Martinis, Mignonette & Magic: Ultimate Oyster Pairing Guide
—Oysters on the half shell with fresh horseradish and cocktail sauce
At Blue Island Oyster Bar, we know true purists savor their oysters naked—just shell, brine, and that pure ocean kiss. But for those who want to dial the experience up a notch, adding the right martini, mignonette, sides and sauces can conjure a moment of full-blown coastal magic.
With National Oyster Day coming up on
August 5, here’s your insider’s guide to building the ultimate oyster pairing experience.
Start with the Oyster
From Blue Island Shellfish Farms to your plate, our oysters arrive fresh, briny, and ready to shine on their own. If you’re all about that unadulterated taste, one clean slurp and you’re done. If you’re in the mood to play, each step below elevates your oyster—transforming it from simple sea-kissed beauty to an unforgettable flavor journey.
Step 1: Pair with a Martini
Martinis are the oyster’s best friend. Why? Their crisp edge cuts through the richness like a sea breeze.
Classic Pairings:
Dirty Martini – Salty, briny, and a match made in heaven for any oyster
Cucumber Martini – Refreshing and clean, perfect with sweet, creamy oysters
Try Our Signature Martini made exclusively at Blue Island
Grey Goose Vodka or Bombay Sapphire Gin
Lo-Fi Dry Vermouth
Truffle Salt Rim
Blue Cheese-Stuffed Olive
—East coast oysters on the half shell served on a bed of ice with pink peppercorn mignonette and fresh lemon
Step 2: Mignonette Or Not
Think of mignonette as your oyster’s dressing room. The vinegar cuts the creaminess, while the shallots bring bite.
While there are spicy mignonettes and other varieties, our choice is Champagne Vinegar & Pink Peppercorn (bright, peppery pop!).
—Blue Island Hot Sauce
Step 3: Hot Sauce It (or Don’t)
Not every oyster needs fire—but if you're a thrill-seeker:
Green Tabasco = Tangy and mild
Cholula = Smoky with depth
Ghost Pepper Drops = For oyster daredevils only
Or try our Blue Island Hot Sauce, it’s fiery, tangy, and a perfect way to add some heat.
Step 4: Add the Cocktail Sauce
No oyster spread is complete without a zesty cocktail sauce—especially when you want a little extra kick. At Blue Island, we offer:
Classic Cocktail Sauce – Ketchup base with Worcestershire, lemon juice, and chopped horseradish
Extra-Spicy Horseradish Kick – A generous swirl of fresh-grated horseradish for heat that wakes up your palate
Creamy Horseradish Aioli – Smooth mayo-horseradish blend for a mellow, tangy finish
—Spread of Blue Island appetizers, fresh-shucked oysters and a martini
Step 5: Don’t Forget the Sides
After all, it’s fun to pick and share from all our great appetizers, many are perfect to pair oysters with:
Shishito Peppers with ponzu sauce
Buttery artisan bread
Shoestring Fries with togarashi seasoning
Feeling daring? Chilled vodka shooters
Plan Your Visit
We serve a variety of East & West Coast everyday and our menu offerings change frequently. A great day to try oysters is on Shuck Mondays with $1.35 oysters all day, every Monday. Our oysters are premium and fresh from our farm and with a low price, you can order several to see which way you prefer!
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