Although National Oyster Day doesn’t fall until August 5th, the Original Oyster House will commemorate oysters beginning July 1st in an American Oyster Celebration which spotlights fresh Gulf oysters in a variety of delectable dishes. Many locals may know the vital economic and environmental benefits oysters bring to our area, but what most people may not know is the role oysters had played in American History.
Recorded history of the New England settlements indicated a passion for oysters. Oysters were so sought and plentiful in colonial times that they were shipped back to Europe from America. During the early 1800s, oysters were eaten by wealthier people except in local harvesting areas. But by the mid to late 1800s when production surged, all economic levels enjoyed oysters because they cost less than poultry and other meats. Love of oysters inspired early Americans to transform them into culinary desserts. Mark Twain claimed his favorite ice cream flavor was oyster as a mention in his book The Adventures of Tom Sawyer.
While some more popular oysters were transplanted from place to place in the 19th Century, oysters were able to keep pace with the demand. Today, the fate of the edible oyster relies on science, mankind and the environment. So as you join the American Oyster Celebration don’t forget that oysters are steeped in history and share a culinary moment with our colonial ancestors.
Several features on the American Oyster Celebration menu include Joe & Dave’s Favorite which combines garlic cocktail sauce, applewood smoked bacon crumbles and Parmesan cheese. Gulf oysters are considered some of the tastiest in the world so if you never tried them, you can’t beat Gulf oysters on a half shell, an Original Oyster House signature.
The Original Oyster House has become the “must-go-to” place for great fresh Gulf seafood, service and southern hospitality and for its panoramic waterfront sunsets. A top-spot for hand-shucked and fire-grilled oysters (Causeway location), the Original Oyster House has also become legendary for its homemade gumbo, cheesy grits with blackened shrimp as well as handcrafted desserts including its famous peanut butter chocolate chip pie. Patrons, employees and children are welcomed as family. Known as an employer of choice, Original Oyster House has long-time, loyal employees who value family, integrity and great service. Consistently earning high marks in customer satisfaction, Original Oyster House’s mission is to exceed customer’s expectations and to give back to the community.
The Original Oyster House has two locations, Mobile: 3733 Battleship Parkway, on the Causeway and Gulf Shores: 701 Hwy 59 on the Original Oyster House Boardwalk. Both locations offer spectacular waterfront views, private party rooms and have been celebrated as the area’s finest family restaurants for the past 32 years. The Original Oyster House is managed by Superb Foods, a management company of Geez Louise Boutique, OOH Trading Company and Joe & Dave’s Sauces and Seasonings. For more information about Original Oyster House, visit www.originaloysterhouse.com or call 251-928-2620.