There are 4.5 square miles of oyster beds in a natural harbor where the oysters are grown. The best oysters are available in September through April, but they are unlikely to be found on menus until October. France has some of the best oyster experiences in the world. Virtus. The name may not mean much to some, but to oyster fans, Tarbouriech oysters are among the very best in the world. White Wine: Chablis and Sancerre, if you please. Manage Settings For a more formal gastronomic experience, we particularly recommend lunch or dinner at Tabl Breizh Caf in Cancale, a Michelin-starred address whose Brton and Japanese menu fuses traditions beautifully; the menu includes oyster platters and fusion specialities using the delicacy as a key ingredient. The resulting oysters are silky in texture, with an addictive sweet-salty flavour. If you want the best oysters in the world, you must visit the Delta de l'Ebre, which is located between Barcelona and Valencia and is a top contender. The caramelized oysters are served in . Oysters actually spend a scientifically determined number of days being dipped in and out of the water. - Luxembourg) +33 1 44 41 10 07 Website E-mail Improve this listing Ranked #700 of 19,809 Restaurants in Paris 698 Reviews Price range: $28 - $38 Cuisines: Seafood More restaurant details nyctravelbug6018 These oysters cost a whopping $100 each. Oysters are typically consumed raw, in part due to their high nutritional value. 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. The legendary French oyster cultivation areas are Cancale, Marennes-Olron, and Arcachon. Yannick effortlessly shucks oysters Continue with Recommended Cookies. Then, the only species available was the plate, or flat oyster (Ostrea edulis), more commonly known as the Belon. They look identical at first glance, coming in some shade of grey with a similar briny flavour. The Glidden Point oysters in Maine are known as the gold standard, and they are some of the best oysters in the state. by Margaret | Jan 30, 2023 | Popular Seafood Dishes. Learn how your comment data is processed. Many regional dishes include shellfish, which is aromatic and delicious in traditional dishes as well as in excellent wines. The word Aquitaine is derived from the French words Bonjour (for oysters and pronounced WEE-truh). 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. An American oyster, as opposed to a French oyster, has a distinct brininess. The waters are cold, fresh and salty and contain prawns, langoustine, lobster, mussels, oysters - and fantastic fish. 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. France controls more than 2,000 miles of coastline, featuring some of the finest oyster beds in the world. Generally, there is a small fork provided for this purpose, so that it is not attached to the shell. Labelled according to the same calculation as the fines, these oysters are a larger and fleshier. 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 . This unique terroir produces oysters that are delightfully fresh and full of aromatic flavours. If youre looking for a more intense oyster flavor, consider California oysters. A large part of the region, whose largest city is Bordeaux, runs alongside the Atlantic coast, a genuine treasure-trove for local oyster-tasting. Among the best Oysters in the world, French Oysters fall into 2 categories: plates (flat shells) and creuse (curved shell). Oysters are a common ingredient in most restaurants, from humble bistros to fine dining establishments. Many consider theirs to be the Rolls Royce of French huitres. Joel Goldberg for The New York Times. The countrys long coastline and diverse climate provide the perfect conditions for oyster farming. In Saint-Vaast-la-Houge, for example, France et Fuschias is a local table helmed by young chef Alexandre Raymond; it has won accolades for its excellent oysters and creative cuisine with roots in Norman cuisine. Barron Point: These large oysters ("hand-sized", as we like to call them) are from the nutrient-rich waters of Little Skookum. Other countries around the world have oysters that are frequently briny and salty. The simplicity of the dishs flavors highlights its ability to showcase each ingredient. Like wine, terroir and variety matters when it comes to the world of oysters. Because oysters have unique flavors and textures, you should chew them (not swallow them whole) to get a full taste. Oysters are a popular food in France, and are often eaten raw with a squeeze of lemon juice. For centuries, oysters have been grown in France, and fishermen work within a rigid production cycle. 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". 