Oysters: the one food that’s both classy and messy, delicate yet bold. At P.J. Clarke’s, our raw bar is considered a legend in itself, offering oysters so fresh they practically speak while you slurp them. But before you grab your stool and get a dozen, here are some interesting facts about oysters that’ll make you the smartest shucker in the room.
10 Fun Facts About Oysters
- Oysters Clean the Ocean: Each oyster filters up to 50 gallons of water a day. They’re like nature’s ocean purifiers – except infinitely more delicious.
- Oysters Can Change Gender: Yep, they’re fluid. Oysters switch sexes as needed to keep reproduction flowing smoothly. Talk about going with the flow.
- There Are Over 150 Varieties: From Wellfleets to Moonstones, each oyster brings its own distinct taste; some briny, some sweet, all unforgettable. P.J. Clarke’s stocks the best of the bunch daily, so give us a call to find out what’s on deck.
- They’re Aphrodisiacs: Blame Casanova; he reportedly ate 50 oysters a day. No promises, but hey, it’s worth a shot.
- Oyster Shells Were Used as Currency: Back in the day, these bivalves were more valuable than Bitcoin (and a lot less confusing).
- They’re the Original Indulgence: Humans have been eating them since, forever – we’re talking prehistoric times, like 2.5 million years ago.
- Oysters Taste Like Their Home: The briny saltiness, subtle sweetness, and even a hint of minerality reflect the waters they come from.
- They’re Low-Calorie Powerhouses: They’re packed with protein, zinc, and iron – and are basically the original superfood.
- The World’s Largest Oyster Weighed Almost 4 Pounds: Imagine trying to slurp that monster.
- Oyster Lovers Have Their Own Holiday: National Oyster Day is August 5th. Mark your calendar, then mark your spot at P.J.’s.
Keeping it Fresh at P.J.'s
Now that you’ve got some fun oyster facts, there’s only one place to go: P.J. Clarke’s. Our raw bar menu on Third Avenue has all the finest varieties. These beauties are harvested-to-order and hit our tables within 24 hours – no exceptions. You’ll know the difference when you taste them.
So, what’s your move? Make a reservation, grab some food, and let our oysters remind you why classics never go out of style. Pair them with a cold drink, and you’ve got yourself the perfect moment: timeless, just like P.J.’s.