Alley Cat Oyster Bar
Why we love it: If you’re giving oysters a try for the first time, head to this Flats East Bank spot where chef and owner Zack Bruell offers several preparations of the bivalves. “Not only can you get oysters on the half shell, but you can get them cooked or prepared in dishes and served warm,” he says. Try this: From Cape Cod, Massachusetts, Moon Rise ($2.95 each) has a mineral taste and pairs well with Alley Cat’s classic mignonette and cocktail sauce. 1056 Old River Road, Cleveland, 216-574-9999, alleycatoysterbar.com
Coquette Patisserie
Why we love it: This cozy Uptown bakery and wine bar offers three of our favorite things: desserts, Champagne and oysters. “I think when you can eat food in its purest form, there’s a sexiness to that,” says co-owner Shane Culey. Try this: Oysters on the half shell ($2.50 each) paired with mignonette and finely chopped cucumbers or apples. 11607 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, 216-331-2841, coquettepatisserie.com
Grove Hill
Why we love it: While you’ll find around eight to 12 rotating oysters here, the accompanying house-made hot sauce remains a constant. “It has lemon and horseradish in it,” says chef and owner Tim Bando. “It’s like a bloody mary but has a little more of a kick.” Try this: From the West Coast, Compass Point oysters ($18 for 6, $36 for 12) have a fresh melon flavor. 25 Pleasant Drive, Chagrin Falls, 440-247-4800, grovehillchagrin.com
Kingfish
Why we love it: Executive chef Marc Standen knows a lot about seafood. In addition to his extensive menu of salmon and catfish entrees, he expertly selects the best oysters from both coasts. “The water the oyster actually grows in has a lot to do with its flavor,” he says. “The oyster will pick up a lot of minerals from the water they’re growing in.” Try this: Blue Point oysters ($15 half dozen, $25 dozen) served with a cranberry mignonette. 115 Montrose West Ave., Copley, 330-777-2005, kingfishakron.com
Lure Bistro
Why we love it: It’s OK to experiement with oysters and have a little fun with its toppings. “We’ve done caviar, cocktail relishes, classic style with lemon and hot sauce,” says chef and owner Jaret Havanchak. “We have even done sorbets and such on the oysters.” Try this: Oyster shooters ($5 each) are accompanied by house-made jalapeno infused vodka and a spicy cocktail sauce. 38040 Third St., Willoughby, 440-951-8862, lure-bistro.com
