Vive la France! Not sickly sweet stuff, but the desperately dry Manzanilla, which delivers acidity, crispness and salinity in droves. The biggest oysters are best used for cooking something like an oyster stuffing, which my grandma loved to make for Thanksgiving (and I always managed to hide the heaping scoop of oyster stuffing or slip it in to napkin). The northeastern French region of Brittany is as famous as Aquitaine for its world-prized, incredibly fresh oysters. . 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. For eating raw, sizes 3 - 4 are best. Oysters are best found on the coasts of the Northeastern and Eastern United States. The French oysters are meaty and nutty in taste. 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. Sign up to BOAT International email newsletters to get the latest superyacht news, business analysis, exclusive event invitations, and more. 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. Full of flavour and ideal for tastes that are a bit adventurous, these iodine-rich varieties are said to leave a subtle hint of almond on the palate. Years ago, there was an attempt to bring the Belon to Maine, and although the oyster farming failed, they survived in the wild. If youre having an event, pair your oyster with a cold Chablis or ros to make it extra special. Fish and shellfish from West Sweden are some of the best in the world. Then, bring the oyster shell to the . Pair them with a Guinness. Certificate of Excellence. While most French oysters are now Pacific Oysters, the Kelly Galway native oyster is an extremely fine example of the native flat European oyster that used to be prevalent in France, before disease and overconsumption almost entirely wiped them out. Open now : 12:00 PM - 2:30 PM6:30 PM - 10:30 PM. France has some amazing Christmas markets. They are also delicious when cooked with herbs, garlic, or other seasonings. Bluff Oysters from the southern most tip of New Zealand's South Island are some of the most prolific. During your next private, high-luxury tour of Brittany, make sure to spend some time tasting and learning about their fantastic oysters. Calibre oysters have a tangy flavor that goes well with their succulent flesh. Monaco Grand Prix yacht hospitality, MIPIM yacht charters, Cannes Lions boat rentals and Cannes Film Festival corporate yacht charter specialists. Like wine, terroir and variety matters when it comes to the world of oysters. France is known for producing oysters in three forms: plates, creuses, and fines. Oysters from France are prized for their delicate flavor and freshness. However, no country in the world can offer a more complete oyster experience than France. La Subhasta Restaurant, where a dozen will cost you35, Picture courtesy of Iakov Filimonov/Shutterstock.com. The French eat oysters as they do in How To Eat Oysters Like the French. For centuries, oysters have been grown in France, and fishermen work within a rigid production cycle. Easily accessible by superyacht, these oysters alone make Rhode Island a destination to cruise by. The creuse is everymans oyster. The country is well-known for its oyster farms, which are an important part of the French culinary culture. As an affiliate and publisher, we earn commissions for purchases made through links in this post and third party advertising. Nearly 80 per cent of the oysters produced in the region are exported to France where they are then redistributed around the world. When it comes to Christmas and New Years Eve in France, oysters (Hu*tres) are the second most popular product. Ask any Frenchman or woman and theyd look at you as if youre crazy to even think they may not be. In addition to eating and drinking with locals, he learns about their traditions and their cuisine. 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. Julius Caesar claimed that Scotlands Loch Ryan oysters were the best in the world, or so the story goes. But a bowl of clam chowder feels particularly restorative on a. Matunuck Oyster Bar, where a dozen oysters will cost you $24. Huitres et Saumons de Passy. Set in oyster parks with only five to the square yard, these oysters, prized by gourmets, grow for at least four months and double in weight during that time. Possibly the most famous oyster of them all are the Speciales Gillardeau, grown by the Gillardeau family near La Rochelle in Western France. Typically, this is the mouth of the Belon or Marenne rivers, where fresh and salt water blend. The town of Marennes is known as the oyster capital of France, and it is here that some of the finest oysters in the world are grown. Antisan is also a very popular yacht rental choice for events such as Cannes Lions and MIPIM. Though Bluff itself is a little off the beaten track, it's oysters are available across the country, so you should absolutely sail your superyacht to New Zealand Auckland and Queenstown in particular are of to some of the world's best restaurantsoffering this southern island delicacy. The laws in place are aimed to prevent food waste at large. Oyster Reviews Julie Qiu May 25, 2020 Australia , France , Africa , Brazil , Ireland , Japan , Scotland , Tasmania , international , best oysters , Loch Ryan , Bouzigues , Senpoushi , Fines de Claire , Kelly Galway 31 Comments 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. Make it a young wine, as youll again run into the pesky complexity clash with older vintages, and dont overchill, or youll ruin the flavour. 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. There are 4.5 square miles of oyster beds in a natural harbor where the oysters are grown. Enjoying a suite of international oysters with friends in Hong Kong. There are many places to eat oysters in France. France is known for its western seaboard with three separate oyster growing regions: Cancale, Marennes-Olron, & Arcachon. 