Best Oyster Spots in Coral Gables 

Sospiro Wine Bar’s half dozen Blackberry oysters from Virginia ($15 during happy hour; $24 on the regular menu) can be ordered raw or baked. We opted for half and half because, why choose? The raw oysters were lightly salty, with a subtle buttery sweetness; a classic mignonette added just enough acidity. The baked oysters, topped with golden breadcrumbs and parmesan, leaned warm and savory. The parmesan brought a nutty, salty richness, the breadcrumbs a gentle crunch to contrast the tender oyster. 

2310 Ponce de Leon Blvd.

There’s something about sliding into Bouchon’s polished bar – softly lit with that unmistakable brasserie hum – that makes ordering oysters feel fancy. Their oysters, sourced from Wareham, Massachusetts, arrive briny at first bite, with a rush of clean ocean salinity. Then comes a subtle sweetness, followed by a dense, meaty texture. These aren’t delicate afterthoughts; they’re satisfying, substantial oysters meant to be savored. During happy hour, they’re just $2 each; at lunch and dinner, a half dozen runs $34.

2101 Galiano St.

While this Ecuadorian restaurant specializes in crab, it also offers oysters on its regular menu. The oysters here are from the James River, which feeds into Virginia’s Chesapeake Bay. Because they come from inland waters (rather than ocean shore), these James River oysters are slightly sweet rather than salty, mild and meaty with a slightly earthy flavor. On the regular menu they’re $22 for a half dozen, but during happy hour they’re just $1 each.

232 Miracle Mile

Overlooking Giralda Plaza, Cebada Rooftop is known for its rustic Spanish cuisine, but it also has a solid raw bar selection, including oysters. Sourcing east coast oysters from the James River, Cebada adds its own Gallic twist with a dash of green apple mignonette, a tangy condiment made from finely diced Granny Smith apples, minced shallots, and cider vinegar. A half dozen will cost you $22, unless you’re there during happy hour ($12). 

124 Giralda Ave.

Part of what makes eating oysters at Sea Grill enjoyable is the restaurant’s scale — high ceilings in the bright interior with a vast patio outside at the Shops at Merrick Park. Sea Grill is Mediterranean seafood focused, but we forgive them for sourcing their oysters from Massachusetts; they are fresh and well-sized, arriving tableside with a shot-bottle of Tabasco, a Meyer lemon, and their red wine mignonette sauce. $20 for six, $26 for a dozen. 

4250 Salzedo St.