Got an Oyster Craving? Here’s Where to Buy a Bushel of Fresh Oysters in Jacksonville

As a seafood lover living in Jacksonville, I’m always on the hunt for the freshest oysters I can get my hands on. There’s nothing quite like the briny taste of a freshly shucked oyster, especially when paired with a squeeze of lemon and dash of hot sauce.

When I’m planning an oyster feast, I need more than just a dozen or two I want a whole bushel to feed my family and friends But where can you actually buy quality oysters by the bushel in Jacksonville?

In this article I’ll share the best places to purchase fresh oysters in bulk from seafood markets to restaurants and farmer’s markets. I’ll also give tips on what to look for when buying oysters and how to prep and serve them at home. Let’s get shucking!

Seafood Markets Offer Oysters by the Bushel

One of the best places to buy oysters by the bushel in Jacksonville is at a local seafood market. Shops like Safe Harbor Seafood Market, The Fisherman’s Dock, and Singleton’s Seafood Shack all sell quality oysters sourced right from the Atlantic.

I like to visit seafood markets in person so I can inspect the oysters and ensure they look healthy and fresh before purchasing. A reputable seafood market should be able to shuck an oyster to sample. I look for plump oysters filled with seawater that have a mild, briny aroma.

Seafood markets are also a budget-friendly option, usually selling oysters for $25-$40 per bushel depending on availability and size. Just call ahead to check on current stock and pricing.

Or Enjoy Shucked Oysters at a Local Restaurant

Another option is to visit one of Jacksonville’s amazing oyster bars and restaurants. Spots like Safe Harbor Seafood Restaurant, The Crab Trap, and Beach Road Chicken Dinners all serve fresh raw oysters shucked to order.

While most restaurants don’t allow you to buy oysters by the bushel, you can often call ahead to preorder several dozen oysters for takeout. Expect to pay a higher per-oyster price compared to markets, but you’ll save the hassle of shucking yourself!

Purchase from Local Vendors at Farmer’s Markets

For a fun experience, head to one of Jacksonville’s farmer’s markets to buy oysters from local aquafarmers and fishermen. The Riverside Arts Market and Beaches Green Market both frequently have seafood vendors selling ultra-fresh oysters.

Farmer’s markets let you meet and support small local oyster suppliers. You’ll pay a premium, but the quality is unmatched. Chat with the vendors about their operations and where they harvest their oysters for a memorable experience.

Prioritize Freshness When Purchasing Oysters

No matter where you buy your oysters, freshness should be your top priority. Oysters spoil rapidly, so quality matters. Follow these tips for choosing fresh, delicious oysters:

• Buy from reputable seafood markets or restaurants, not grocery stores
• Inspect oysters before purchasing
• Avoid oysters from contaminated waters
• Cook oysters within 24 hours of purchasing for food safety

Proper storage is also crucial. Place raw oysters in a container on top of crushed ice. Elevate the container off the melted ice and drainage. This keeps the oysters chilled at the optimal temperature without getting waterlogged.

Traditional Seafood Markets for Oyster Lovers

Some of my favorite classic seafood shops for buying bushels of oysters in Jacksonville include:

The Fisherman’s Dock – This market has three locations across northeast Florida. They hand-select beautiful oysters and will custom cut or shuck seafood to order.

Atlantic Seafood Bait & Tackle – Located on Amelia Island, they source fresh oysters straight from local fishermen’s boats. You can even request oysters to be pre-shucked.

Safe Harbor Seafood – Both their restaurant and market offer a wide variety of fish and shellfish. You can dine on oysters or take home a bushel.

These traditional markets have longstanding reputations for quality and service. You can rely on them for exceptional oysters.

Trendy Oyster Bars Offer Unique Takes

If you want more than just raw oysters on the half shell, hit up one of these popular oyster bars:

• The Crab Trap – Creative oyster dishes plus happy hour deals make this a fun spot. Try their fried oysters or oyster shooters!

• Sliders Oyster Bar – With a waterfront view and full bar, this is a great place for oysters Rockefeller, oyster po’ boys, and of course raw oysters.

• The Fish Company – Upscale and sleek, their raw bar lets you watch oysters shucked fresh. They also offer cooked oyster recipes.

These trendy spots put their own spin on oysters. You’ll find great variety beyond just a standard raw oyster presentation.

Purchase Oysters Online for Convenient Delivery

If you don’t have time to get to the market or restaurant, there are convenient online ordering and delivery options:

• Uber Eats – Browse restaurant menus that offer oysters and place an order for delivery.

• Safe Harbor Seafood – Order online for in-store pickup or local delivery within 15 miles.

• Jacksonville Fish Company – Ships fresh seafood nationwide, including raw and frozen oysters.

Just be aware that raw oyster delivery has potential food safety risks. Opt for well-packed frozen oysters or cooked oyster dishes to be safe.

Shucking and Serving Oysters at Home

Once you’ve procured your bushel of oysters, it’s time for the fun part – shucking and eating! Here are my tips for preparing oysters at home:

• Rinse and soak oysters in a saltwater bath for 1 hour before shucking. This helps purge any grit.
• Use an oyster knife and glove to protect your hand that’s holding the oyster.
• Find the hinge. Twist the knife to pop open the shell, then detach the top shell.
• Slide the knife under the oyster meat to free it. Discard any pieces of broken shell.
• Arrange shucked oysters on crushed ice with lemon wedges and your favorite sauces.
• Refrigerate any uneaten oysters and enjoy within 24 hours. Discard any with an off smell or look.

Now it’s time to slurp down these creamy, salty gifts from the sea! Oysters are delicious raw, baked, or fried. Just take care not to overcook them.

Support Local Oystermen by Buying Local

One last benefit of purchasing oysters from Jacksonville suppliers is that you support local fishing families and the community. The seafood industry creates jobs and keeps ocean-to-table dining sustainable.

Large chains and online retailers can’t compare to the pride Jacksonville oystermen take in their craft. You’ll get a higher quality product while also boosting the local economy. It’s a win-win when you buy local oysters!

So next time you get an oyster craving, skip the supermarket. Head to one of Jacksonville’s amazing seafood purveyors and bring home a bushel of the freshest oysters around. Just don’t forget the mignonette sauce!