Two North Yorkshire restaurants by the coast have been revealed as some of the best places to visit for oyster lovers.

Across the whole of Yorkshire, it had to be Whitby’s legendary Magpie Café as well as the popular Moon and Sixpence which both made The Independent’s must-visit list.

The publisher commented on its seafood guide: “These days, you can enjoy the finest oysters up and down the country, whether you’re overlooking the Cornish coast, tucked away in a Glasgow bistro, or even in the heart of landlocked Birmingham.

“With native oyster season (from September to April, when Ostrea edulis, or the European native oyster, is at its best) upon us, now is the perfect time to shuck your way through the best Britain has to offer.

"From the plump, mineral-rich Loch Crerans of Scotland to the creamy, salty Whitstable natives, British oysters come in a variety of shapes and sizes, each offering their own unique flavour profile.”

It added: “We’ve scoured the UK to find some of the best restaurants where you can indulge in oysters this season.

"Whether you prefer them served in a casual shack by the water, or in a Michelin-starred dining room, here’s our roundup of the finest spots to get your oyster fix.

"Prepare to slurp, chew and savour the freshest, most delicious oysters the UK has to offer – no sea views required.”

Find out more about all the UK’s top places for a plate of tasty oysters here.

Why Magpie Café and Moon and Sixpence are among best oyster restaurants

Writing about Magpie Café, known for its iconic fish and chips, The Independent shared its also home to some “cracking” Lindisfarne oysters.

“The choice is simple: shucked and served with lemon and Tabasco or grilled with garlic butter.

“Magpie Café has been a fixture for years, with queues stretching down the harbour, and its commitment to top-notch seafood, whether it’s oysters, chowder or proper Yorkshire fish and chips, is the reason it’s so beloved.”

Of course, Magpie Café has also been recommended by visitors on Tripadvisor, as one left a review which said: “Had a beautiful seafood evening meal at the magpie, staff were super helpful and the quality of the food was 1st class, only probably the 3rd time we’ve dined here, but the quality is superb.

"We had Lindisfarne oysters, calamari, Lobster Thermidor, Whitby crab pate, seafood paella and haddock and salmon gratin, all served with a lovely salad, olives etc… highly recommend.”

Additionally, Moon and Sixpence which is nestled on the edge of Whitby’s harbour was praised for its oysters from Lindisfarne which “steal the spotlight”.

The Independent continued: “Served either raw on ice or hot with Sriracha sauce, they’re simple, fresh and perfect.

@munschonthis The Moon & Sixpence, Whitby 🌙 Food was good, staff were amazing, virgin pina colada 10/10. Dog friendly! 🐾 #fyp #whitby #whitbyfood #dogfriendlywhitby #foryou #foryoupage ♬ The Sound of Silence (CYRIL Remix) - Disturbed

“The restaurant itself is laid-back, a place to kick back with a cocktail, enjoy the scenery and devour some of the finest oysters this side of the North Sea.

“For a casual oyster experience with a view, you can’t go wrong.”

Over on Tripadvisor, someone who recently dined at Moon and Sixpence posted: “A lovely early dinner during our trip to Whitby.


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“Service was amazing as was the food and the cocktails were even better!

“Would definitely recommend and will definitely return!

“We would recommend booking as it got quite busy.”