Speaking of the upcoming mega oyster saloon at the New Amsterdam Market April 9th (got your tickets yet?), out on Long Island, there’s a brand new bivalve you should get used to hearing about: Peconic Pearls. Just like their name suggests, they’re a glistening specimen in a shell. And what’s more, they’re helping to restore a once-thriving hatchery on Peconic Bay thanks to committed farmer Karen Rivara. (You’ll be able to read about both in our sister publication Edible East End this summer). But for the rest of the month, you can enjoy them as the April pick at the Grand Central Oyster Bar, where executive chef Sandy Inger offers 30 oysters on its daily roster.
These Peconics, says Inger, have a medium-salty brine, are “tremendously full” and just plain “wonderful tasting.” We’d have to agree as we’ve sampled them a la Rockefeller, in a shooter and simply on the half shell at their unveiling this January. Plus, since part of the proceeds from your purchase of each $2.35 oyster goes directly to the Peconic Land Trust’s continued conservation efforts to restore the bay, “buying this oyster is like putting back what is given to us,” he adds. Do your part by dialing 212-490-6650 and making a reservation.
