While Jackson Hole might be far from the sea, a few local eateries deliver fresh, flavorful oysters from top purveyors on both coasts. Here’s a look at how these local favorites bring this briny aphrodisiac to the mountains, as well as their unique spins on freshness, flavor and pairings.
The Bistro
The Bistro lets the freshest oysters shine by offering varieties that change weekly, such as guest favorites Rappahannock and Kumamoto. These oysters are sourced based on recommendations from their seafood purveyor, who ensures the highest quality. Each oyster is served on the half shell with traditional accompaniments, including a classic mignonette sauce and fresh lemon. For those seeking something more adventurous, The Bistro’s oyster shooters, like the bloody mary and michelada, add a bold twist.
Perfect Pairing: For an ideal pairing, The Bistro suggests a muscadet or Sancerre. For cocktail lovers, try their gin and tonic or a libation with blanco tequila.
Coe Tavern
At Coe Tavern, freshness is ensured by sourcing from three different purveyors on both the East and West coasts, with frequent deliveries throughout the week. With varieties ranging from delicate and sweet to silky and salty, oyster lovers will enjoy getting to try oysters of different sizes, tastes, and textures. Meanwhile, Coe Tavern enhances the traditional mignonette by using champagne vinegar, adding a subtle effervescence to the classic sauce.
Perfect Pairing: The Pillow Jets cocktail, a unique take on the French 75, is a refreshing choice. For wine enthusiasts, Coe Tavern recommends a glass of Loureiro from Portugal, a rare grape that brings out the briny notes of the oysters.
Local Restaurant & Bar
Local Restaurant & Bar prides itself on consistency, sourcing their oysters exclusively from Island Creek Oyster Company. This purveyor brings in East Coast varieties from Massachusetts to Maine, offering shallow-cupped oysters with a flavor profile that ranges from briny to sweet. During warmer months, Local switches to the West coast, sourcing meatier, less briny oysters from Hog Island, California. They prioritize freshness, with oysters arriving next day to ensure quality. Their oysters are served with cocktail sauce, mignonette, and lemon, and extras like saltine crackers, hot sauce, and fresh horseradish are available upon request.
Perfect Pairing: To amplify the oysters’ briny or sweet undertones, Local recommends a crisp chablis, light champagne, or even a dirty martini for a full-on brine experience.
These three spots bring the essence of the ocean to Jackson Hole, each in their own style, letting locals and visitors alike experience coastal flavors right here in the mountains. Whether you’re craving East or West coast oysters, Jackson Hole has something for every seafood lover to savor.
