March is officially in full swing, and, while we’re not quite ready to say hello to autumn just yet, there is one particular reason why we’re thrilled that the third month of the year is upon us — Bluffies! It is at this time of the year that ocean delicacies that are Bluff oysters, in all their delicious, refreshing, slurpable glory, are finally in abundance, and we plan on making the most of it. For those who are partial to a Bluffie or two, we suggest you take a look at our list below. These are the places in Auckland really doing the season justice.
Bivacco
What better way to celebrate Bluffie season than at this stunning Viaduct Harbour spot? Here, in the Bivacco restaurant you can enjoy half a dozen natural Bluff oysters for $25, or a dozen for $50, or have them served battered with Guindilla mayonnaise for $27.50 or $55 respectively. Taking its offering one step further, the clever culinary team at Bivacco has also dreamt up a special dish for the Bivacco Bar. This mouthwatering Crispy Bluff Oyster Sandwich with horseradish and iceberg is the perfect way to mark the season in style.
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Depot
With its reputation for being home to some of the City’s finest seafood dishes, it comes as no surprise that Depot will be shucking Bluffs this season. As fresh as they come, and served in the most liveliest of locations, these are as good as it gets.
Advieh
Advieh, the exceptional new Middle Eastern eatery sitting pretty within the new InterContinental Auckland, is shucking Bluff oysters this season. With sprawling views of Waitematā Harbour, this is a more than perfect spot to park up and enjoy these tasty morsels, priced at $8.5 each, or $100 for a dozen.
Soul Bar & Bistro
Adding to an already extensive list of reasons to visit Soul, the Viaduct Harbour stalwart is offering Bluffies this season, serving them up alongside their extensive list of libations and delicious menu. Unfortunately, the all-you-can-eat event has been and gone (you’ve got to be quick around here), but, catch dependant, Soul will be well stocked for the season ahead.
Jervois Steak House
While, more often than not, it’s the delicious carnivorous offering that draws us in to Jervois Steak House, the clever team in the kitchen also knows a thing or two about seafood. As well as their new acqua pazza market fish and much-loved whitebait, prawns, scallops and more, here you’ll find freshly-shucked Bluffies (catch dependant) on offer.
The Glass Goose
City-siders will do well to make for The Glass Goose this Bluffie season, where you’ll be met with an exceptional price on the delectable delicacies. Here, you’ll find a dozen for a modest $40 (!!!) — served au naturel with mignonette, and best when paired with a crisp glass of Mumm. Divine.
Gochu
Offering an entirely unique take on Bluff oysters, Korean eatery Gochu — known for their modern take on authentic Seoul flavours, is serving the delicacy with kimchi juice, leek oil, and pickled radish, for $7 each.
Andiamo
Herne Bay favourite Andiamo is adding oysters to the mix this season, available on a first-come, first-served basis (as they are known to fly out the door here!). Head along at lunchtime, try your luck at securing a dozen, and indulge in the delicious Autumn lunch menu while you’re there.
Non Solo Pizza
Head to our favourite Parnell dining institution to indulge in the best of the season, before enjoying one of NSP’s signature Italian long lunches or tasty dinners. Here, you can order either half a dozen or a full dozen (for $25 and $50 respectively), which will be served natural with either mignonette & lemon or Bacio Del Limone Granita. Or, you can order your Bluffies to come battered with a delicate lemon aioli. Perfection.
Billypot
For those who are craving the delicacies but are low on time and simply can’t commit to a long lunch, Auckland Fish Market’s Billypot has you covered. Freshly shucked to order and takeaway-friendly, you can take these Bluffies wherever you like, for $7 each, or $60 a dozen.
