Rough in character, soft at heart.
Oysters in Coburg? Yes. And they aren't a delicacy for the rich – they're living creatures with a fascinating story, and a pleasure everyone should try once.
Our oyster: Oysrí
Oysrí comes from the Irish word for oyster. A rock oyster from Dungarvan Bay on Ireland's south coast, MSC-certified. Salty, mineral, with firm flesh and a gently sweet finish.
What an oyster is
- A living creature that filters seawater – up to around 190 litres a day (a peak value, measured in the American oyster).
- Meroir rather than terroir: an oyster tastes of its bay. Sweeter in summer, saltier in winter.
- From seed to plate takes several years – three to four, according to the grower.
Fresh or not at all
We don't keep oysters in stock. They arrive fresh every other day and we serve them on the first and second day. When they're gone, they're gone – so there aren't oysters every evening. Just ask when you book or at the table.
Your first oyster
- Smell it. It should smell of the sea, not of fish.
- Slurp it, together with the water in the shell.
- Chew briefly. Only then do you taste the bay.
Our house recommendation – and Lisa is happy to talk you through it at the table.
Frequently asked questions
How do you eat an oyster?
Smell it first – it should smell of the sea. Then slurp it together with the water in the shell, chew briefly and let the taste of the bay come through. Lemon is optional.
What is a rock oyster?
The rock oyster (Pacific oyster) grows faster and is hardier than the European flat oyster. It can be enjoyed all year round and tastes a little lighter.
What does meroir mean?
Just as wine tastes of its soil, an oyster tastes of its bay. Water, currents and food shape its flavour – that is called meroir.
Where do the oysters at Lisa Marie in Coburg come from?
Lisa Marie, at Steingasse 14 in Coburg, serves Oysrí: rock oysters from Dungarvan Bay on the south coast of Ireland. Oysrí is the Irish word for oyster, and the oysters are MSC-certified.
Does Lisa Marie always have oysters?
Not always. Lisa Marie at Steingasse 14 in Coburg gets its oysters fresh every other day and serves them on the first and second day. Once they're sold out, there are none until the next delivery – best to ask when you book.