If you’ve never eaten oysters before, you’re in for a treat; however, you might feel intimidated looking at a seafood restaurant’s menu. What difference does it make where the oysters come from? When they arrive, how are you supposed to consume them gracefully? Put your mind at ease with the guide below, which walks you through everything from ordering to enjoying oysters.

How to Eat Raw Oysters & Look Like You Know What You’re Doing

1. Order a Variety

Like wine, oysters are enjoyed for the nuanced flavors they derive from the region they’re raised in. Factors such as water temperature, salinity, and the algae they’re around make up their ‘merroir,’ the unique regional flavor palate.

Many seafood restaurants pride themselves on serving oysters from unique locales, so you can experience a range of tastes. In general, aim for six oysters per person, and consider getting three or four different varieties to sample.

2. Mind the Etiquette

Using the small fork provided, loosen the oyster from its shell, so it slides into your mouth easily. While some people prefer to swallow oysters whole, you’ll get the most flavor if you chew. Also, drink the ‘oyster liquor,’ the briny liquid left in the shell. Its salinity will enhance the flavors of the oysters.

3. Pair It

Oysters pair beautifully with a wide range of sauces and drinks. Many people enjoy the refreshing bubbliness of champagne when they’re feasting on oysters. Dry white wine also provides a clean acidity to cleanse your palate between oysters.

To top your oysters, consider a squeeze of lemon, hot sauce, or mignonette, a compote made of pepper, red wine vinegar, and shallots.

For delicious oysters and seafood in Honolulu, visit Atlantis Seafood & Steak. With a menu that features surf and turf favorites, they serve shellfish like mussels, scallops, and oysters, locally caught fish, and lobster and crab from their live tanks. To browse their menu, visit their website, and call (808) 922-6868 to inquire about their daily seafood selection.