9. Around 164,000 years ago, it was common for humans to consume oysters, which were introduced to Europe by hominids. Norway. These are among the most sought-after. I am cofounder and senior yacht charter broker at Bespoke Yacht Charter. 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. Our favorite is Emile et une Hutre in Village l'Herbe. Generally, there is a small fork provided for this purpose, so that it is not attached to the shell. Find your part of the world and locate oysters with ocean maps or terrain. Fishermen cannot make a profit on any fish caught outside of their quotas. The arctic temperatures and great depths of the southern waters in New Zealand contribute to the Bluff Oysters' rich and succulent flavours. Where to Taste the Best Oysters in Brittany? France controls more than 2,000 miles of coastline, featuring some of the finest oyster beds in the world. While Normandy is perhaps a bit more well-known for its French cheeses and Calvados liqueur, this region should be a priority when youre interested in tasting superb huitres and related products. Oysters, as a side dish, are popular as an appetizer made with bread and butter. Every coastal community in Brittany produces non-plus ultra oysters. The oysters from the glandardeau saucisson are among Frances best oysters, and they rank third among the top three. 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. Their stance is visitors and tourists should feel privileged to be served the finest in the world. The family-run business delivers oysters with a big bold ocean flavour. When I wasn't working or sleeping, I was hunting for oysters. The wild huitres found in villages such as Plougastel-Dauolas are more similar to scallop meat than any other type of fish. Let's take a closer look at two of them. Oysters from the East Coast are unquestionably the most popular in the seafood world. Oysters grow all around the globe on rocks and piers in the saltiest of waters. Six of the best luxury hotels with private yachts, Why this private island in Tanzania should top your travel list in 2023, Why St Barths is the spiritual home of regatta racing, Why Norway should be next on your charter hit list, 7 of the best coastal hikes accessible by boat. If youre looking for the best oysters in France, head to Marennes. Here are the ones we think you should visit. Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email. Oysters have been part of the French diet for centuries. Then, the only species available was the plate, or flat oyster (Ostrea edulis), more commonly known as the Belon. We particularly recommend tables including Le Patio, a Michelin-starred restaurant on Arcachons main beach thats headed be French chef Thierry Renou and features outstandingly fresh oysters and creative regional cuisine, as well as the recently opened Skiff Club in gorgeous Pyla-sur-Mer, with fantastic views over the dunes, remarkable gastronomy from chef Stphane Carrade, and a superb wine list. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. Picture courtesy of Bikeriderlondon/Shutterstock.com. Here is our guide on where to find six of the best oysters in the world. The iconic river ships of No. (Dont tell the French, but nearly 80% of the oysters here are exported to France and many are then sold in France and internationally under a French label. There are two types of oysters: flat oysters (Belon) and cupped oysters (Huitres). Read our No BS Guide to Eating and Drinking Like the French. The Saint-Vaast oyster is distinguished by its nutty flavor, so try it for a different taste. Oyster prices vary significantly from one location to the next. It's all due to the unique farming process they developed. Cancale: La-Pied-de-ChevalAnother variety that seafood aficionados prize is from Cancale, and more specifically an oyster referred to as Le Pied de Cheval (the horses foot). Here's how to tell oysters from the US, France and Australia apart. Exceptional but relaxed tastings can be enjoyed at places including Au Pied dCheval on the Cancale Port, whose oyster platters (sourced from the restaurants own local production site) are remarkably fresh and delicious; the seaside views are breathtaking, too. It produces two types of oysters: flat oysters (which are native to the region) and rounded oysters (which are imported from Japan). Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window), Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window), Monte-Carlo Music Masters showcases outstanding musical talents, Winter Tipples on the French Riviera : Where to Enjoy Vin Chaud and Other Wintery Treats, Michelin Stars and Rooftop Bars : 11 Things to do on a Cannes Yacht Charter, 3 reasons to charter a yacht to the South of France, The most fun toy for superyachts: Reverso, Discover The Best French Riviera 2022 Events, Discover ultimate luxury on a Monaco yacht charter, Why you should consider a Cannes Film Festival Yacht Charter, Best Affordable Restaurants on the Cote dAzur, Why you should charter a yacht on the French Riviera this September, Best Affordable Restaurants on the Cote d'Azur, MY Splendid Isolation : Why A Charter Yacht is a Haven from Coronavirus. Among the best Oysters in the world, French Oysters fall into 2 categories: plates (flat shells) and creuse (curved shell). Keep in mind that the tides here raise and lower the water by about 15 meters. 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. Each year millions of oysters bloom along the coast of Washington, California, Alabama, Maine, and other states in the United States. 