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. The number of oysters in France varies from 1000 to 6, with the smaller the number, the larger the oyster. Pacific oysters and native oysters have different measurement systems in France. The largest city in this region, Bordeaux, is located along the Atlantic coast. Terroir (pronounced "tehr-wahr") means the characteristics of a placeits climate, geology, and wildlife, for examplethat impact . Read related: 4 Destinations for Luxury Travellers on the West Coast of France, Read related: Experience Our Luxury French Cheese Tours, Read related: Luxury Tours of Mont Saint-Michel, Normandys Natural Wonder, Protected: West Coast of France: 4 Luxurious Destinations, The Interview : Richard Pfister and the art of Oeno-Perfumery. Bespoke Yacht Charter Bespoke Yacht Charter offer luxury yacht charters and boat rentals on motor yachts, sailing yachts and superyachts on the Cte dAzur and French Riviera. Grand Isle. Your private tour might include a visit to the charming town, stopping to discover the secrets of its finest local producers and tasting rooms. France is Europe's leading producer and consumer of cupped oysters. 3 Viking Cruises also fared well this year, with readers . They can be found in the coastal areas of the country, as well as in the rivers and lakes. Their Rappahannocks are part of a long legacy of oyster growing (started in 1899) and carry with them a mild minerality and lingering sweetness. Olron and Marnenet oyster La Fine (the fine) is a type of oyster that is finished in old salt marshes. Claimed. Tut, tut.). Aided by the significant tidal difference, the oysters filter plenty of nutrient-rich seawater every day. The French are justifiably proud of their oysters; they are, after all, considered some of the finest on earth. Spciales de claire mature for at least two months. There are many places to eat oysters in France. These farmed oysters are harvested in a salt pond to give them their characterful, briney flavour and slightly sweet finish. Some people enjoy them simply because they are without any extras, while others enjoy them with a sprinkle of butter and bread. The creuse is everymans oyster. Elegant Address The very best in luxury villa rentals on the Cte dAzur and French Riviera. In Europe, raw French oysters are frequently served with a squirt of lemon juice and a squeeze of Tabasco sauce. Shells. Of those oysters, 50% are eaten in the single week between Christmas and New Year. Ranked #16 of 159 Restaurants in Arcachon. Marennes-Olron is famous for its La Pousse en Clair variety, which is elevated in low density ponds and shallow waters. Determined by a complicated calculation that only the French understand; this designation means small- to medium-sized. The country has a long tradition of oyster farming"L'ostriculture," and eating them, of course. 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. Denmark's second oyster is the Pacific oyster ( crassostrea gigas ), a foreign species that was accidentally introduced to the . Although some of these areas are far more famous than others, they all produce excellent oysters. They are delicious raw or cooked in different traditional Norman dishes, including ones featuring local apple ciders. The most important part of the Texas oyster harvest is in Galveston Bay. 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. In the flavor of the Hama oyster, there is a cucumber aftertaste and a pleasant salinity. 1 medium jalapeo, minced (about 1 tbsp.) Because French oysters are grown in France, they are considered to be the best. 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. And the French know this. There are many reasons why French oysters are the best. A bottle of Domaine Servin Chablis Premiere Cuvee les Pargues could be just the drop. Oyster Rockefeller, a type of oyster that is popular in the United States, is also a native of France. They are large, juicy and have an intense flavour, earning them a place among the finest oysters in the world. Best Oyster Gifts; 2020 Holiday Newsletter; Solstice Spirit; Rebuttal to Oyster Herpes Op-Ed; Arcachon Bay Oysters in France Piret Ilver Oysters are "affordable luxury" - always special, different in every corner of the world, and every moment while eating oysters is special. Matunuck Oyster Bar, where a dozen oysters will cost you $24. +33 5 56 83 78 81. Located between Barcelona and Valencia in the pristine wetlands of the Delta de lEbre National Park, these delicious oysters benefit from the salt water of the Mediterranean and the fresh water of the River Ebro. The oysters are famous for their meaty flesh which supplies an endless ocean of flavours. By . It's a French word that you may have heard used with wine. When they are three years old and fully mature, they are transferred to an estuarial environment. 