With enough briny swagger to make the harbour city blush, this festival brings together Sydney Rock Oysters, farmers and shuckers alongside the state’s leading Semillon producers, Shell House’s culinary team, leading sommeliers and selected artisanal distilleries and brewers.
Climb your way through multiple levels of The House tasting the freshest oysters and crispest Semillon, experience oyster shucking demonstrations, masterclasses, a one-day-only special oyster-inspired snack menu, pop-up bars including a martini stand and more.
Front and centre is John Susman AO – Chair of Judges at the Sydney Royal Oyster Competition – hosting a rolling series of masterclasses on how to judge, enjoy, and quietly become the sort of oyster aficionado who says “merroir” without irony. Expect insider tips on what the judges look for, how to spot greatness, and how to talk oysters with confidence (without turning into that person at the table).
Masterclasses across the program include:
Martini & Oyster Masterclass by Archie Rose
A masterclass in making the perfect martini to sit alongside Sydney Rock Oysters. $35 per person
The Perfect Pairing
An exploration of Hunter Valley Semillon and its pairing with merroir-specific oysters, presented by PJ Charteris. $35 per person
Deep Dive into Merroir
A not-to-be-missed exploration of regional impact on the style of oyster led by John Susman AO. $35 per person
For pure theatre: Jimmy and Jonny Yiannaros, legends and multiple-time winners of the Australian Oyster Shucking Competition, will demonstrate how to open 30 oysters in under two minutes, which is less “food prep” and more “Olympic event with knives”.
Add a dedicated Master Shucker Station, where the craft of preparing, opening and serving oysters is on full display, pop-up Martini bars and a one-day-only snack menu by Culinary Director Joel Bickford and Head Chef Jarrod Walsh featuring Raw Beef & Oyster, Potato & Oyster Scallop, Oyster Po Boy & more.
Tickets: $50 + booking fee
Tickets Include: Festival entry, tasting glass on arrival, field guide, Ultimate Oyster 101 compendium and 6 oyster token to be redeemed at Oyster Stations
