If your passion is seafood, you may feel like you have to hop across the pond to Europe in order to find some truly delicious oysters. However, if you’re living in or visiting Tennessee, there are plenty of great spots around the city where you can find exceptional oyster dishes.
With so many options out there, how do you choose which ones will satisfy your cravings? Read on to discover our pick for the 7 best oyster bar in Tennessee!
The 7 Best Oyster Restaurant in Tennessee
The Stolen Coin Oyster Bar & Bistro
- Address: 110 S Main St, Gainesboro, TN 38562, United States
- Map: Click here
- Rating: 4.8 (180)
- Phone: +1 931-268-2646
- Website: Link
- Opening hours:
Monday: 3:00 – 8:00 PMTuesday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PMWednesday: ClosedThursday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PMFriday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PMSaturday: 12:00 – 8:00 PMSunday: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
- Reviews:
Must try!!!! Absolutely positively amazing food and service!!! Oysters were as fresh as you can find in Tennessee!!! Grilled oysters were as good if not better than Drago’s in New Orleans and I’m a tough critic on seafood. Bravo Stolen Coin!!! And the Blackened Red Snapper was divine. Not to much blackened spice, just right with the balance of the cream & shrimp sauce over rice!! Also the scallops were cooked to perfection!!By Rob Cook (8 months ago)Off the chain great. I’ve had shrimp and grits, jambalaya, gumbo, catfish blackened, raw oysters, everything is great. Beer and liquor also served. They are building a speakeasy upstairs. Will be fun.By Michelle Davis (9 months ago)UPDATED
First and foremost I just want to acknowledge the kind manager that reached out to me! They went above and beyond to ensure me that I will never have an experience like the one below again. They told me to see them personally the next time I visited and even offered me a gift card for my trouble. It is rare these days that businesses truly care for their customers. You can tell these people have a heart for people. So I greatly appreciate that.
For that I am giving the BUSINESS 5 stars and the server 0…Here is what happened
I just want to preface this by saying the FOOD is absolutely AMAZING! I ordered the riblets with fries and slaw. The riblets were tender and full of flavor and the BBQ sauce was very tasty! The slaw has a unique flavor but it is absolutely delicious unlike anything I’ve had before. Fries were good seasoned nicely and crisp.
Now, moving on. The low rating is because we had the RUDEST server I have EVER had in my life. It took EVERYTHING inside my body not to retaliate to her attitude towards me. Every question was answered with a smart aleck response. She dropped our food off and didn’t come back until the end of our meal practically. I had wanted ranch for my fries but by the time she came back my fries were gone.
The last time we came food was amazing and Parker was super friendly. If you ever visit, ask for him. We always have a great experience with him!
She absolutely ruined our dinner with her rude attitude and dirty looks.
06/06/22
My friend and I visited again. The food once again was absolutely delicious. I got the honey brined chicken with spinach and fries. The chicken was tender and delicious! The spinach was full of flavor. The fries are always crisp and delicious with their ranch. It almost tastes like tzaziki. Yummy!
For dessert I had the key lime ice cream. It was some of the best ice cream I’ve EVER had.
Our server was Parker per usual service was phenomenal! We bragged about him to the kitchen manager who was also just lovely. Great visit!
By Vanessa Smith (6 months ago)The place is amazing. The oysters were to die for and the entrees are delicious. I would suggest a more cheerful coat of paint as it’s a bit not too cheerful but the food and the staff.. tops! We will definitely go back! Way to go guys!By Laure Schaffner (9 months ago)Here’s a little gem in rural middle Tennessee. The Stolen Coin looks simple outside and inside but dishes up some pretty amazing food. Their iced tea is so refreshing and tastes fresh made and we visited 30 minutes before closing. We started with the pork belly appetizer. Listen, y’all. Get this! It’s glazed with a reduced stout glaze and served with baguettes and a fresh pickled slaw. They really should consider making this a sandwich on the menu!For entrees we enjoyed grilled snapper and pork snitzel. Both were wonderful! The snapper would have been perfect with a little pat of parsley butter and squeeze of lemon rather than just a garnish of parsley. The snitzel needed a little something to catch the grease from being deep fried (it’s not greasy but even just a little in the plate softens the fried texture). Both entrees came with a small salad. The salad is the perfect size side salad. Their honey mustard and apple vinaigrette dressings were very good. They serve real butter!
