar Beach, and 30A are designed for large groups, with properties that sleep 20+ guests and side-by-side homes that accommodate 50+ guests.

Our beach homes feature private pools, easy beach access, and complimentary paddleboards and golf carts. Plus, with no third-party fees and 5-star hosting, we ensure that your Emerald Coast stay is nothing short of extraordinary.

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