Shuck Yeah! 8 Places for the Best Oysters in Vancouver

As a seafood lover, Vancouver is a culinary destination that should be at the top of your list. Situated on the picturesque Pacific coast, Vancouver boasts a rich seafood culture that is renowned for its fresh and delicious oysters. Whether you're a fan of raw, grilled, or fried oysters, Vancouver's diverse food scene has something for everyone.

In this article, we'll take you on a tantalizing journey to discover the top eight spots for the best oysters in Vancouver. From upscale restaurants to cozy bars, we'll introduce you to the most exceptional oysters and the best places to savor them. So, if you're ready to embark on a gastronomic adventure and indulge in Vancouver's finest oysters, let's dive in!

One cannot talk about the best oysters in Vancouver without mentioning Coast, a renowned upmarket bi-level eatery that brings the true essence of West Coast seafood to your plate.

With a massive circular oyster bar that's always stocked with the freshest oysters, and a cocktail menu that's sure to impress, Coast offers an unforgettable dining experience for seafood lovers.

Apart from serving tasty oysters, chefs are experts in crafting the most exquisite dishes, with a showstopper on their menu that features lobster, calamari, prawns, mussels, and clams, all masterfully combined in a fragrant bed of saffron rice. For sushi aficionados, Coast's Signature Sushi Box is a must-try; meticulously prepared by their expert sushi chefs, it's a treasure trove of oceanic delights.

The atmosphere at Coast is both relaxed and comfortable, despite its high-end seafood offerings. The food is consistently exceptional, with each dish full of flavor, freshness, and guaranteed to satiate your appetite. Pair your appetizers and entrées with a selection from their extensive wine list, hand-picked to enhance the flavors of the ocean.

Embark on a gastronomic journey to the heart of Vancouver's oyster scene with a visit to Rodney's Oyster House, a beloved seafood place with locations in both Gastown and Yaletown. Known for their exceptional food and unrivaled service, Rodney's has become a go-to destination for oyster aficionados and seafood enthusiasts alike.

With an extensive menu that features a variety of local cuisines, it truly shines when it comes to their fresh seafood offerings. Their oyster selection of at least 9 to 20 different types vary according to the time of the year, coastal tides and weather conditions.

One of the highlights of the restaurant is their Low Tide menu, also known as their happy hour, which allows diners to indulge in raw seafood delicacies at a more budget-friendly price.

It takes classic dishes and elevates them to new heights, such as their unforgettable fish and chips. Expertly prepared, this seemingly ordinary dish is transformed into a specialty you'll find yourself craving long after your visit. Equally noteworthy is their seafood pasta, featuring a medley of oceanic treasures perfectly paired with their special in-house sauce, delighting both the heart and the eyes of pasta lovers everywhere.

Experience the ultimate fusion of West Coast, Latin, and Japanese flavors at Ancora Waterfront Dining, a chic, bi-level restaurant that offers not only exceptional seafood, but also breathtaking water views. Whether you're dining indoors or enjoying the beautiful, sun-soaked patio, the atmosphere at Ancora is nothing short of enchanting.

The real star of the show, however, is the food. Each dish is prepared with utmost care and creativity, ensuring a memorable dining experience for all. One of the highlights of this seafood restaurant is their Ancora Glacier - a seafood platter for two, which boasts a mouthwatering array of fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented seafood selections. Pair this with their delicious crab taco for a truly indulgent treat.

The staff at the restaurant are attentive, knowledgeable, and genuinely dedicated to providing an unforgettable experience. They'll expertly guide you through the menu, explaining each dish in detail.

The unique blend of culinary influences sets it apart from other oyster restaurants in Vancouver, creating a truly distinctive dining experience. Whether you're enjoying the fresh seafood selections, the innovative fusion of flavors, or simply taking in the stunning views, Ancora Waterfront Dining offers an unmatched adventure that is not to be missed.

For over three decades, Joe Fortes Seafood & Chop House has been a true icon in Vancouver's culinary scene, upholding the legendary reputation of its namesake. This award-winning restaurant, reminiscent of a San Francisco-style seafood grill, offers a dynamic and amazing dining experience that has captivated both locals and visitors.

Joe Fortes features a vibrant, booth-lined dining room, a popular oyster bar, and a stunning rooftop patio. The welcoming atmosphere and exceptional service create a truly different take.

On the half shell, fresh chilled oysters paired with traditional cocktail sauce, tangy mignonette lemon, zesty ponzu, and horseradish. And if you wanted to taste some of their hot oyster options, try Crispy Fried Local Oysters with Joe’s classic tartar sauce or Oysters Rockefeller - with added spinach, hollandaise sause and pernod.

Also, you can find happy hour oysters from 3 PM - 5 PM daily - for only $2.