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. "Great service, great food!". Oysters, according to popular belief, have a distinct flavor that is influenced by the Mediterranean's salty taste and the River Ebro's sweet freshness. Fishermen place baby shellfish in beds in order to grow them as they approach maturity, and they return to the beds to place them as they grow. Interested in oyster tasting in France? Its flavour is easy, fresh and sprightly, evoking bracing sea breezes and sea water. Born in 1953, Savoy began training to be a chef at the age of 15 and spent the next few years working with chefs around the world. Antisan Yacht Antisan is an exceptional charter yacht based in Cannes and available to rent on the French Riviera and other Mediterranean destinations. 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? Well tell you why the oysters in France are so good, the different types, where you can enjoy them and how to eat them. I am cofounder and senior yacht charter broker at Bespoke Yacht Charter. Whether true or apocryphal, these are some mighty fine oysters, famed for their tangy, lingering flavour. They have a flavor reminiscent of brine and an intense copper finish, and they are full of umami. Keep in mind that the tides here raise and lower the water by about 15 meters. As mentioned above, theres a language of terroir and crus that accompanies oysters, particularly in the French oyster industry, and some of the very best pairings are when an oyster is paired with a local wine, particularly in regions where the soil the vines are grown in was once seabed, and therefore rich in marine sediment. Beer: Guinness is Good forEating Oysters. They are generally whitish-gray in outer shell color, and their inside shell . Review. The oysters are harvested when they are three years old and have a slightly briny taste with a hint of sweetness. We are a London and French Riviera based yacht brokerage offering crewed luxury yacht charters and boat rentals in the south of France, throughout the Mediterranean and beyond. Fishermen cannot make a profit on any fish caught outside of their quotas. The French oysters are meaty and nutty in taste. Tauck moved up two places in T+L's 2021 rankings to grab the No. 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. Oyster & Chop, where a dozen bluff oysters costs $54, Picture courtesy of Shutterstock.com / Farris Noorzali. As part of a well-known oyster brand, the third and fourth generations have taken over management. The Hog Island Oyster Company of Tomales Bay, California, is famous for its hog Island Sweetwater oyster. Quicklist: Types of Oysters Crassostrea gigas Pacific Oysters Crassostrea sikamea Kumamoto Oysters Ostrea edulis Belon Oysters Ostrea lurida/conchapila Olympia Oysters Saccostrea glomerata Sydney Rock Oysters Crassostrea virginica Eastern Oysters Blue Point Oysters Beausoleil Oysters Misty Point Oysters Well Fleet Oysters Around 164,000 years ago, it was common for humans to consume oysters, which were introduced to Europe by hominids. Although fabulous oysters are still served in London and New York, Paris remains supreme. They taste slightly different depending on where they came from: salty and nutty in Normandy, iodiney and delicate and invigorating in Brittany. Mont-St-Michel Bay, located between Normandy and Brittany, is a stunning sight to see. The family-run business delivers oysters with a big bold ocean flavour. They are often served with a squeeze of lemon juice and a glass of white wine. Bouzigues may not be able to compete with the above two producers for notoriety, but their name is growing. Oysters Shallots Butter Flour Mushrooms White Wine Cayenne Pepper Salt Breadcrumbs Parmigiano Reggiano WHERE TO EAT THE BEST Oysters Bienville View more 1 Arnaud's New Orleans , United States of America 2 Felix's Restaurant & Oyster Bar New Orleans , United States of America 3 Antoine's Restaurant New Orleans , United States of America 4 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? With over 2,000 miles of coastline, France is the largest producer of oysters in Europe. Despite the fact that oysters are a small but important part of the French culinary culture, they can be quite pricey. Anthony Bourdain takes great pleasure in traveling because he respects people and food. Best Overall West Coast Oysters: Hog Island Oyster - CA. To reach the Saupin standard, oysters must be grown at level 9. Some of the world's best oysters can be found along the stunning coasts of Brittany and Normandy in France. Although not a traditional superyacht destination, the oysters in Ireland are reason enough to make a visit. Aquitaine is a thriving oyster-producing region, thanks to the presence of small oyster farms and restaurants specializing in the delicacy. 