Thursday, June 26, 2008

Restaurant Review - Oyster Boy




Oyster Boy
872 Queen Street West,
Toronto, ON
(416) 534-3432
http://www.oysterboy.ca/



This is a review for those of us that love seafood, in this case the oyster.
It doesn't matter whether it is dipped in a beer batter or panko bread crumbs and fried to a beautiful golden brown. Or delectably grilled on an open flame with the flavours of cedar infusing into it. Or sautéed in sweet butter with garlic, shallots and provencial herbs. Or even steeped in a fragrant broth surrounded seasonal vegetables and a piece of crusty bread ready for the dipping.
My favourite way to eat seafood, more specifically the jewel of the sea; the oyster, is raw. And nobody does it better than Oyster Boy on Queen West in Toronto. The restaurant itself is situated right next to Trinity-Bellwood's Park in Parkdale. From the outside it looks like a local dive bar, with its black paint and military looking logo. You may even do a double take when you enter the restaurant, not sure about whether or not you are in an eatery or a bar. It has pub style sitting with tall chairs and wood topped tables, that can be described as rustic and cozy. But the ambience is just right. It doesn't have the pretentiousness of 'finer' dining establishments, it has a homey feel.


The servers are excellent; they are fast, attentive and friendly. They are willing to explain the difference between the many types of oysters that they serve and they are even willing to go through the menu and explain the items.


Now for the food. Firstly the prepared items are delicious and absolutely enjoyable. The deep fried oysters with the wonderful mayonnaise, is heaven on a plate. And the Oysters Rockefeller are prepared wonderfully. The raw oysters are amazing. The selection cannot be found anywhere else, and the taste of a fresh oyster is like nothing you have ever had before. With over 6 varieties of oysters there is something to satisfy even the most 'selective' diner. They can be purchased individually or in dozens. And it is really easy to go through a dozen and not even realize it. Also, if you're not sure about which type of oyster is right for you, just ask the server!
For those that are not to keen on oysters the seafood platter is the thing for you. It's loaded with fish, and shrimp.


As you can probably tell Oyster Boy is one of my favorite restaurants. Since finding it by accident almost three years ago, I have been back many, many, many times and can't wait for my next trip back.

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