Until fairly recently, I never really understood the allure of oysters – the texture pretty much made me cringe. When challenged, I've often heard oyster fans defending them by saying, “but the sauces – they are amazing!” And my response to that was usually, “then why don’t you just eat the sauce?”
A couple of years ago – a very close friend of mine, Sarah, started to date a terrific guy named Darryl who also happens to own the Hogtown Pub & Oysters on College Street in Toronto (side note, they got married last weekend at a gorgeous ceremony in Toronto – SO happy for them!!). When we were first introduced – I think I confessed to him that the thought of eating oysters completely grossed me out, but as our friendship progressed – he managed to coerce me into trying them again. As a result, I became a convert and discovered that I actually love and even crave them now (Who knew?!? Thank you, Darryl!!).
Fortunately for us – here in PEC, there is a lovely woman by the name of Sam Ravenda who, through her business The Shore Oysters, supplies an incredible array of oysters to a number of local establishments that have included Norman Hardie, the late, great County Road Beer and several others as well as events around the County. She also offers catering too.
Aside from offering a wide selection of oysters, her demeanor is SO bright and cheery – I don’t think I’ve ever seen her without a hugely infectious smile - she has such a positive energy about her. We were sad to hear that she recently left Sand and Pearl as she really helped to put that terrific restaurant on the map, but are grateful that we will still be able to enjoy her work in the area – and plan to often!!
If you are like I used to be and don’t fancy oysters, maybe consider giving them another shot. I NEVER ever thought I would see the day when I actually crave and seek them out as I do now. Sam’s work here in PEC is excellent and you know what else? The the sauces really ARE amazing, and they wouldn’t be nearly as good on their own :)
If you are in a restaurant here and see oysters on the menu - chances are pretty good that Sam has had something to do with it. For more information on how to reach her or for where you can try her product - I've listed some links below:
