Chef’s Notes
Mason Bostwick · Executive Chef
Eastern oyster
La Saint Simon — La Saint Simon — Strong minerality — crisp and subtle sweetness. A solid farmed eastern oyster.
Flavor chart
Chef palate read
Shuckability
Shell & line performance
When I buy it
Look for La Saint Simon Oysters in peak season when salinity peaks.
How I serve it
On the half shell with minimal garnish — let the oyster speak.
What to watch for
Full brine with creamy finish. Reject any with broken shells or milky liquor.
My read
Strong minerality — crisp and subtle sweetness. A solid farmed eastern oyster.
La Saint Simon oysters, often referred to simply as Saint Simons, are a true treasure of the oyster world. These bivalves, known for their exquisite flavor and distinctive appearance, have been a favorite among oyster fans for generations. Hailing from the pristine waters of France’s Atlantic coast, specifically the Marennes-Oléron region, these oysters are celebrated for their unique blend of briny and sweet notes, accompanied by a rich, buttery finish.
Saint Simon oysters have green shell s from their nutrient-rich diet. As an oyster enthusiast and chef, curaCroysters are a perfect canvas for culinary creativity, showcasing their exceptional taste and beauty.
When working with La Saint Simon oysters, consider their size, meat-to-shell ratio, and flavor pairings to curate the best experience.Elevate the oysters’ natural attributes with dishes that provide a memorable dining experience. Oysters can elevate your cooking and delight guests. The Mallet family’s third-generation farm specializes in shellfish.
Eastern oyster
What Are La Saint Simon Oysters?
La Saint Simon Oysters are farmed Eastern oyster tied to La Saint Simon oysters. are from New Brunswick, Canada, and are grown in the Bay of Chaleur..
On the half shell the line reads Crisp + Subtle sweetness with salinity near 20–30 ppt.
How Did La Saint Simon Oysters Get Their Name?
La Saint Simon Oysters take their trade name from Chaleur Bay, which buyers see on tags and distributor manifests.
The family operates its oyster farm, engages in wholesale activities,. and manages its shellfish with like-minded growers.The farm is located in Shippagan,. New Brunswick, and grows La Saint Simon oysters using suspension culture in a well-protected. The Mallet family operates the largest commercial hatchery in Eastern Canada,. supplying not only their production but also supporting local growers. who share their values.
About the farm
The family operates its oyster farm, engages in wholesale activities, and manages its shellfish with like-minded growers.The farm is located in Shippagan, New Brunswick, and grows La Saint Simon oysters using suspension culture in a well-protected inlet. The Mallet family operates the largest commercial hatchery in Eastern Canada, supplying not only their production but also supporting local growers who share their values.
The family has diversified its operation through its oyster farm, wholesale activities, and shellfish hatchery. André Mallet, Livain’s son, is at the helm of the company, and with a third generation of the Mallet family represented by his sons Marc André and Martin, they are continuing their journey together with a thirst for knowledge and a love of oysters.
La Saint Simon Oysters Information
Oyster: La Saint Simon
Species: Crassosstrea Virginica
Cultivation Method: farmed, 48 – 60 month grow-out period
Seasonality: Year Round
Size: 2.25
Culture Method: Using suspension culture in a well-protected inlet. The oysters are reared in floating bags and on oyster tables from May to November. During this period, water temperatures may reach 25°C.
Salinity: 20 – 30 ppt
Appearance: Vivid emerald-green color of their shells. They have a rounded and plump shape. Their bodies are somewhat oval or tear-drop-shaped and tend to be moderately deep.
Flavor Profile: Characterized by a harmonious blend of saltiness and sweetness. These oysters offer a crisp, refreshing brine reminiscent of the ocean, complemented by a subtle, underlying sweetness that rounds out the taste experience.
Location
La Saint Simon oysters are from New Brunswick, Canada, and are grown in the Bay of Chaleur.
Suggested Beverage Pairings
- Negroni Sbagliato: This bubbly, lightly bitter cocktail pairs well with this type of oyster.
- Gin Martini: A low ABV and refreshing cocktail that complements the sweet, briny flavor of oysters.
- Muscadet: A classic pairing for oysters, muscadet is always bright and crisp, with plenty of green fruit notes such as lime, apples, pears, and lemons.
- Champagne: The yeasty, bready flavor of champagne adds depth to the pairing, and the bubbles provide a textural contrast against the smooth texture of oysters2.
- Guinness: The rich, creamy flavors of stouts can complement the briny taste of oysters, making them a good option for those who prefer beer.
- Sauternes: A classic pairing for oysters, Sauternes is a briny, salty, and sweet combination that can be a fun and experimental pairing.
- Viognier: A higher alcohol Viognier can balance the salty brine of the oyster, making it taste meatier and more substantial.
Where Can I Buy La Saint Simon Oysters?
- Pangea Shellfish Company: This online retailer offers La Saint Simon Oysters from Shippagan, New Brunswick, Canada. They describe these oysters as having a dynamic and sharp brine, supple meat, and a sweet, mineral finish.
- Local Restaurants and Oyster Bars: If you prefer to enjoy La Saint Simon Oysters at a restaurant, you can try the following establishments:
- Local Seafood Markets: Check with your local seafood markets to see if they carry La Saint Simon Oysters. These markets often have a variety of fresh oysters available for purchase.
References
- Pangea Shellfish Company. Vendor listing referenced in Where Can I Buy section. Accessed 30 May 2026.
- Local Restaurants and Oyster Bars. Vendor listing referenced in Where Can I Buy section. Accessed 30 May 2026.
- Local Seafood Markets. Vendor listing referenced in Where Can I Buy section. Accessed 30 May 2026.
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