Raw & gourmet cooked oysters – with craft beers & bottled cocktails at upbeat neighbourhood oyster bar
February 3rd, 2016
Update: July 9th, 2016 The Walrus has closed
A time-honoured indulgence, oyster bars have enjoyed popularity in Europe and America since the 19th Century, and in recent years a new generation of restaurateurs and chefs have elevated the experience adding modern culinary influences and contemporary dining aesthetics. Very much on-trend, The Walrus opened last year in Hong Kong’s uber-hip Soho – PMQ neighbourhood, adding a fashionable update on the classic oyster bar with its artful melding of chic dive bar vibe and creative culinary technique. Occupying a compact street front space, The Walrus is popular for both early evening oysters and drinks, or casual dining. In addition to selections of imported oysters – globally sourced for seasonal freshness – the kitchen also serves up a variety of comforting seafood dishes and snacks, while the drinks list includes craft beers, wines, and in-house bottled cocktails – designed specifically for pairing with seafood flavours.
Design Taking inspiration from classic seaside oyster shacks, the design deftly marries nautical with industrial chic to create a stylish yet unpretentious ambience. Nautical references include the marine blue facade edged with brass, internal porthole windows, and custom-made rope light pendants suspended from the ceiling. A large sculpted octopus tentacle protruding from the exterior adds a whimsical element, while the salvaged timber board flooring, rendered concrete surfaces and rustic timber and steel furnishings add a utilitarian feel.
Oysters Freshly shucked on site, raw oysters are at the core of the seafood menu. In addition to the natural oysters served with house sauces, “signature” raw oysters elevate the experience with creative gourmet toppings like with That 70s Shell – served with molecular caviar of umeshu plum wine, salmon roe, edible pansy flower. Cooked oysters are another specialty, try the signature Miso Hot – served with miso sauce, sesame, and fried kale. And for dessert, the Sweet Deception features a white chocolate “oyster” shell, sea-salt caramel ice cream, and chocolate dustings.
Drinks In addition to a well-curated selection of craft beers, champagne and wines, The Walrus serves a variety of stellar cocktails created and bottled in-house by the team at nearby sister cocktail bar The Woods. Crafted for casual drinking straight from the bottle, and with flavours to complement the seafood, signature cocktails include the Tom Yum Me with its spicy Thai inspired taste profile.
The Walrus opens Monday to Saturday from 6pm – the compact space seats up to 35 guests – walk-in only with no reservations. An intimate space on the mezzanine level – The Captain’s Table – can be booked for small parties of up to 8 diners. Details on regular special events are found on the Facebook Page.
