The Gulf Coast is the best place in the world for fresh oysters. The Gulf States supply about two-thirds of U.S. oysters. So, we know what we are doing when it comes to eating and preparing the delicacy. For oyster lovers, the next two weekends are the best time to be on the Alabama Gulf Coast.
To start the bivalve celebration, the second annual Oyster Cookoff at The Hangout in Gulf Shores is Saturday, November 7. The free event features teams of chefs and individuals competing in four categories – Barbeque, Gulf Coast Cajun, Classic Rockefeller and Create Your Own. While sampling the luscious fare, you can watch the LSU and Alabama game. What more could you ask for on a Saturday afternoon. A team of three judges will determine the category winners. The first prize is $1,000. The favorite of public attending the event will receive a People’s Choice Award.
If that isn’t enough oysters for you (it isn’t for me), Saturday, November 14, make your way out County Road 10 to the Tin Top Market, Restaurant & Oyster Bar. The first Bon Secour Oyster & Wine Festival will take place on the grounds from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. There will be live music, wine samplings from Sonoma and Napa Valley and all-you-can-eat baked oysters. Admission is a bargain at $10. There is also a competition for teams with a grand prize of $1,000 and $500 people’s choice prize. The categories are Classic – Oyster Rockefeller and Oyster Bienville, Barbeque and Open. This creates more great oysters to sample.
If you aren’t already here, make plans to come on down. We’ll try to save a few oysters for you. If you haven’t eaten fresh oysters from the Gulf of Mexico, you are in for a treat!
post provided by Luanne Burnett
