As the saying goes, “Virginia is for Oyster Lovers” — so for anyone from newbies to oyster connoisseurs, here’s a way to match your personality to the best oyster dishes out there.

FOR THE MINIMALIST: RAW OYSTERS ON THE HALF SHELL
This is the most traditional way to enjoy oysters, but it requires some confidence in eating raw seafood. It’s a classic and simple way to enjoy oysters.

Start with small to medium-sized ones (like Eastern or Kumamoto varieties) as they tend to be milder in flavor.

Have the oysters with classic accompaniments: mignonette sauce (a mixture of shallots, red wine vinegar, and peppercorns), cocktail sauce (with horseradish and tomato), lemon wedges and crusty bread. These add flavor and help cleanse your palate between bites. 

FOR THE MAXIMALIST: EXTRAVAGANT OYSTERS
For those looking to experience intense flavor combinations and extravagant presentations, these oyster dishes are for you!

Truffle and Champagne Oysters: Ultimate luxury! Drizzle freshly shucked oysters with truffle oil and a touch of champagne before serving them on ice with caviar.

Oyster Foie Gras Tartare: Combine the richness of foie gras with the brininess of oysters in a decadent tartare, served on blinis or crostini with a fig compote.

Oyster Crêpes Suzette: Flambe shucked oysters with Grand Marnier in a crêpe, for a tableside spectacle and a sweet-and-savory flavor combo.

Oyster Pearls: Infuse tapioca pearls with oyster liquor and serving them alongside freshly shucked oysters and pearls (real or faux) for a luxurious presentation.

FOR THE NEWBIE: COOKED OYSTERS 

If you're hesitant about raw oysters, cooked options are a great way to ease into the experience. Here are a few delicious, beginner-friendly choices! 

Oysters Rockefeller: This classic New Orleans dish involves oysters baked with spinach, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and a creamy sauce. It's flavorful and masks the strong ocean taste of raw oysters.

Grilled Oysters: Oysters topped with garlic butter, herbs, and sometimes cheese are grilled until warm and bubbly. The heat mellows the oyster flavor and creates a caramelized topping.

Oyster Po'Boy: This New Orleans sandwich features fried oysters served on French bread with lettuce, tomato, and remoulade sauce. It's a hearty and flavorful option that doesn't require enjoying them raw.

FOR THE KIDS: CREATIVE OYSTERS
While oysters are an acquired taste; not all kids will be adventurous enough to try them. Here, some delicious ways to introduce them to younger palates.

Cheesy Oyster Mac & Cheese: Add chopped oysters to your favorite mac and cheese recipe during the last few minutes of cooking. The cheese sauce mellows the oyster flavor, making it more familiar for kids.

Creamy Oyster Chowder: Make a classic New England-style chowder with corn, potatoes, and bacon, adding oysters toward the end to preserve their texture. Opt for milder oysters like Eastern or Kumamoto varieties.

Mini Oyster Pizzas: Use English muffin halves as mini pizza bases. Spread with tomato sauce, top with cooked oysters, mozzarella cheese, and bake until golden brown. Let kids customize their pizzas with additional toppings like pepperoni or pineapple.

FOR THE SPICE LOVER: SPICE, OYSTERS, & MORE SPICE!

If you’re a fan of both oysters and spice, there are plenty of exciting recipes to tantalize your taste buds. These dishes are for our heat lovers - if you’re brave enough:

Oyster Po'Boy with Spicy Remoulade: Keep the fried oysters but elevate the flavor with a homemade remoulade that packs a punch. Use Creole mustard, cayenne pepper, and smoked paprika for depth. (Mild)

Spicy Garlic Butter Oysters: This classic recipe gets a kick with the addition of sriracha, chili flakes, or your favorite hot sauce to the garlic butter topping. Broil or grill the oysters for a smoky experience. (Mild)

Spicy Thai Broiled Oysters: Fiery Larb sauce made with chiles, lime juice, and fish sauce to coat the oysters before broiling. Top with fresh cilantro and mint for a refreshing contrast to the heat. (Hot)

Spicy Chipotle Oyster Chowder: This smoky chowder features chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chorizo sausage, and roasted corn. It's a hearty dish that will warm you up from the inside out. (Hot)