We finished off with a banana pudding, which honestly was a bit disappointing after the great appetizer and entrees. It was made with real whipped cream, but the pudding was unremarkable.
The restaurant was clean. Very attentive wait staff, and background music that still allowed for normal conversation. Should you go? Yes! Make the drive to little Gainesboro and stop in for fresh oysters and good food!
By Karen Seals (a year ago)
The Optimist
- Address: 1400 Adams St, Nashville, TN 37208, United States
- Map: Click here
- Rating: 4.7 (514)
- Phone: +1 615-709-3156
- Website: Link
- Opening hours:
Monday: 5:00 – 9:00 PMTuesday: 5:00 – 9:00 PMWednesday: 5:00 – 9:00 PMThursday: 5:00 – 9:00 PMFriday: 5:00 – 10:00 PMSaturday: 5:00 – 10:00 PMSunday: 5:00 – 9:00 PM
- Reviews:
This was our first time dining here and it was for Valentine’s Day. There was a fixed dinner price per, excluding drinks. The place is surrounded by construction, but GPS will get you there. Parking was a little rough, there was no handicap parking near. Once inside the staff and our waiter were punctual, knowledgeable, and friendly. The atmosphere here is very laid-back chill, the bar has a good selection of spirits. They do carry allocated bourbon. The menu was filled with culinary creativity. Oysters, crab meat, smoked fish dip, scallops, and my fish was good. The sorbet was good but overpowered by the lime juice, and the brownie was IMO 3 minutes overcooked (like mine soft). I honestly wasn’t wowed with flavor but it did look good so the presentation was on point. I will be back to try the regular menu to give it a fair score. I heard there is a whole fish flounder I want to try. If you’re looking for a spot to grab apps and drinks this is a good spot. Thank you for the hospitality.By Clay Hair jr (9 months ago)We had stopped in here for a drink one night last year when we had reservations at the sushi restaurant down the street. Tonight we decided to have dinner here before heading to Brooklyn Bowl for a concert. The cocktail program is excellent but we were slightly disappointed by the food. The seafood heavy menu is very creative, especially for a land locked state like Tennessee but the execution was not 100%. Many of the dishes were over complicated and unfortunately prevented the star of the show, the high quality fresh fish, from shining through.By Nick S (9 months ago)Had a great dinner. Get the Gulf Shrimp appetizer! Excellent! Had the New England Style Lobster Rolls, and their specialty, Chicken and Dumplings. Both excellent. Also had the new potatoes, hush puppies, and summer greens for sides. All very good! The ambiance was great. Location excellent. Very busy! Definitely need to plan ahead and get reservations. Service was great too. Brian did a great job. I would have given it a 5 star rating, but the bathrooms were a disappointment. Definitely not clean and in-step with the rest of the restaurant. Could have used a good mop! Other than that, I thoroughly enjoyed it.By Bryan Dusza (4 months ago)Always our favorite for seafood in Nashville. Birthdays, out of towners, whatever-the atmosphere is perfect. I myself like to take down as many oysters as I can, but the entire menu is a win. Last visit 8/17/2022 and service was also flawless!By Tee Ayyy (3 months ago)Came for wife’s birthday – food service was on the slower side but overall a good experience. My only gripe was the table wasn’t big enough to fit all the food we ordered. Had to play Tetris to fit the plates and rush to finish a plate to fit another in. So if you’re coming to sample a bunch of items on the menu…good luck. The opportunist was a your classic seafood platter – the smoked fish dip with the cracker was simple but delicious. Octopus was on the chewier side. Flavor was solid. Swordfish was perfectly cooked but was unfortunately overpowered by the beef bourguignon. Did not compliment each other perfectly but hats off trying something different 🙂By YooSung Lee (5 months ago)
Gandy Seafood Cajun Market – Hermitage
- Address: 3441 Lebanon Pike Suite 113, Hermitage, TN 37076, United States
- Map: Click here
- Rating: 4.7 (51)
- Phone: +1 615-678-4360
- Opening hours:
Monday: 11:30 AM – 8:00 PMTuesday: 11:30 AM – 8:00 PMWednesday: 11:30 AM – 8:00 PMThursday: 11:30 AM – 8:00 PMFriday: 11:30 AM – 8:30 PMSaturday: 11:30 AM – 8:30 PMSunday: 11:30 AM – 8:00 PM
- Reviews:
Holy Wow! This place is so very amazing! We walked in and were welcomed by the friendliest dude ever! He was so patient explaining all of the amazing things they have and everything they could do with the amazing fresh seafood they have! And damn was it good seafood! We all loved it and can’t wait until we can go back!By Melissa Krau (3 months ago)Living in Old Hickory there aren’t great seafood options around here (I thought), so I’ve been resorting to the Juicy Seafoods in Madison and E Nash. I came across this place on Google Maps and… wow.
