There’s nothing more refreshing than freshly shucked Hog Island Oysters with the warm, sun-kissed golden tones on your skin and fresh crab and oysters on your lips.  

I recently had the chance to make it to Hog Island before the quarantine. What a relief to finally stop in, without a reservation because others had made cancellations that day. It was a rare blessing to make it on as you typically need reservations with about 6-months out. 

After exploring Stag’s Leap Winery and many others the Friday before, it was a delight to not only catch a dream location but to have the sun kiss your skin, even in your hoodie and hat. 

We ordered 36 oysters, a whole crab, fresh bread, and used the $15 corkage fee with a bottle of Black Chicken that we picked up in Napa the day before. On top of that, we ordered a charcuterie plate and I can’t even tell you how my heart soared to have all of these flavors in one experience. It was amazing! 

What should I order at Hog Island Oyster Co.? 

I’m so glad you asked. While I shared above what you can order, there’s a variety of options with their menu located here.  They focus on charcuterie, oysters, salad, and bread. Unfortunately, they’re still closed due to COVID-19 county restrictions. If you can’t make it out to Marshall Point on the coast, I highly recommend visiting their location in Napa’s Oxbow Public Market or on the Pier in San Francisco. Personally, I love that they’re also certified B-Corp. (This falls into the same category of Ben & Jerry’s, Etsy, Arbonne, and other companies who are committed to making good with their business.) 

What Hog Island Oysters taste like:

• Sweetwater: a gentle, sweet, and smoky flavor. It’s the original showstopper

• Kumamoto: buttery with cucumber, melon flavors, and often have a tiny shell with big flavor.

• Atlantics: seasonal, smooth, and delicate minerality.

If you’re not experienced with oysters, I always suggested exploring your toppings before you immediately write off the flavor. If the texture bothers you, reset your focus to understand what about the silky texture that makes you uncomfortable. I recommend their Hogwash before you add Tobasco or other spices. Something amazing happens with the rice vinegar, herbs, and lime juice on the oyster meat.

How do I make Hogwash at home?

The ultimate topping is called their signature Hogwash. My oh my is this a favorite. I have actually made these myself with oysters purchased from Whole Foods Market and it took me back to pretending I was actually at a Hog Island location. 

Ingredients to Hogwash 

• 1/4 cup seasoned rice vinegar

• 1/4 cup unseasoned rice vinegar

• 1 large shallot, peeled and minced

• 1 large jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced

• 1/2 bunch cilantro, finely chopped

• Juice of 1 lime