Life
Each of these Oyster worthy restaurants has built a loyal following among seafood aficionados in the city.
With Dubai being known as the land for Caviar and Oysters, there’s no dearth of fine-dining restaurants providing the same.
As a much-loved delicacy since ancient times, Oysters have gained a badge of prestige when served at the dinner table.
The History
As oysters grow in shallow waters and could be easily picked up, it was easier to collect oysters and shellfish than to hunt for meat. Over a decade ago, archaeologists exploring a cave in South Africa uncovered evidence of shellfish dinners enjoyed by humans from 164,000 years ago. This demonstrates how early of a role oysters played in early society and survival. Oysters were a delicacy for the wealthy class during the Greek (13th-9th BCE) and Roman empires (8th BCE-5th AD). They were so important to the Greeks that the Greek became the first to cultivate oysters. It then became an important part of the process, that the shell of oysters were even used to cast ballots in the voting process.
In modern cuisine
Today, oysters are a beloved food item all over the world. They are enjoyed in a variety of dishes, from raw oysters on the half shell to grilled oysters with garlic butter. They are also a popular ingredient in seafood stews and chowders and are often used to add flavour to other dishes.
How did it begin?
World Oyster Day, celebrated annually on August 5, is a day dedicated to appreciating and enjoying oysters, a popular seafood delicacy. The exact origins of National Oyster Day are not well-documented, but it is likely that the day was created by the oyster industry or seafood enthusiasts to promote the consumption and awareness of oysters.
To celebrate in Dubai, a myriad of fine-dining havens have special offers and sought-after Oysters that are beyond mouth-watering.
Alici
Located on the stunning Bluewaters Island, Alici is renowned for its sophisticated Mediterranean seafood and breathtaking views. Guests can indulge in exquisite Southern Italian dishes while taking in an epic panorama of the Marina skyline. In commemoration of World Oyster Day, Alici is delighted to offer 3 oysters for Dhs49, extended for the entire week from August 5th to 11th. Guests can embrace this limited-time offer by savoring the delicate taste of exquisite oysters from Alici’s crudo bar, available for both lunch and dinner.
Above Eleven
Above Eleven is inviting guests to enjoy fresh, high-quality oysters priced at just Dhs 10 each. From August 5 to 9, 2024, Above Eleven will be celebrating World Oyster Day. Perfectly paired with a crisp glass of bubbly, guests can enjoy this classic pairing against the stunning backdrop of Dubai’s skyline. Whether a seafood connoisseur or just looking for an indoor dining destination to beat the heat, Above Eleven promises an unforgettable experience. Located at Marriot Resort Palm Jumeirah, the offer is valid from 6pm to 11:30pm.
OKKU
With an emphasis on locally sourced and sustainable produce, enjoy freshly shucked Dibba Bay Oysters at OKKU, a homegrown Japanese fine-dining restaurant. Paired with either a delicious ponzu dressing, a squeeze of lime juice or a dash of Tabasco hot sauce, these delectable oysters are a must try at OKKU. Additionally, if you’re looking for unlimited servings of fresh oysters, then look no further than OKKU’s recently launched Disco Brunch. The Oysters are priced at Dhs180 for 6 pieces and Dhs325 for 12 pieces.
Jara By Martin Berasategui
At Jara by Martín Berasategui, diners are invited to feast on lightly charcoal grilled oysters, where each bite is a perfect balance of smoky flavour from the grill and fresh ocean taste. By giving traditional oysters an innovative twist, guests can indulge in oysters served with Chef Martín Berasategui’s signature gazpacho, effortlessly combining the briny flavour of fresh oysters with chilled gazpacho.
The MAINE Oyster Bar & Grill
With three Dubai outposts (Business Bay, JBR, and Studio City) and a touring Fish Taco truck, MAINE’s Raw Bar anchors the rooms, featuring a selection of fresh fish, king crab, shrimp, scallops, live lobsters, and, of course, oysters – or, as their website puts it, “oysters galore!” All served with Tabasco, fresh horseradish and a selection of mignonettes. As an expression of his North American roots, MAINE Founder Joey Ghazal is serving up a slice of culinary nostalgia for those longing for an honest dining experience devoid of pretentiousness or gimmickry. Blending a post-industrial brasserie aesthetic and meat-packing vibe, the room has a retro-vintage feel with a laid-back New England Extravagance.