What sets Joe Fortes apart is not only the quality of its dishes but also the incredible variety on offer. With a wine list boasting over 300 wines, there's a perfect pairing for every dish on
the menu. The seafood and steak options are equally impressive, prepared with precision and care to satisfy even the most discerning palate.

The level of hospitality is unrivaled. The staff's commitment to providing a uniquely personal dining experience ensures that each visit is truly special. With a steadfast dedication to quality, service, and reputation, the restaurant continues to delight its patrons time and time again.

Chewies Steam & Oyster Bar has been a staple for seafood enthusiasts since its establishment in 2011. Committed to serving delectable comfort food in a warm and cozy atmosphere, Chewies has quickly become one of the city's top seafood destinations.

Inspired by the owner's simple desire to create a place where he could enjoy great food with friends, It offers an inventive menu that features a variety of creative dishes. Among the standout options are their freshly shucked oysters, which are perfectly accompanied by lemon, horseradish, and red wine mignonette for a truly blissful flavor experience.

Another must-try item on the menu is their Humboldt calamari, thick-cut and fried to perfection. Served with a special cucumber jalapeno sauce, this dish offers an explosion of flavors that will leave you craving more.

As an oyster specialist, Chewies also showcases its New Orleans-inspired roots through a selection of Cajun and Creole fare, all served in an upbeat locale complete with a welcoming patio. This combination of mouthwatering food, friendly service, and inviting atmosphere has solidified Chewies' reputation in Vancouver.

Hydra Estiatorio, a chic downtown restaurant that offers a truly unparalleled dining experience. With its elegant Mediterranean décor, fish chandelier-adorned 40-foot cocktail bar, and excellent taste in music, Hydra Estiatorio provides a captivating atmosphere that perfectly complements its culinary delights.

At the heart of this dining haven is a commitment to serving the freshest seafood selections sourced directly from the sea and local sustainable farms. Chef-driven traditional dishes are given a modern twist, with time-honored ingredients elevating timeless Greek cuisine.

They have local and premium oyster options to choose from. And if you visit during the happy hour time 3 PM - 6 PM, you will get Daily Buck A Shuck promo!

The staff at Hydra Estiatorio are friendly and attentive, ensuring that every guest feels welcomed and well taken care of, from the moment they make a reservation to the last bite of their meal. Their culinary offerings are nothing short of extraordinary, with dishes such as juicy lamb chops and crunchy custard-filled desserts topped with a decadent chocolate pour delighting diners.

To further enhance your experience, be sure to try one of their exquisite lavender-scented cocktails, expertly crafted to perfectly complement your meal. With its combination of divine food, impeccable service, and a truly enchanting atmosphere.

Blue Water Cafe is an oyster lover's dream come true. With large, clear window panes providing stunning views of the lively neighborhood, this destination restaurant is renowned for its exceptional seafood offerings, featuring both local favorites and international delicacies infused with a Canadian twist.

Under the expert guidance of Executive Chef Frank Pabst, The restaurant's team of culinary artisans showcases an array of innovative dishes that celebrate the best of wild coast cuisine. One of their signature offerings is the Seafood Tower - two tiers, an impressive display of fresh seafood that will leave a lasting impression on any diner.

And if you have a bigger gathering at your table three tier Blue Water Cafe Tower filled with oysters, prawns, mussels, scallops, salmon tartar, lobster and more for sure will satisfy your cravings!

Another must-try is their mouthwatering sablefish dish, which expertly combines miso, edamame, shiitake mushrooms, and more to create a harmonious blend of flavors. Housed in a heritage warehouse space, It offers sustainable seafood with innovative touches that truly set it apart from other oyster restaurants in Vancouver.

If you're searching for fresh and tasty seafood in Vancouver, try this hidden gem on Commercial Drive - Harbour Oyster + Bar. This charming and intimate destination is renowned for its great quality delicious shellfish dishes, setting it apart from other establishments in the area.

Harbour Oyster takes the crown in the oyster world, thanks to their fresh produce, and masterfully crafted dishes.

Enjoy their mouthwatering lobster poutine and baked oyster Rockefeller, two delectable dishes that have delighted the taste buds of every diner fortunate enough to try them. Lobster Linguini, classic Fish n' Chips or Halibut Prawn Ceviche for sure to satisfy your seafood cravings a pair well with their fresh oyster selection!

Plus they have happy hour options available - with only $2 per oyster from 11 AM to 5 PM.

The restaurant is not only a fantastic selection of seafood dishes but also a warm and inviting atmosphere, complete with sidewalk seating for those who prefer to dine al fresco. With its combination of superb food, outstanding service, and a cozy setting, It’s an amazing and unique experience.

So, there you have it! Vancouver is the place to be for all you oyster lovers out there, with so many amazing options to choose from.