Few ingredients enjoy the cultural and social cachet that Oysters do. Synonymous with luxury, these delicate and briny morsels from the ocean have become an emblem of celebration in the UK and beyond. In coastal cities like Whitstable, they are celebrated with annual festivals and eaten fresh from the sea, while in the finest restaurants in London, New York, Paris and elsewhere they are served theatrically on a platter of ice, variously seasoned with a squeeze of Lemon, splash of Tabasco or Shallot Dressing. If an occasion calls for Oysters, you know you’re in for a good time.
History of Oysters in British Cuisine
A lot of the way we think about Oysters today can be traced back to the Ancient Romans, who loved them so much when they landed on our shores that they decided to take them home with them, often transporting them over huge distances. Fast-forward to the Middle Ages and Oysters became more mainstream as a staple part of a coastal diet, alongside Clams and Cockles, thanks to their plentiful nature. There was another boom in their popularity during the Victorian period, with the elite now able to eat them up and down the country thanks to new transportation methods. The way we view Oysters today is thanks to our rich history with them: they’re both a thoroughly English dish, and a true delicacy.
Why Oysters Are a Sunday Icon at Cubitt House
As a traditional English institution, it is a no-brainer for Cubitt House to specialise in Oysters, offering them at multiple locations across the capital. In fact, we love them so much, they’ve earned our highly-coveted ‘Icon’ status, making them one of our hero menu items. After all, they aren’t only a nod to the British seaside and one of our nation’s culinary traditions, but they’re also incredibly versatile too. Whether you want one as a delicate starter, a celebratory treat or just the perfect pairing with champagne (or English sparkling wine) – Oysters are always a good idea. And we’re dedicated to ensuring ours are the very best available, prioritising quality, seasonality and provenance above all else.
Where to Eat Oysters in Notting Hill: The Princess Royal
The Princess Royal, our beautiful Notting Hill pub, is known for its ‘raw and cured’ dishes, with Chalk Stream Trout Crudo and Seared Tuna being especially popular. It goes without saying that Oysters get their moment in the spotlight too, available to order singly or as a half dozen, and served with a choice of zesty Shallot Mignonette or smoked Cucumber Pickle. With its romantic, classic interiors, it’s a great spot for an amorous tête-à-tête after a day spent wandering Portobello’s cobbled streets, or a boisterous celebration with friends on a special occasion.
Oysters and Sunday Roasts at The Grazing Goat, Marylebone
Then there’s The Grazing Goat, where Oysters make for a great prelude to a hearty roast dinner. Our country pub in the heart of Marylebone, it’s the quintessential English boozer with cosy dining rooms and a convivial atmosphere. We love sharing half a dozen Seasonal Oysters with friends and family before devouring slow-roasted Leg of Lamb or Angus Beef Rump with all the trimmings on a Sunday – elevating an already thoroughly celebratory occasion in our eyes.
Where to Enjoy Oysters in Belgravia: The Orange, Pimlico
Perhaps nowhere feels more appropriate for Oysters than The Orange, with its brasserie-style interiors giving it a slightly more cosmopolitan feel. An ideal pitstop to refuel and refresh after a day spent in nearby Belgravia, choose Oysters as one of your sharing snack plates to start, or simply have one with a crisp, dry Martini – the perfect pairing – especially on a date or weekend catch-up with friends.
Oysters for London Private Hire Events, Parties and Celebrations
Of course, Oysters are most often associated with celebrations, which is another reason we serve them. All of our pubs have incredible hosting spaces, including private dining rooms and bars, with the option for Private Hire too, making them a great choice if you’re toasting a graduation, milestone birthday, engagement, wedding, new baby – whatever. You bring the vibes, we’ll bring the Oyster shucker.
Book a Table to Try Oysters in London at Cubitt House
And for anyone who hasn’t savoured the joys of an Oyster yet – never fear. Our unintimidating pubs are the perfect place to initiate yourself with their delights – it sure beats a snooty restaurant, after all.
Sound good? Book your table now to indulge in the ultimate Cubitt House Oyster experience – you won’t regret it.
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