Im a seafood novice, but Kojo guided me through it. I ended up going with 12 raw oysters, and 1lb of royal reds (steamed, and seasoned). The oysters were just over $1 each and completely on par with the $4/ea I’ve had at Henrietta Red. Delicious! The royal reds, however, were outstanding. 10x fresher and easier to peel than JS and for the same price. I just called in a carry out order and am on my way back in right now.
By Eric Conklin (4 months ago)Recently moved to the area and I was at a nearby market when I noticed Gandy Seafood so i decided to walk in and check it out and I’m glad I did! Super friendly staff and great options! I got the spicy cajun crawfish pie and I’m excited to try it! I will be back soonBy Chip B (3 months ago)Do yourself a favor and go get some fresh royal reds shrimp and have them steamed. By far the best shrimp I’ve had with the Cajun cocktail.i don’t even like tuna but the tuna dip was so good, shrimp dip was amazing. Broccoli and potatoes were so juicy and full of flavor. Might be my new Sunday spot with the salmon salad that got devoured in just a couple mins. Everything we had was phenomenal and I can’t wait to get some fried lobster tail in the futureBy randall mimms (4 months ago)This was a very pleasant stop! I was just passing through Nashville and was excited tipi find an affordable seafood stop. And an awesome polis is that it was Black Owned! I got the steak tenderloin, 1/2 pound shrimp, sausage, and clued with a 19iz Dr. Pepper for under $22!!By Rachel Lugendo (4 months ago)
Chesapeake’s Seafood and Raw Bar
- Address: 437 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, United States
- Map: Click here
- Rating: 4.6 (1387)
- Phone: +1 865-622-6999
- Website: Link
- Opening hours:
Monday: 4:00 – 10:00 PMTuesday: 4:00 – 10:00 PMWednesday: 4:00 – 10:00 PMThursday: 4:00 – 10:00 PMFriday: 4:00 – 11:00 PMSaturday: 2:00 – 11:00 PMSunday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Reviews:
Tennessee’s best! This restaurant is so amazing, and anyone looking for seafood should visit Chesapeake’s. Our waiter was so kind, and the environment is just immaculate. If visiting this restaurant, I recommend that you dress nice as this restaurant is a very upper class restaurant.
I must admit, my scallops were over salted. Other than that, the rest of our food was perfect. If looking to get dessert, I recommend the Strawberry Shortcake. As someone from New England, I 100% recommend this Strawberry Shortcake, as it is New England style.
To conclude all of this, you should visit Chesapeake’s.
By T. H. (6 months ago)Had reservations a week ahead of time, but waited at least 20 minutes to be seated. Our party was split up between a table and a booth so we had to get up to talk to each other. I had told the hostess when I arrived that we would have 3 less people because of last minute cancellations. Both hostesses up front were very nice and helpful. Another gentleman came up to the desk, I don’t know if he was a manager, and told me that I should have told them of the 3 cancellations before then because it was an inconvenience? I’m sorry but that’s exactly what I did when I arrived on time, so I felt chastised.The waitress that took care of us was very nice and attentive. However our main course took over an hour and a half to come to the table. Even salads took a very long time.
The Long Island Tea was perfect but the Blackberry Mule was honestly horrible, overly sweet. Once the main courses arrived, they were hot and delicious, portions were appropriate. Would like to see the baked acorn squash on the winter selection, that was always a delicious vegetable alternative.
Overall good visit and worth the drive through Gatlinburg traffic. There was a small parking lot convenient right next door.
