Here’s Where to Go for the Best Briny Bites
Few things are more enticing than a dozen freshly shucked oysters on a bed of crushed ice. Traditionally, the months ending in “R” signal peak oyster season, when the briny bivalves are at their freshest and most flavorful. And here in Los Angeles, we’re lucky to have access to a wide range of oysters, from Pacific varieties sourced along the West Coast to coveted East Coast staples flown in daily.
The allure of oysters in “R months” ties back to their flavor, shaped by the “merroir” of the waters they call home. As temperatures drop, the cooler waters enhance their texture and salinity, creating that perfect briny balance. Pacific oysters from Baja and Washington offer a gentle, nuanced saltiness, while East Coast oysters pack a bolder, saltier punch.
Whether enjoyed raw on the half shell or paired with a crisp glass of white wine, oysters in “R months” feel like nature’s ultimate seasonal gift. So, let’s slurp some down, shall we? This is our guide to the best oyster bars and seafood in Los Angeles.
Queen St. Raw Bar & Grill
Step into Queen St., and you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to a chic bar straight out of the 1940s. Marble counters, stained glass and a U-shaped layout set the scene at this Eagle Rock gem from the team behind Found Oyster. This raw bar is pure magic, with Kumamotos chilling on ice and a never-ending flow of beaujolais at the walk-in-only counter. The chalkboard specials keep things fresh, and if you’re looking to impress, the uni- and caviar-topped oysters are a must. Nostalgic and delicious, this is where raw bar dreams come true.
Location: Eagle Rock
Dudley Market
At Dudley Market in Venice, seafood takes center stage—and much of it is caught by the restaurant’s own team on their fishing boat. While oysters are harder to reel in locally, the menu focuses on exceptional West Coast varieties paired with a zesty pepper-lime mignonette. The bright, airy space feels laid-back yet refined, with friendly service that keeps the vibe effortlessly cool. Snag a seat with a view of the water, order a natural wine and settle in for a Los Angeles seafood meal that feels quintessentially Californian.
Location: Venice
Found Oyster
Tucked into a narrow corner of East Hollywood, Found Oyster might lack ocean views, but its seafood is so fresh, you’d swear it’s coming straight from the water. With a menu highlighting pristine Santa Barbara spot prawns, meaty Maine scallops and Little Namskaket oysters from the GM’s family farm in Maine, this tiny oyster bar in loan Angeles is pure seafood bliss. Inside, you’ll find a cozy bar and a kitchen that works wonders with simplicity—think olive oil, yuzu kosho and a squeeze of lemon. Bonus: Their patio expansion offers more room to dive into a double order of their impossibly clean, briny oysters.
Location: East Hollywood
Crudo e Nudo
Crudo e Nudo in Santa Monica nails the balance between eco-conscious dining and pure indulgence. Dedicated to sustainability, the seafood market and restaurant sources locally and minimizes waste. This results in a thoughtful menu that’s as delicious as it is ethical. The oysters arrive garnished with kelp strands, purple wildflowers and a bright pink peppercorn limoncello mignonette. It’s casual, creative and effortlessly cool—a Los Angeles oyster bar perfect for a seafood date.
Location: Santa Monica
L&E Oyster Bar
Silver Lake’s L&E Oyster Bar is exactly what it claims to be. It’s a proper oyster bar, complete with an upstairs shucking station and a menu featuring the best from both coasts. The Wellfleet and Hood Island oysters are a splurge, but the quality is unmatched. The cocktails—a French 75 is our pick—pair perfectly with their briny bivalves. And during Happy Hour, you can snag a dozen or half-dozen at a discounted rate. This makes L&E a prime spot to get your oyster fix without breaking the bank.
Location: Silver Lake
Liv’s
Liv’s in Long Beach takes the humble oyster and lets it shine. The Belmont Shore spot serves up sweet and briny oysters, fried oyster Caesar salads and even chowder-topped fries. These choices are best enjoyed outside under the glow of string lights or inside at the wooden bar. Don’t miss their Social Hour (Wednesday-Friday from 2-6 p.m.), which is the perfect excuse to go all-in on shellfish decadence.
Location: Long Beach
Broad Street Oyster Company
Broad Street Oyster Company in Malibu has mastered the art of the seafood shack. Oysters, mussels, shrimp and more are served fresh over crushed ice in a casual setting that feels tailor-made for the sunny coast. Sit outside with the salty breeze, soak up the ocean vibes and dig into a world-class selection of oysters that taste like they were plucked straight from the Pacific.
Location: Malibu (+ Grand Central Market)
Rappahannock Oyster Bar
At Rappahannock Oyster Bar, the Chesapeake Bay comes to DTLA. Their Virginia-grown oysters—including the slightly sweet Rochambeau—are shipped straight from the restaurant’s own farm east of Richmond, ensuring every bite is fresh and flavorful. The shaded patio at the ROW DTLA provides a relaxed setting for oysters served with their standout kimchi mignonette, making this Los Angeles seafood restaurant a must-visit for anyone craving a taste of East Coast charm in the heart of LA.
Location: DTLA
