Oysters Rockefeller — Photo courtesy of Oysters Rockefeller
Virginia Beach is a prime spot for locating a tasty order of oyster bakes, otherwise known as Oysters Rockefeller. It's no wonder that this rich dish was named after one of America's wealthiest.
Many beach spots, with their fresh catch, offer up fine servings of this treat including Beach Pub. Although no longer right on the beach, this restaurant visited by TV show host Guy Fieri of Diner's, Drive-Ins and Dives, has been the local favorite for nearly 35 years.
Other noteworthy faves are Rudee's (right on the water) and Smackwater Jack's, whose ingredients of bacon, spinach and cheese also offer an extra spicy kick.
Roasted oysters at the Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa's First Friday Oyster Roast — Photo courtesy of Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa
No self-respecting Savannahian bakes his oysters. In Coastal Georgia, we roast them over an open flame, which makes them easy to shuck and brings out their succulent flavor. If you’re a local, chances are you’ve stood around a fire pit with family and friends, surrounded by bowls of cocktail sauce and melted butter, partaking in this mouthwatering ritual.
But, for those visiting Savannah, snagging an invitation to a neighborhood oyster roast may be a little tricky. Fortunately, the Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa has come to the rescue with its First Friday Oyster Roasts. From 7-10 pm on the first Friday of every month, guests get to enjoy buckets of oysters, peel-and-eat shrimp and an open bar, all while enjoying a lovely view of the Savannah River and grooving to live music. The outdoor event is open to the public, whether you’re staying at the Westin or not, and prices are à la carte.
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In Baltimore and the surrounding Chesapeake area, summer ushers in both crab social outings and oyster bakes. Drive down the roads of any suburban Chesapeake town and you'll see dozens of signs throughout the season for oyster bakes, many of which are centered around a fundraiser. It's common to see different fire and police departments in the area host company bakes during the summer.
These oyster bakes are like one big outdoor neighborhood barbeque, filled with high spirits, oysters, seafood and other dishes that often make these events well-attended. If you're looking for oysters year-round or a more refined setting, you can visit the oyster bars of restaurants like Mama's on The Half Shell, Faidley Seafood or the Thames Street Oyster House to get your mollusc fill.