Narragansett Bay Oysters

Narragansett Bay oysters are wild oysters harvested from the waters of Narragansett Bay, a large estuary in Rhode Island and Massachusetts. The oysters have a long and rich history, dating back to the Native Americans who used them as a food source and a currency. The colonists also prized Narragansett Bay oysters, which were exported to Europe and other parts of America.

Narragansett Bay oysters are known for their mild flavor and low salinity, which reflect the conditions of their habitat. Narragansett Bay is influenced by freshwater and saltwater sources, creating a brackish environment that varies in temperature and salinity throughout the year. These oysters tend to be long and flat, with shallow cups, due to the challenges of growing on the bottom of the bay.

Narragansett Bay oysters are available year-round but are especially abundant in the fall and winter when the water is colder and cleaner. They harvested by local diggers and farmers, who use dredges or hand-picks to collect them from the bay. Narragansett Bay Lobsters, Inc. is one of the leading seafood providers in the area, offering fresh lobster and shellfish, including our oysters, to restaurants and markets that demand the highest quality and service.

About Narragansett Bay Oysters

These oysters can be wild and farmed. Here is what the search results say about the topic:

• Wild Oysters: Rhode Island Monthly reported that Narragansett Bay considers wild oysters to be endangered.However, the report notes that wild oysters could thrive again as water quality improves. Another source states that wild oysters no longer exist in Narragansett Bay.
• Farmed Oysters: Oyster farming is a growing industry in Narragansett Bay. Some oyster farms are located in upper Narragansett Bay, while others are in different areas. Oyster farming helps to rebuild oyster populations and improve water quality.

Narragansett Bay Oysters

Oyster: Narragansett Bay

Species: Crassotrea Virginica

Cultivation Method:

Farmed: mostly suspended bags or cages, but some farm use other methods or a combination.

Wild: Commercial harvesting of them was once permitted, but due to their endangered status, all harvesting is now off limits.

Seasonality: Year Round

Size: 2.5 – 3″

Culture Method: Bottom Culture

Salinity: 32-35 ppt

Appearance: long and flat shells with shallow cups due to the challenges of growing on the bottom of the bay. They are light brown or gray, with some green or purple hues.

Flavor Profile: Strong brine with a creamy Umami finish. Tender meat; clean, sweet, and light in flavor

Location

There are several farms that grow these oysters. Here are a few some specific examples:

1. Ocean State Shellfish Cooperative – This cooperative consists of thirteen oyster farms based in four distinct waterways in Rhode Island, including Narragansett Bay.
2. Saltwater Farms – This farm operates in Narragansett Bay and Rhode Island Sound.
3. Bluff Hill Cove Oyster Company – This family-run boutique oyster farm is located in the pristine tidal waters of Point Judith Pond in Narragansett, Rhode Island.

It’s worth noting that there are many other farms, but these are a few specific examples.There are even more posted on the map down below!

Suggested Beverage Pairings

1. Champagne or other dry sparkling wines – This is a classic pairing for oysters. The crisp and bright flavor of champagne complements the briny taste of oysters.
2. Muscadet – This white wine is high in acidity and minerality, making it an excellent pairing for high-salinity Atlantic oysters.
3. Guinness or other stouts – Dark beers like Guinness pair well with oysters. The roasted malt flavor of the beer complements the briny taste of the oysters.
4. Margarita -A mixture of lime juice, tequila, and olive oil drizzled over shucked oysters makes a delicious sauce to accompany your oysters.
5. Beer – Beer is a refreshing beverage that pairs well with oysters. Schlafly Beer even hosts a Stout & Oyster Festival that showcases the pairing.
6. Vodka – The process of making Ostreida involves infusing vodka with oysters, making it an excellent complement to oysters.

Where to Buy Narragansett Bay Oysters

1. Narragansett Bay Lobsters, Inc.: They have a year-round supply of shellfish and procure directly from local diggers. You can find their products on their website.
2. Farm-2-Market: They offer Oysters from East Passage, Narragansett Bay, Rhode Island, in different quantities. You can purchase these oysters from their website.
3. American Mussel Harvesters: They offer Oysters, which are delicious Ocean State brine oysters that support a great cause. You can purchase these oysters from their website.
4. Matunuck Oyster Bar: They offer West Passage Oysters, farm-raised in West Passage, Narragansett Bay, RI. These oysters have a full oceanic mineral saltiness with a thick umami finish. You can purchase these oysters from their website.
5. Ocean State Shellfish Cooperative: They provide the freshest, highest quality Northeast oysters all year round. You can order their oysters on their website, but please note that prices are for pickup only, and delivery orders will include shipping and handling.