Get Shucked: 10 Fun Facts About Oysters

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

  1. 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.
  2. Oysters Can Change Gender: Yep, they’re fluid. Oysters switch sexes as needed to keep reproduction flowing smoothly. Talk about going with the flow.
  3. 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.
  4. They’re Aphrodisiacs: Blame Casanova; he reportedly ate 50 oysters a day. No promises, but hey, it’s worth a shot.
  5. Oyster Shells Were Used as Currency: Back in the day, these bivalves were more valuable than Bitcoin (and a lot less confusing).
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  1. They’re the Original Indulgence: Humans have been eating them since, forever – we’re talking prehistoric times, like 2.5 million years ago.
  2. Oysters Taste Like Their Home: The briny saltiness, subtle sweetness, and even a hint of minerality reflect the waters they come from. 
  3. They’re Low-Calorie Powerhouses: They’re packed with protein, zinc, and iron – and are basically the original superfood.
  4. The World’s Largest Oyster Weighed Almost 4 Pounds: Imagine trying to slurp that monster.
  5. 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

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