3 rue de Montfaucon, 75006 Paris France +33 1 44 41 10 07 Website Menu. Located next to a multi-deck boat house on Skull Creek, this landmark waterfront restaurant features an extensive cocktail and food menu. "One of the best oyster bars in Paris!". Oysters have been consumed in France since the Roman Empire. 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! If youre looking for a seafood dish that has a French flavor, try French oysters. In order to enjoy oysters like the French, you must immerse yourself in the ocean. Allow Necessary Cookies & Continue 2 spot with an eye-popping score above 96. 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. The town of Isigny-sur Mer and nearby Grandcamp-Maisy are both excellent ports of call for sampling the prized local produce. Rent the finest South of France villas and prestigious properties in St Tropez, Cannes, Cap dAntibes, Villefranche-sur-Mer and Cap Ferrat. 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 . Boat International Media Ltd 2008 - 2022. Although fabulous oysters are still served in London and New York, Paris remains supreme. There are around 350 oyster farmers in the Arcachon Bassin and they produce 8000 - 10,000 tonnes of Pacific cupped oysters per year. You can even board a 2CV vintage Citroen on embark on a rustic yet elegant tour around the landing beaches and picturesque natural sites such as the Cliffs at Etretat, stopping to taste oysters and other authentic Norman products (calvados, wines, cheeses, ciders) along the way. 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. The meat is chewy and sweet, with a umami aftertaste and brininess to it. The fresh ocean taste of an oyster while relaxing on a luxury yacht is hard to beat. Meanwhile, in nearby Plougastel, a trip to the tasting room of prestigious oyster producers Thierry Larnicol and Jean Le Moal (Keraliou) is a wonderful place to try creative regional cuisine from chef Philippe Lambert, with dishes such as beef tartare with oysters certain to please gourmet palates. We'd like to introduce you to one of the best oysters in the world: the Belon oyster. Easily accessible by superyacht, these oysters alone make Rhode Island a destination to cruise by. 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. Let your tastebuds be your guide! If you want to try something new, you can begin with Anthony Bourdains journeys; his travels are a great place to start. The laws in place are aimed to prevent food waste at large. Oysters are grown in seven different regions in France, including Normandy, Brittany, Arcachon, and Aquitaine. . 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). They have a flatter shape and are known as Belons or Marennes in two of the places where they are made. Go for a Brut (dry), bright, citrusy, non-vintage champagne. The coast of France also offers fantastic oyster experiences. There are both flat (native European) and creased (Pacific rock) varieties cultivated in the lake, some have an almost hazelnut aftertaste, while some are reminiscent of watermelon. France has some amazing Christmas markets. In the 19th century, there were three oyster capitals in the world: Paris, London and New York. These oysters are lauded as being unusually sweet and as having a pleasing, complex texture. 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 . The classics in Paris are oysters from legendary French oyster cultivation areas such as Cancale, Marennes-Olron, and Arcachon. Fans may have their favourites such as the special oysters of Isigny, tasty and pulpy, and those of Saint-Vaast, which are known for their nutty flavour. The arctic temperatures and great depths of the southern waters in New Zealand contribute to the Bluff Oysters' rich and succulent flavours. Outside the Champagne region, a bottle of Cremant de Limoux will go down very nicely. But which are the ones you should visit this year? 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. If youre looking for the perfect French oyster, the Gillardeau oyster is without a doubt the one to go with. Enjoy a platter of freshly caught, raw oysters accompanied with lemon and crusty bread, or try them cooked in Brton cider or even as a filling in a traditional savoury buckwheat crepe (galette). These are refined oysters, grown in marshes (claires) that allow for optimum production and a controlled growing environment. 