By Kimberly Loeffler (a week ago)Delicious seafood and nice ambience. A bit pricey but decent portions. The broiled seafood platter was very good. The fried shrimp was good but too salty. And their baked cod and the brown rice & quinoa was good! We added a $1 to get loaded baked potatoes which was very good. Coleslaw and broccoli sides were good complements to our entrees. They give a complementary mini bread basket that includes baguettes, croissants, corn bread, muffin.By Ellen Eun (2 months ago)Chesapeake’s always impresses!! It’s a can’t-miss restaurant in Gatlinburg, in my opinion it’s by far the best. Whenever I come here with anyone, I make sure to take them to Chesapeake’s because I know it will be a great experience. They manage to have quality seafood in the mountains that tastes as if you’re on the coast, and the steak is top notch too (so much better than what we got at nearby steakhouses). It isn’t cheap but when you eat the food you’ll understand why-the quality is so fantastic.Highly recommend the fresh catch of the day, the lobster, king crab legs, crab cakes, crab bisque, ribeye steak, shrimp, every side, and margaritas (add fresh strawberry!). Crab legs were on their daily special menu and may not be available other days.
We made reservations months in advance for a large group on a holiday weekend and Cheyenne in management went out of her way to make it an amazing experience. We ended up getting to our reservation really early and they accommodated us right away. Every member of our group raved all night about their food, the service, the drinks, the atmosphere, and the whole experience. Our waiter and waitress were so helpful and answered a lot of questions patiently and kindly, and made us feel so well taken care of. Dinner at Chesapeake’s was the highlight of our trip!
By Rachael Heffner (6 months ago)Fantastic seafood. Loved the lobster. Would definitely return. It is some what pricey but you get what you pay for. Our waitress Caroline was amazing and I loves watching her crack and prepare lobster. Great atmosphere .By Don Hall (4 months ago)
The Cove
- Address: 2559 Broad Ave, Memphis, TN 38112, United States
- Map: Click here
- Rating: 4.6 (565)
- Phone: +1 901-730-0719
- Website: Link
- Opening hours:
Monday: 12:00 AM – 2:00 PM, 4:00 PM – 12:00 AMTuesday: 12:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 4:00 PM – 12:00 AMWednesday: 12:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 4:00 PM – 12:00 AMThursday: 12:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 4:00 PM – 12:00 AMFriday: 12:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 4:00 PM – 12:00 AMSaturday: 12:00 AM – 2:00 PM, 4:00 PM – 12:00 AMSunday: 12:00 AM – 2:00 PM, 4:00 PM – 12:00 AM
- Reviews:
Came this past weekend with my sister. Wasn’t there long but the time we did spend was relaxing. Everything is open, everyone is up and moving around, very fluid. Bartenders were cool and the atmosphere was welcoming. We had a few drinks. One was suggested, a rum and ginger beer mix, the other, a simple crown and coke. Both were good. Will be back soon!By Lena Eleby (11 months ago)I love this place, the cocktails are great and so is the food! I’ve tried quite a few things and have not been disappointed yet!! They play jazz every Sunday and Thursday, and some Friday’s. Last Friday Phoenix 901 rocked the house, and boy did they rock it! They were so good. I’m a repeat customer, for sure!By Artistiqly Xpressive (6 months ago)DO IT! If you’re unfamiliar with the area but seeking a “familiar feeling” place to grab a drink and grub, this is the spot. The Cove offers “hole in the wall” character, great staff, asthetics, awesome food, and the owner’s super friendly dog, George! Visited a few days ago, and Brandon was an amazing server!By Hannah Rae (a year ago)I’ve enjoyed the great mixology and the atmosphere of the Cove for a decade. Fantastic bar and above-average cuisine. It also features a nice outdoor patio area adorned with a great nautical-themed mural, which represents the establishment well.By Robert “Robbie” House (2 months ago)Good bar for absinthe and Tom Waits’ songs. Haven’t had any of the food. I love the vibe and décor.
Okay, it’s been years since my 1st review. Fact: there’s not a bar like it in Memphis.
The food is great pub grub – the Stoner pie is a guilty pleasure. The back patio is excellent.
It may be the best neighborhood bar in Memphis.
By Thom Thomas (9 months ago)
Eddie V’s Prime Seafood
- Address: 590 Broadway, Nashville, TN 37203, United States
- Map: Click here
- Rating: 4.6 (435)
The Brass Pearl
- Address: 24 Market Square, Knoxville, TN 37902, United States
- Map: Click here
- Rating: 4.6 (97)
Thank you for reading! If you have any additional information on the best oyster resto in Tennessee, please leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you!
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