The history of oysters rockefeller: The FAMOUS NEW YORK FOOD

An image of an oyster on a halfshell before coming an oysters rockefeller dish

The history of Oysters Rockefeller

Can you name a food that is more of an acquired taste than Oysters Rockefeller? I can not. While foods like Chicken Parm and Noodles are enjoyed by all ages, oysters are often enjoyed by older folks. But what if you put spinach on your oyster? That gets even older. So how did this sometimes polarizing food literally build New York City? Ultimate Food Tours investigates:

Oysters have long been a staple in the area now known as New York City. The Lenape tribe, the original inhabitants of the region, harvested oysters for sustenance, recognizing their abundance and nutritional value. As European settlers arrived, they too embraced oysters as a source of nourishment, enjoying them as a cheap and readily available meal. In fact, in the 1600’s, you could see stacks of oyster shells on the coast of Manhattan. They were the original fast food of America, enjoyed by people from all walks of life.

But what exactly is the story behind Oysters Rockefeller? Created in the late 19th century at Antoine's Restaurant in New Orleans, this decadent dish features oysters topped with a rich and flavorful blend of herbs, butter, and breadcrumbs, then baked to perfection. While its origins may lie in the South, Oysters Rockefeller quickly found a devoted following in New York, where they became synonymous with luxury and indulgence. The Oysters Rockefeller recipe that you see today features both nods to the past and modern innovations on this classic New York Food dish.

Today, Oysters Rockefeller continue to delight diners across the city, offering a tantalizing glimpse into New York's culinary heritage. Cull & Pistol in the Chelsea Market does a great version of their Oysters Rockefeller recipe. Whether enjoyed as an appetizer or the star of the show, these sumptuous mollusks never fail to impress.

Discover More of New York's Culinary Delights

Ready to explore what other culinary treasures New York has to offer? Dive into our learning hub to uncover the secrets behind what foods New York is famous for. From iconic dishes to hidden gems, there's always something new to discover in the Big Apple. And for those of you who like to cook, here is an Oysters Rockefeller recipe for you to try.