The RI Oyster Trail is a Culinary Adventure

Sure we’ve all been around to most corners of the state, but have you gone on a self-guided oyster tour? I think not. That’s where the Rhode Island Oyster Trail (RIOT) comes in. RIOT brings together restaurants that agree to serve at least one RI-raised oyster year-round and highlight the oyster farmers that grow them. Farmers and restaurants can join the trail simply by becoming a member.

What does this mean for you, dear reader? Because of their dedication to locally raised oysters, you get to tour the participating farms and eat their products at participating restaurants. Head over to Midtown Oyster Bar (345 Thames Street, Newport. 401-619-4100, www.MidtownOyster.com) for their assortment of Venus, Walrus & Carpenter, East Beach Blondes and Quonset oysters or head over to The Wharf Pub (37 Bowen’s Wharf, Newport.
401-619-5672, www.TheWharfPubNewport.com)
for their Matunuck oysters.

Who are the masterminds behind this idea? That would be the Bowen’s Wharf Company. “By bringing oyster farmers together with the restaurants… the trail helps consumers, locals and visitors enjoy Rhode Island Oysters year round, beyond Newport, all around the state,” says Marketing Director Trixie Wadson. “We’d like to curate more farm-to-table events and help people explore the state while supporting RI aquaculture and culinary tourism.”

And for those shy about slurping down one of these briny treats, Trixie recommends trying a small one with a little squeeze of lemon and cocktail sauce. Wash it down with a glass of Prosecco for the ultimate experience. As for her, she loves Salt Pond, Matunuck and Walrus & Carpenter oysters. Apparently they are good any time of day, which includes breakfast.

RI Oyster Trail
401-849-2243 
www.RIOysterTrail.com