Coming out of their shells

The Gulf may still be suffering the aftereffects of last year’s oil spill, but plump Gulf oysters are still a staple of menus and a favorite of palates all over the South. They might be a little pricier than in previous years, but the sweet and juicy meat makes them well worth the extra cost. Here are a few places you can bite into these briny bivalves:

Acme Oyster House: Tucked away on Perkins Road, this is one spot that knows their oysters—you can shuck and slurp them in nearly every form imaginable, from raw with piquant remoulade sauce, to deep-fried and crispy. Whatever your pleasure, you’re sure to be satisfied by what you find on its menu.

Parrain’s: Just a hop, skip and a jump away from Acme is Parrain’s, which has begun selling its renowned chargrilled oysters. Enjoy the latest spell of unseasonably good weather on the outdoor porch with a platter and a cold beer at happy hour—what could be better?

Juban’s: One of Juban’s most popular appetizer options is the glorious oyster carousel, featuring three rich recipes: the classic Rockefeller and Bienville styles and Juban’s custom Maxwell recipe, with spicy jalapeno, mozzarella and cocktail sauce.

Louisiana Lagniappe: This restaurant on the rise serves up oysters Lagniappe as an appetizer. Fresh Gulf oysters are baked in the shell and served with the house’s special stuffing. For a tasty bonus, they’re topped with jumbo lump crabmeat.

Where’s your favorite place to munch mollusks in Baton Rouge? Let us know in the comments below.