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. France produces over 50% of the worlds oysters, and the majority of these come from the countrys southwest coast. The best white wine pairings for oysters are cool-climate, high-acidity wines grown in mineral-rich soils. French oyster gillardeau is a type of oyster that is grown in the Gillardeau oyster beds off the Arcachon Bay in southwestern France. The resulting oysters are silky in texture, with an addictive sweet-salty flavour. There are around 350 oyster farmers in the Arcachon Bassin and they produce 8000 - 10,000 tonnes of Pacific cupped oysters per year. Fresh Shipped; Oysters. Cancale alone produces 60,000 tons of molluscs, accounting for roughly one-third of the nations total. The famous advertising slogan for Guinness Guinness is good for you rings true in this case, but Murphys or your preferred Irish Stout will be just as good. If you want to try something new, you can begin with Anthony Bourdains journeys; his travels are a great place to start. 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? If youre looking for the perfect French oyster, the Gillardeau oyster is without a doubt the one to go with. 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. Review. Bartenders are getting creative with their martini and oyster collaborations; some now make martinis with an actual oyster thrown in there to take place of the vermouth, while others pop the oysters own salty, delicious juice in there to take the traditional olives dirty role. 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. We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. 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. As one of Scotland's largest oyster beds, both wild and farmed Ostrea edulis oysters are still harvested at the site and they are famous for having a tangy long-lasting flavour and are more round and flat in appearance. Like wine, terroir and variety matters when . Whether true or apocryphal, these are some mighty fine oysters, famed for their tangy, lingering flavour. By combining butter and salt, the oyster brine is enhanced and complimented by the richness and creaminess of the butter. Oysters have been grown in France for centuries and it was the first country in Europe to begin producing them on a large scale. Oysters taste different depending on where they were grown and how they were processed. The number of oysters in France varies from 1000 to 6, with the smaller the number, the larger the oyster. Spciales de claire mature for at least two months. On the island of Capers in South Carolina, a robust and juicy oyster known as the Capers Blade is produced. If youre looking for the best oysters in the world, you wont be disappointed by deep-sea oysters from the Cotentin Peninsula. In particular, the French coast is famous for its oysters, particularly in Bouziques, France. Because most oysters raised in aquaculture do not spawn, they have a good season. For one, they are grown in some of the cleanest and most pristine waters in the world. . This is a slight increase from the previous year, when the average price ranged from 7.1 to 7.3 euros. 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. 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. 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. 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. They have a flavor reminiscent of brine and an intense copper finish, and they are full of umami. Located next to a multi-deck boat house on Skull Creek, this landmark waterfront restaurant features an extensive cocktail and food menu. Oysters are thought to have been first domesticated in the Mediterranean region around 700 B.C. 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. 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. Many countries produce lots of wonderful oysters. Cupped oysters come in a variety of sizes and come in a numbered box. Arcachon, Pyla-sur-Mer & Cap FerretThe seaside resort town of Arcachon and its magnificent Bay is renowned for its fresh oysters. 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). Level 1 has the highest weight, but level 2 has the most texture. Virtus. It is thought some of them even return to Catalonia but under a Gallic guise. Labelled according to the same calculation as the fines, these oysters are a larger and fleshier. Oysters are grown in seven different regions in France, including Normandy, Brittany, Arcachon, and Aquitaine. To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. The word Aquitaine is derived from the French words Bonjour (for oysters and pronounced WEE-truh). Although less intensely flavoured than the plate, the creuse is equally seductive. 1 medium jalapeo, minced (about 1 tbsp.) 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 . Because of their unique flavor and texture, this type of oyster will satisfy even the most ardent oyster lover. The French are justifiably proud of their oysters; they are, after all, considered some of the finest on earth. The cold, crisp waters of the Candian coastline produces some of the best oysters in the world, such as Barron Point, Chef Creek, Golden Mantle, Mary Point, Malpeque and more. It has been claimed to be an aphrodisiac, which science can't confirm, but a young couple sharing a stable of oysters have an undoubtedly erotic quality. We always aim to show our VIP clients the secrets of Frances best producers and top culinary talents. "One of the best oyster bars in Paris!". 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. Check out where to go for the Best Seafood in the World: #1. 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. The Domaine Hippolyte Reverdy Sancerre does nicely here. Although not a traditional superyacht destination, the oysters in Ireland are reason enough to make a visit. 