The atmosphere at The Oyster Shack is truly lovely — the decor and Caribbean-inspired style are beautifully done and set a great tone for the evening. However, the food didn’t quite live up to the setting.
The octopus dish was especially disappointing: the portion was very small, and the combination with barbecue sauce felt like a strange choice that didn’t complement the seafood well.
On a more positive note, the ceviche was delicious, and I would recommend it.
We also wanted to order a dozen local oysters, which the host had recommended, but were told they were out of stock. It left us wondering whether they ever had them at all, or if it was just a tactic to push guests toward pricier options — unclear, but disappointing nonetheless.
Unfortunately, based on our experience, we don’t feel the desire to return.
I’m a recurring customer of this restaurant. I come to San Juan every year and I always go to this restaurant for great sea food.
But, tonight was very different.
My scallops and crudo salmon were way different from December 2024.
Told the manager about this and showed him pictures of the difference.
He sent back the food and the re-fresher was way from the quality of 2024.
Sorry to say but this place has lost its quality after management change.
Parking is near impossible… now that the negative is out the way…
Their fresh oysters, shucked right at the bar, worth it. Try their spicy vinegar, takes the raw bar to the next level. Pulpo (octopus) ceviche was perfect.
Cute seating outside facing the street if you want to people watch. I didn’t see the upstairs but that’s also all option. I sat at the bar, gentleman who served me was attentive and kind, even while taking all the raw bar orders for the whole restaurant.
(I do wish the drinks were a bit stronger)
Was recommended to come here by one of the locals whom knows the owner of the bar. I’m glad I took the chance and came. First off when you walk in, it gives Caribbean tiki vibes. It was so welcoming. The bartenders Javier and Lucky gave the best recommendations. I had the painkiller, frozen, to drink and the octopus tentacle. The oysters were divine. Whether you are coming for a date night, or just to sit at the bar and kick it, I highly recommend this place. I will definitely be coming back. 1000/10 will recommend.
Food was excellent. Out server Karlelise A. was friendly and eager to help understand the menu. We are visiting from Colorado and this was our first Puerto Rican experience. 🔥❤️🔥❤️
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Артем Павлушин
5 months agoThe atmosphere at The Oyster Shack is truly lovely — the decor and Caribbean-inspired style are beautifully done and set a great tone for the evening. However, the food didn’t quite live up to the setting. The octopus dish was especially disappointing: the portion was very small, and the combination with barbecue sauce felt like a strange choice that didn’t complement the seafood well. On a more positive note, the ceviche was delicious, and I would recommend it. We also wanted to order a dozen local oysters, which the host had recommended, but were told they were out of stock. It left us wondering whether they ever had them at all, or if it was just a tactic to push guests toward pricier options — unclear, but disappointing nonetheless. Unfortunately, based on our experience, we don’t feel the desire to return.
fredz björk
2 months agoI’m a recurring customer of this restaurant. I come to San Juan every year and I always go to this restaurant for great sea food. But, tonight was very different. My scallops and crudo salmon were way different from December 2024. Told the manager about this and showed him pictures of the difference. He sent back the food and the re-fresher was way from the quality of 2024. Sorry to say but this place has lost its quality after management change.
T Garcia
a month agoParking is near impossible… now that the negative is out the way… Their fresh oysters, shucked right at the bar, worth it. Try their spicy vinegar, takes the raw bar to the next level. Pulpo (octopus) ceviche was perfect. Cute seating outside facing the street if you want to people watch. I didn’t see the upstairs but that’s also all option. I sat at the bar, gentleman who served me was attentive and kind, even while taking all the raw bar orders for the whole restaurant. (I do wish the drinks were a bit stronger)
Kathryn-Kelly Olin
3 months agoWas recommended to come here by one of the locals whom knows the owner of the bar. I’m glad I took the chance and came. First off when you walk in, it gives Caribbean tiki vibes. It was so welcoming. The bartenders Javier and Lucky gave the best recommendations. I had the painkiller, frozen, to drink and the octopus tentacle. The oysters were divine. Whether you are coming for a date night, or just to sit at the bar and kick it, I highly recommend this place. I will definitely be coming back. 1000/10 will recommend.
Bob Sandman
a month agoFood was excellent. Out server Karlelise A. was friendly and eager to help understand the menu. We are visiting from Colorado and this was our first Puerto Rican experience. 🔥❤️🔥❤️