A Shuck Above: How Our Executive Chef Celebrates Oysters for Maine Oyster Fest

June in Freeport is a magical time, made even more memorable by one of the state’s most beloved summer events: Maine Oyster Fest, taking place June 28–29 right here in town. As lovers of all things local — especially when it comes to Maine’s iconic shellfish — we couldn’t resist marking the occasion by talking to the person who knows oysters best at The Harraseeket Inn: our very own Executive Chef, Jeremy Lamoureux at Porter Kitchen + Bar.

When asked about his favorite ways to prepare oysters, Chef didn’t hesitate:

“More often than not, my inclination is to keep it simple when it comes to oysters. They are versatile enough to apply plenty of different cooking techniques, but I like to let them shine on their own.”

For raw oysters, he leans into brightness and heat to enhance their natural briny flavor:

“I’m a big fan of pickled pepper, cilantro and lime. You also can't go wrong with traditional mignonettes flavored with different herbs and spice combinations — shallots, dill, and lemon zest, or pickled beets and horseradish are a couple of examples. Less traditional ingredients I enjoy for oysters include kimchi and bone marrow.”

Feeling adventurous? You might just see one of those make a guest appearance on a future menu.

When it comes to cooked oysters, Chef turns up the creativity:

“Tempura fried with sweet chili sauce, sesame, lime, and cilantro is a great choice. Grilled or broiled, I tend to go heavy on the savory side. I like to top shucked oysters with a compound butter made with roasted garlic and shallots and broil for a minute or two — just enough to set the oysters — then top them with breadcrumbs toasted in bacon fat.”

Savory, smoky, and just a touch indulgent — it’s a true celebration of flavor.

Join Us for Oyster Season
Whether you're headed to Maine Oyster Fest or just dreaming of your next coastal getaway, make The Harraseeket Inn your home base for all things fresh, flavorful, and uniquely Maine. And don’t forget to stop by Porter Kitchen + Bar — Chef might just have something special shucked and ready for you.