Pelican Reef Oysters

Pelican Reef oysters are farm-raised oysters from Cedar Key, Florida. These oysters are grown in trays or cages suspended in the water in Pelican Reef, named after the beautiful location where they are cultivated in pristine waters. These oysters have a history closely tied to the Cedar Key Seafarms. The company raises shellfish in a spring-fed estuary within the Gulf of Mexico near Florida’s Big Bend. They are one of the first oyster farms in Florida, indicating a pioneering role in the state’s oyster aquaculture.

These oysters have a history closely tied to the Cedar Key Seafarms. The company raises shellfish in a spring-fed estuary within the Gulf of Mexico near Florida’s Big Bend. They are one of the first oyster farms in Florida, indicating a pioneering role in the state’s oyster aquaculture.

Pelican Reef Oysters stand out among Gulf oysters due to their unique cultivation in the spring-fed estuary waters off Cedar Key, Florida. Tray-raising is the method used to grow these oysters, which allows them to cultivate in suspended trays or cages, giving them a unique flavor, as opposed to the traditional method of bottom cultivation. The warm waters of the Florida Keys impart a perfect level of saltiness and pronounced creaminess to Pelican Reef Oysters.

About Cedar Key Seafarms

Cedar Key, a small island community in the Gulf of Mexico, has a rich history in the seafood industry. For most of the 20th century, it was a sleepy fishing village. In the late 1990s, the community realized that they had exhausted sustainable fishing methods in Cedar Key. As a result, they facilitated a transition towards shellfish aquaculture.

In 2000, people had dedicated 950 acres to lease for aqua farming clams, and by 2010, they had increased it to over 1350 acres. Today, the clam business is a $50 million resource. We have seeded the depleted oyster beds with an oyster species known as Eastern oysters, which can mature in two years. This new industry is flourishing, and Cedar Key is again becoming a significant player in the oyster business.

Cedar Key Seafarms started farm-raising their “Pelican Reef Oysters” in 2012. Renowned oyster expert Rowan Jacobsen has praised the company for producing high-quality oysters and rated the Pelican Reef oysters as 4 out of 5 stars.

The company’s current status reflects a successful operation that has helped sustain the local economy and provided regional jobs. Cedar Key Seafarms is part of a seafood heritage that values sustainable practices and the production of high-quality shellfish. The company’s practices, such as using a system of long line ropes and an electric winch for harvesting, demonstrate a commitment to efficiency and environmental stewardship.

You can reach Cedar Key Seafarms on their official Facebook page, Instagram, or company website.

Pelican Reef Oyster Information

Name: Pelican Reef

Species: Crassostrea Virginica

Cultivation Method: Farmed for 12-24 months

Culture Method: Off-bottom cages

Seasonality: Oct-Apr

Size: 2-3″ (cocktail size)     3-4″ (select size)

Salinity: 25-30 ppt

Appearance: Classic teardrop shape and a deep cup. They have a rippled shell with fluted edges often tinged with green or brown.

Flavor Profile: Briny, buttery, and slightly sweet, with a clean, crisp finish

Location

The growers cultivate Pelican Reef oysters in the crystal-clear waters off the coast of Cedar Key, Florida. They have named these oysters after the stunning Pelican Reef, where they flourish.

Suggested Beverage Pairings

1. Samuel Adams Boston Lager – This lager is known for its balance of malt sweetness and hop bitterness. The caramel notes from the malt can complement the sweetness of the Pelican Reef oysters, while the hop bitterness can cut through the oyster’s brininess, making it a refreshing pairing.
2. Santa Margherita Pinot Grigio – This wine is crisp, dry, and has a bright acidity, which can balance the saltiness of the oysters. Its subtle fruit flavors can also enhance the natural sweetness of the oysters, making it a harmonious pairing.
3. Domaine William Fèvre Chablis Premier Cru – This Chablis is known for its minerality and high acidity, which can complement the brininess of the oysters and highlight their sweet flavor.
4. Tio Pepe Fino Sherry – This dry and pale Spanish coastal wine pairs well with the oyster’s salt brine and earthy tones. Its nutty and yeasty flavors can add complexity to the pairing.
5. Kendall-Jackson Vintner’s Reserve Chardonnay – This Chardonnay, with its rich, buttery flavor and notes of tropical fruit, can complement the creamy texture and sweet flavor of the oysters, especially if they are cooked or served with a rich sauce.
6. Classic Martini – A classic martini, with its clean, crisp flavors, can balance the rich, briny flavor of the oysters. The gin or vodka in the martini can cleanse the palate, while the dry vermouth can complement the oyster’s sweetness.
7. Bloody Mary – The spicy and savory flavors of a Bloody Mary can contrast the sweet and salty oysters. The tomato juice and spices in the cocktail can enhance the oyster’s flavor, making it a bold and exciting pairing.
8. Margarita: A classic margarita, with its tart lime flavor and salted rim, can enhance the natural saltiness of the oysters. The tequila in the margarita can also add a warm, earthy flavor that complements the oyster.

Where Can I Buy Pelican Reef Oysters?

1. Cedar Key Seafarms – We recommend contacting Cedar Key Seafarms directly for information on where their oysters are available for purchase. You can reach Cedar Key Seafarms on their official Facebook page, Instagram, or company website.
2. Publix Online – Publix has pelican reef oysters listed on their online shop. After selecting a local store, you can see if they are available in your area.