Details To Confirm Before You Order A Platter Of Oysters

There are all sorts of appetizers that you can order when you visit a seafood restaurant for a late-night dining experience, but one of the most popular options is to get a platter of oysters for the table. Served in the half shell over crushed ice, oysters are a tasty and nutritious way to get your seafood meal underway. It can be worthwhile to confirm a few details about the oysters that you plan to order. Seafood eateries typically have all sorts of oysters available, and many patrons enjoy making requests so that their platter is exactly how they want it to be. Here are some details to discuss with your server.

Sizes

Oysters are available in many different sizes, and while there are lots of things that can influence how big an oyster is, the region from which they're harvested often plays a role. Some seafood aficionados love big oysters, while others love those that are smaller. Take a quick survey of your dining partners to see how people feel. There's nothing wrong with ordering a platter that features both small and large oysters, as this will ensure that everyone can find something they enjoy.

Flavors

The flavor of oysters can vary significantly based on where they're from. Some oysters have a rich, buttery taste, others have pronounced salty notes, and others have somewhat of an earthy taste — even though they come from the sea. A lot of people who have experience with oysters have specific flavor preferences. For example, some people favor oysters that have a buttery flavor rather than a briny one. If everyone in your group has a similar mindset, you can order oysters that have one or two specific flavors to them.

Condiments

There are all sorts of condiments that people enjoy with their oysters. A lot of seafood restaurants simply serve their platters of oysters with lemon juice and cocktail sauce, but you can certainly ask your server what other options are available to ensure that they're added to your platter. A popular choice is mignonette sauce, which features red wine vinegar and finely diced onions. Those at your table who enjoy spice might want some hot sauce, although they'll need to be careful to avoid overpowering the subtle oyster flavor notes with too much heat. Some restaurants have unique in-house sauces that your server can describe to you. Look online to find a late-night seafood restaurant that serves oysters — such as Down The Hatch Maui.