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. Oyster shacks are all over Paris, and Parisians have a lot of love for oysters. And justifiably so. The majority of the plates oysters come from Brittany or at least France, but the creuse may be imported. Norway. The production is small, really, considering that Brittany produces 35,000 tonnes of France's annual 150,000 tonnes of oysters. Possibly the most famous oyster of them all are the Speciales Gillardeau, grown by the Gillardeau family near La Rochelle in Western France. However, no country in the world can offer a more complete oyster experience than France. A letter from Julius Ceaser reportedly claims that Loch Ryan oysters are the best in the world. If youre going to eat raw oysters, allow 6 to 8 oysters per person, and 5 if theyre going to be served warm. "Best oysters in the world" Review of Huitrerie Regis 393 photos Huitrerie Regis 3 rue de Montfaucon, 75006 Paris, France (6th Arr. 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. In the 19th century, there were three oyster capitals in the world: Paris, London and New York. With its long beaches and steep chalk cliffs, Normandy is home to superb oyster grounds and has become one of the leading oyster-producing regions of France in recent decades. However, these oysters are truly massive, which means you likely won't want to order that many. Expect some competition, as for the French, getting the best oysters is somewhat of a national sport. This episode of How We Eat explores the complex history of this beloved bival. Kelly Oysters, based in a small inlet in Galway Bay, have been described as the best flavoured in the world. Delta de l'Ebre, Catalonia, Spain When you think of eating oysters in Europe, you may automatically think of France. mignonette, a tangy condiment made of vinegar and shallots, is typically served with oysters. Frances most renowned oysters are Speciales Gillardeau, which are produced by the Gillardeau family. They are typically served raw, with a squeeze of lemon juice and a drop of Tabasco sauce. They are definitely an ingrained element of French culture. This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Then, bring the oyster shell to the . For true oyster lovers, theres really nothing better than tucking into a dozen on the half-shell at a seaside bistro. France is known for its western seaboard with three separate oyster growing regions: Cancale, Marennes-Olron, & Arcachon. Finally, another destination in Nouvelle Aquitaine that reserves some of Frances 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. Especially when you can look out and see the sparkling waters the shellfish were plucked from just hours before. In addition to eating and drinking with locals, he learns about their traditions and their cuisine. In fact, the oyster beds just outside the Dansk Skaldyrcenter are part of the last large colony of wild European oysters left in the world. They are difficult to grow and are produced in small quantities, and so they are more expensive. During private tours, you can discover the very best places to eat, hidden away, and at the very least for the first time. Loch Ryan is the only active oyster fishery remaining in Scotland and has been run by the Wallace family since 1701 when the beds were given a royal charter by King William II. 6. Enjoying a suite of international oysters with friends in Hong Kong. Provence & French Riviera. You will have the most delicious gourmet adventures, as well as the most expensive huatres, on our unique culinary tours. Although the French eat oysters all year round, in winter you simply can't avoid them because they are everywhere. This flat, rounded and wild oyster variety has a fresh, fleshy interior and is appreciated for its unique flavour as well as its rarity. Juice of 2 limes (about 2 tbsp.) They look identical at first glance, coming in some shade of grey with a similar briny flavour. The best place to enjoy Bassin of Arcachon oysters is in Cap Ferret itself. Years ago, there was an attempt to bring the Belon to Maine, and although the oyster farming failed, they survived in the wild. For something deliciously salty and fleshy with a fruity aftertaste, try Bouzigues oysters, which are farmed in a saltwater lake called the Etang de Thau. Antisan is also a very popular yacht rental choice for events such as Cannes Lions and MIPIM. The oyster is a French delicacy that has been popular among kings and peasants for centuries. Any gourmet tour of southwestern France which may also include caviar and truffle tastings as well as superb wineries around Bordeaux should and can initiate you to the regions top-rate huitres. Bretagne produces a wide variety of oysters, many of which are prized by gourmets. 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. I succeeded in finding them in 10 of the 14 countries that I visited. A Brut Blanc de Blanc (100% chardonnay) is a very good choice, such as either Pierre Gimonnet Premier Cru Brut NV, or Chapuy Grand Cru Blanc de Blancs Champagne.