It was once common practice for foodies to only consume fresh oysters during months containing the letter “r”— September through April. But with increased oyster farming and more vigilant harvesting practices, oyster lovers can now enjoy them all year long. And they don’t have to be such a big monetary indulgence, either. Northern Virginia Magazine found several NoVA establishments that offer oysters priced at just $1 apiece (or less).
Ford’s Fish Shack
Ford’s offers its signature bivalve, the Wicked Pissah, for $1 each on Mondays at all three of its sit-down locations: Ashburn, Leesburg, and Chantilly. These oysters are cultivated in the Chesapeake Bay specifically for the restaurant and are mild and slightly sweet. Wash down a dozen — or two — with a pint or specialty cocktail. Multiple locations
Good Eats Emporium
One of the newest additions to the Great American Restaurants family, Good Eats Emporium serves up local oysters for $1 during happy hour. The War Shore, a full-bodied, mild-to-mid-salinity oyster from Occohannock Creek, is the restaurant’s offering of choice, but other local oysters may be available. There are specials on drinks, too, so order up some oysters or other happy hour bites along with a $5 martini or chilled glass of rosé for a special afternoon outing. Happy hour runs Monday through Friday, from 2 to 6 p.m. (bar area only). 45990 Waterview Plz., Sterling
King Street Oyster Bar
With its daily happy hour — and with four convenient locations in the DC area — KSOB makes oysters delightfully accessible. During happy hour, from 3 to 6:30 p.m. at all locations, the restaurant offers not only its signature “KSOB” oyster at $1 apiece, but a wide selection of other appetizer and drink specials as well. Multiple locations
Bear Branch Tavern
On Tuesday evening after 4 p.m., this casual Vienna eatery goes all out with $1 Cannon Cove oysters, sourced from the Chesapeake Bay and shucked to order. The special pricing is part of a raw bar menu that also includes steamed mussels, spiced shrimp, and Alaskan snow crab. 133 Maple Ave. E, Vienna
Fats Fairfax
At just $5 per half dozen — less than $1 apiece — Fats’ Tuesday seafood specials are easily the best deal around. In addition to fresh oysters, diners can enjoy dishes such as steamed mussels, shrimp, jambalaya, and gumbo, all at $5. There’s a full bar on site as well as a selection of 17 draft beers on tap, plus seasonal beer options on rotation. Tuesdays from 3 to 9 p.m. 10673 Braddock Rd., Fairfax
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