22 boulevard Veyrier Montagneres, 33120 Arcachon, France. These are refined oysters, grown in marshes (claires) that allow for optimum production and a controlled growing environment. Denmark's second oyster is the Pacific oyster ( crassostrea gigas ), a foreign species that was accidentally introduced to the . Pacific oysters are graded from 5 to 0 (the latter the largest, weighing over 150g) and native from small (petit) to very large (trs grande - over 100g). The larger oysters are used in molluscan dishes such as bouillabaisse, while the smaller ones are used in chowders and Rockefeller oysters. Going Deep Into Oyster Country. To get the best sense of oysters' individual flavors, it's best to eat them unadorned before adding garnishes like mignonette or cocktail sauce. Although the French eat oysters all year round, in winter you simply can't avoid them because they are everywhere. The best oysters are available in September through April, but they are unlikely to be found on menus until October. Oyster Rockefeller, a type of oyster that is popular in the United States, is also a native of France. 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. Mont-St-Michel Bay, located between Normandy and Brittany, is a stunning sight to see. The oysters are harvested and sorted by size after being hand-harvested. The simplicity of the dishs flavors highlights its ability to showcase each ingredient. Beauregard. The ultimate Paris vacation guide. Some kind of dry white wine or Champagne is generally suggested as an accompaniment. Kelly Oysters, based in a small inlet in Galway Bay, have been described as the best flavoured in the world. The latter two offer types known as Fines and Fines de Claire, although they traditionally hail from the Marennes-Olron region. 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). A large portion of the oysters are cultivated in Isigny-sur-Mer and its surrounding towns in the Calvados department. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. Finally, there's no need to worry about calories whilst eating oysters! Best for On-Demand Harvesting: Fishers Island Oyster Farm - NY. Tempura oysters are a speciality here. To reach the Saupin standard, oysters must be grown at level 9. Although some of these areas are far more famous than others, they all produce excellent oysters. 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. The native Knysna oyster, nutty and creamy and utterly unique, is the speciality of 34 South, a bustling warehouse-style waterfront restaurant on the Knysna Quay. The oyster industry is rich in history, as can be seen by dipping your toe into the briny waters. Oysters flavor is said to be unique because they combine the salty Mediterranean flavor with the sweet freshness of the River Ebro. Learn how your comment data is processed. If so, get in touch with now. The half-shell oyster is a standard unit of purchase in these parts because oysters are abundant. At bistros and brasseries around the country, you'll find raw oysters on the menu-and many believe French oysters to be the best in the . 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. 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. Olron and Marnenet oyster La Fine (the fine) is a type of oyster that is finished in old salt marshes. A stamp bearing the image of Henri Matisse was used to acknowledge the value of oysters in France, where they are so highly valued. He opened his first restaurant in Paris in 1980 before moving it into a more spacious space in 1987 and . Are French oysters the best in the world? Best Overall West Coast Oysters: Hog Island Oyster - CA. By . Oysters are a common ingredient in most restaurants, from humble bistros to fine dining establishments. Content presented under the "BOAT Presents" logo is an advertising feature and Boat International Limited has been paid to include this content. For many oyster connoisseurs, Aquitaine is synonymous with incomparably fresh, delicious huitres (French for oysters and pronounced WEE-truh. These oysters cost a whopping $100 each. "Always begin by loosening the oyster. Our private tours will unveil a host of secretive, exclusive and authentic places to taste the very best; these are just a couple we recommend in the area. 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. 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. Tauck moved up two places in T+L's 2021 rankings to grab the No. Tut, tut.). In particular, the French coast is famous for its oysters, particularly in Bouziques, France. There is no finer experience than dining on oysters overlooking the Thau lagoon as the sun goes down. Because they live in different parts of the world, they have different dialects. We'd like to introduce you to one of the best oysters in the world: the Belon oyster. Find Oyster Bars; . If you want an unforgettable seafood experience, visit the East Coast. All of these amino acids, in addition to being a source of nutrients, have been linked to aphrodisiac properties. Seating at the outdoors Marker 13 Buoy Bar is first-come,. They explain every aspect of oyster history and nurturing. Many regional dishes include shellfish, which is aromatic and delicious in traditional dishes as well as in excellent wines. This results in oysters that are plump and full of flavor. The most important part of the Texas oyster harvest is in Galveston Bay. 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. If youre looking for the best oysters in France, the Gillardeau oysters are an absolute must. This allows them to grow fatter and more substantial than fines de claire. 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. Heres a summary of some of the terms you are likely to encounter: France produces two types of oysters, plates and creuses.