Given our beachy lifestyles, it’s no surprise that us bayside dwellers love seafood- in particular, an oyster or two. Luckily for us, we have many special spots where you can shuck and suck back these creamy, salty shells of deliciousness any way you like.

Ahead of World Oyster Day on 5 August, we’re taking a look at just some of the local oyster bars, shellfish specials and seafood saloons around our southside suburbs where you can celebrate all the varieties of these mollusc delicacies  - as if you needed an excuse!

Bleakhouse Hotel

Established in 1883, this gorgeous pub is a favourite amongst thirsty locals and bayside revellers alike. For the oyster lovers, every Friday they serve $2.50 natural oysters and $35 cocktail jugs if you need something refreshing to wash them down. With views over Port Phillip Bay, this is a stunning spot to get your oyster on.

Where: 97 Beaconsfield Parade Albert Park 3206

Instagram | Facebook | Website| Image: Bleakhouse Hotel

Bistro Volière

St Kilda’s ‘little piece of Paris’ is serving up $2 oysters and $16 champagne every Friday and Saturday evening between 5 pm and 7 pm or, as the French would say, “Le Cinq à Sept”. The informal expression refers to what could be considered a very French version of Happy Hour: the two hour period after work when people meet up with their lovers before going home to their spouses. Alternatively, champagne with oysters is another great option.

Where: 129 Fitzroy Street, St Kilda, 3182

Instagram | Facebook | Website | Image: Bistro Volière

Post Office Club Hotel

Speaking of Happy Hour, from Wednesday to Sunday, between 4 pm and 6 pm, the Post Office Club Hotel is slinging fresh shucked oysters for $3.50! This iconic establishment has been looking after it’s locals with welcoming service, great food and comfortable atmosphere since 1871. Add in oysters, $8 beer and wines, plus cocktail specials and you have yourself the perfect evening.

Where: 306 St Kilda Road, St Kilda 3182

Instagram | Website | Image: Post Office Club Hotel

Blue Tongue Wine Bar

With a seafood range that is hand-selected daily and an exceptional wine list, this is the spot for fresh oysters and maybe a Chablis to match. Located right in the heart of Elwood Village, Blue Tongue Wine Bar provides only the freshest, locally-sourced, sustainable seafood, with an assortment of the best local wines and drops from famous regions around the globe.

Where: 62 - 64 Ormond Road, Elwood, 3184

Instagram | Facebook | Website | Image: Blut Tongue Wine Bar

Oyster Bar by Aptus Seafood

The Oyster Bar by Aptus Seafood is the newest addition to the Aptus family. With a daily selection of sustainable oysters and an arrangement of delicious seafood options, this boisterous little stall is located in the West Aisle at South Melbourne Market. 

Where: South Melbourne Market, Coventry St & Cecil Street, South Melbourne VIC 3205

Instagram | Facebook | Website | Image: Aptus Seafood

The Graham Hotel

The Graham Hotel has an impressive menu of modern Australian grub and pub classics, including, of course those icons of the oceans – oysters. Complemented by an extensive wine list of varietals from near and far, this modern venue is steeped in history, good food and good times.

Where: 97 Graham Street, Port Melbourne 3207

Instagram | Facebook | Website | Image: The Graham Hotel

Ripponlea Fish Supply

Looking for something a little more low-key or like to shuck at home? Ripponlea First Supply is a family owned and run business serving up wild and responsibly sourced, sustainable seafood. And yes- they have oysters! Open 6 days a week, they also have a selection of fresh cooked food to take home too.

Where: 49 Glen Eira Road, Ripponlea, 3185

Facebook | Website | Image: Ripponlea Fish Supply

Recycle your shells!

Since 2017, South Melbourne Market has partnered with The Nature Conservancy on a shell recycling project to aid in rebuilding the lost shellfish reefs of Port Phillip Bay. They collect oyster, scallop and mussel shells and use them to restore shellfish reefs across southern Australia. If you’re near the market, drop your mollusc shells in the dedicated black bins.

Find out more about the program here | Image: Tony Jupp

With so many incredible places dedicated to delicious, fresh food and crisp, cleansing drinks, our neighbourhoods are your oyster! So get out there, explore and let us know what pearls you find.