Oyster lovers, get ready to shuck once again! The annual DTLA Oyster Festival is back this weekend after a long five year hiatus. From Saturday, Nov. 16 to Sunday, Nov. 17, visitors can slurp tasty oysters at The Grand Central Market from 11:00 am – 6:00 pm each day.
Oysters Presented like a Fine Wine
The DTLA Oyster Festival is organized by The Oyster Gourmet and The Grand Central Market. The DTLA Oyster Festival will bring together oyster farmers from across the country alongside a curated selection of French wines.
The Oyster Gourmet owner, Christophe Happillon, is the Maitre Écailler (Shellfish Master) of Los Angeles. And he presents “oysters like a sommelier would present a fine wine to create a dynamic fusion between terroir and merroir.”
Oyster Habitat
Merroir is the sea version of terroir that is directly related to oysters. Of course, terroir describes “the various influences from soil, climate, altitude that contribute to the unique character of wine grapes grown in a particular area.” Nothing affects the flavor of oysters more than its habitat. Thus, merroir is a very important aspect to consider when choosing the best oysters.
Oyster Pricing Information
Entry to the DTLA Oyster Festival is always free. Oysters will be priced at:
- 3 for $9
- 6 for $18
- 12 for $36
And of course, you can’t enjoy delicious oysters without sipping delectable wine. You can pair wine with your oysters for only $10 a glass.
Environmental Awareness
Many of the delicious oysters this year are provided by the Bates Family from Alaska. They were nominated as “Alaska’s Farm Family of year 2020” in recognition of “their hard work and deep connection with their environment that embody the resilience and resourcefulness of the spirit of Alaska.”
Additionally, the DTLA Oyster Festival is also very conscious of their role in environmental care and connection. So they are partnering with Orange County Coastkeeper who will recycle the oyster’s shells in order to restore the seashore. You can get more information at the festival about their positive impact on marine life through the tremendous work they have been doing.
📅 Dates: Nov. 16 – 17 from 11:00 am – 6:00 pm
📍 Location: The Grand Central Market (317 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA)