When asking yourself about something to do near me in Austin with a group of friends or family, consider
Ocean Blue Oyster Bar Austin
Why Ocean Blue Oyster Bar Austin is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Ocean Blue Oyster Bar in Austin is a standout seafood destination known for its unique fusion of Asian and Cajun flavors, offering a dynamic culinary experience that makes it a vibrant spot to meet up with friends. Located near downtown Austin on South Lamar Boulevard, this casual yet lively restaurant blends the energy of a sports bar with the refined passion of a Thai restaurant. Its menu features a wide variety of seafood delicacies such as fresh oysters, po'boys, satay shrimp, fried catfish, and crawfish, all crafted daily by seasoned chefs who prioritize freshness and quality. The culinary expertise shines through in each dish, combining traditional techniques with contemporary flair, delivering an authentic journey of taste inspired by the ocean. In addition to a diverse food menu, Ocean Blue offers a curated selection of beer and wine, enhancing the casual dining atmosphere. The environment is well-loved for being clean and welcoming, with friendly and attentive staff who contribute to a pleasant social experience. Whether one is looking to enjoy a hands-on seafood feast or sip drinks with friends in a quirky, energetic setting, Ocean Blue Oyster Bar provides a memorable venue that highlights the best of Austin's eclectic food scene and its fusion flavors.
Here's what people think of Ocean Blue Oyster Bar Austin
As of recent, Ocean Blue Oyster Bar Austin holds a 4.3-star rating based on 1789 reviews.
Reviews of Ocean Blue Oyster Bar reflect a generally positive experience valued by many customers. Patrons frequently praise the outstanding quality and freshness of the seafood, noting that the oysters and unique Asian-Cajun fusion dishes offer a flavorful departure from typical seafood restaurants. The creative fusion menu, including dishes like po'boys and satay shrimp, receives specific applause for its bold flavors and skillful preparation. Positive reviews also highlight the friendly and attentive service from staff, such as Heather and Robert, which adds warmth to the dining experience. Customers appreciate the clean environment and the casual yet vibrant atmosphere that makes it a great spot for gatherings. On the other hand, some negative feedback points to occasional inconsistencies in delivery speed during busy times and a few instances where service might feel rushed. A few guests mention that the bustling nightclub-like atmosphere may not suit everyone’s preference for a quieter dining setting. Despite these minor critiques, the overall consensus remains favorable, with many reviewers expressing their intention to return due to the unique food offerings and inviting vibe. This balanced feedback underscores Ocean Blue Oyster Bar as a celebrated Austin venue that expertly combines quality seafood with a lively dining experience, appealing to those who enjoy adventurous and flavorful cuisine in a casual setting.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Lacie K
This location has a large, open, free parking lot. Calm atmosphere, a fully stocked bar that also has a decent wine selection. The food was okay. I ordered the garlic shrimp platter. My green beans and broccoli were served cold. The garlic bread was hard but the shrimp was really good. The shrimp diablos were good but when they say topped with grilled onions, they meant buried in grilled onions. They were good though. The waitress was polite and attentive. The atmosphere was overall calm with decent music playing.
Angelita Chambers
Trash food, trash service. First red flag should’ve been how empty it was on a Thursday evening. Then waited a while before we were even greeted and seated. Ordered a seafood boil with crawfish, shrimp, potatoes, corn, sausage and eggs. Crawfish was super small and wasn’t coming out of the shell easy. Paid $11.99 per lb and ordered 2lbs. Shrimp was shell and head on; not fresh at all, had an off taste and shell wasn’t coming off easy either. Both were obviously overcooked. Menu stated $17.99 for a dozen shrimp but paid $18.99. All that came with 4 small red potatoes, 4 half of a half of corn on the cob, no sausage even though we ordered it and never got it and was still trying to be charged for it. $1.50 per side included 2 pieces of each side. And 3 eggs that were $2 each. When I informed our waitress we didn’t receive our sausage she stated she didn’t make it the cook did and she’ll let him know. Never accused her for us not getting it or she was the one that made it, was just informing her so she could get it. Waited awhile and still no sausage so asked her how long it takes to make it she said she doesn’t know she’s waiting for it just as much as I am. Smh I didn’t know she was paying for it or eating it too (she wasn’t, sarcasm for her response). To end this experience, me and my kids ended up with bad stomach aches afterwards and you know what comes with that. So overall, definitely don’t recommend whatsoever.
Elizabeth Katz
Ocean Blue Oyster Bar is in the same location as the previous restaurant, “Deckhand.” As I looked at the menu, I noticed many similarities to Deckhand, and I said as much to our server. She replied, “This IS Deckhand!” I didn’t ask further, and my friend and I ordered our lunches. This restaurant is a mix of fresh seafood, some prepared with an Asian flair. They offer grilled, broiled and fried seafood, together with specialty dishes that are more Asian fusion in flavor and style. My friend particularly likes a good curry, so she ordered a yellow curry and I ordered the Swamp curry with shrimp. This curry is a combo of green and red curry. Both were very authentic curries and very good. Most of the extensive menu offers a great variety of seafood, and from previous experiences at Deckhand, I have always had dependably good , and sometimes excellent, seafood. Our server was knowledgeable and friendly and we received attentive service. Amazingly in these times of increasing prices, their prices are very reasonable and well worth the money. I will definitely be back.
Aglae Martinez
Calamari was good with great flavor. We ordered the seafood boil spicy but really should of ordered extra spicy. The shrimp is not by the pound but the snow crab is. The shrimp cocktail is made with small frozen shrimp which don't absorb the great flavor of the cocktail. I had the Tokyo oysters which were good.
Nghia Nguyen
My beautiful friend and I stopped by this establishment thinking we would be rocked by the food. The only thing that rocked us was the oyster and the water. We ordered the oyster po boy, but it seems the chefs wanted to be some poor boys and was cheap on the fried oysters. We got a whole two oysters in our po boys. The hush puppies was quite lacking in flavor and seems like it was bought from dollar general or some sort. The “gumbo” was absolutely garbage and it had a lot of mystery fish in it. We also ordered the drunken sailors, and it seems like the sailor was really drunk, because the food came out with a terrible presentation. Also, the seafood was over cooked and fishy. We also got the combination spring rolls. The spring rolls had barely to no noodles and lacking in the shrimp and pork. It sure was a spring roll, tasted like a fresh spring day with all the vegetables that’s in it. Maybe with a little bit of freshly grass. The only good thing there was the oysters and the cup of tap water. Don’t get anything else! Maybe the ketchup too. Our server was cool though
How to reach Ocean Blue Oyster Bar Austin
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Why Ocean Blue Oyster Bar Austin may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Ocean Blue Oyster Bar Austin with your friends?
If you're looking for an ideal spot to gather a group of friends or family for a memorable meetup, Ocean Blue Oyster Bar in Austin is a standout choice. With a solid rating of 4.3 from nearly 1,800 reviews, it clearly resonates with locals and visitors alike. What makes it so special right off the bat is its unique fusion of cuisines and vibrant atmosphere. Although it presents itself as a classic oyster bar, its menu surprises guests with a blend of Asian, Cajun, and seafood delights — giving everyone something to look forward to. Whether you're hungry for fresh oysters on the half shell or eager to share a flavorful Thai curry, this place delivers an experience that caters to diverse palates. The casual, welcoming environment combined with top-notch service encourages lively conversation and shared enjoyment, making it a natural hub for socializing. Plus, its location near South Lamar ensures easy access without sacrificing Austin’s vibrant, laid-back energy. Gathering at Ocean Blue means you and your friends can indulge in fresh, high-quality dishes while immersed in an atmosphere that’s both comfortable and exciting — perfect for celebrating any occasion or just a fun night out.
What kinds of activities can groups enjoy at Ocean Blue Oyster Bar Austin?
When you bring your friends or family to Ocean Blue Oyster Bar, you're not just coming for food — you're stepping into an experience filled with interactive and engaging activities. To start, the seafood tasting itself becomes an event. Sampling a variety of fresh oysters, including raw shots or those broiled with decadent toppings like crab meat, bacon, and cheese, invites conversation and shared delight over each unique flavor. The menu also highlights seasonal specialties such as crawfish boiled in a rich, house-made Cajun seasoning that’s infused with butter and garlic — perfect for groups eager to dig in and savor together.
Beyond food tasting, Ocean Blue hosts an ideal setting for casual socializing and game watching, thanks to its sports bar vibe. The restaurant marries Thai and Cajun flavors with the ambiance of a lively bar, equipped to screen popular sports events on TV screens, enabling groups to rally behind their favorite teams while enjoying their meal. Bringing friends here during a game night spices up the experience with an electric atmosphere.
Additionally, Ocean Blue encourages flavor exploration by offering diverse dishes beyond the expected seafood, like chicken satay, green curry soup, and po’boys, giving groups a shared culinary adventure across different cuisines. This variety means no one feels limited, making it easier to satisfy various tastes and dietary preferences in your crew. Whether you’re raising a toast over craft beer and wine or diving fork-first into fried catfish, the place supports convivial group dining and creates lasting memories.
Why is Ocean Blue Oyster Bar Austin perfect for group meetups?
Ocean Blue Oyster Bar is designed to accommodate groups comfortably, blending a spacious but cozy interior with a layout conducive to social interaction. The casual décor and relaxed vibe strip away formality, allowing guests to settle in easily without the pressure of a stiff, expensive setting. For groups, this means more room to talk, laugh, and enjoy back-and-forth conversations, which are essential for making meetups feel warm and natural.
The friendly and attentive staff add to the experience, often making groups feel personally welcomed and cared for. Patrons frequently comment on outstanding service, highlighting specific team members who go out of their way to ensure everyone’s needs are met promptly. This attentive approach helps avoid the frustration that can occur in busy, group-centric venues, allowing for a smoother and more enjoyable outing.
Food-wise, the shared-plate concept works wonders for groups, encouraging everyone to order a variety of dishes and share them family-style. This sharing culture sparks interaction and discovery, making dining not just about eating but about exchanging opinions and enjoying tastes collectively. Also, the restaurant’s sourcing of seafood fresh daily guarantees that whatever your group orders arrives at peak quality, heightening your meal time satisfaction.
Finally, Ocean Blue’s vibrant yet unpretentious ambiance makes it a versatile choice whether you’re celebrating a birthday, reunion, or just catching up after a long time. The ability to combine excellent food, drink, casual comfort, and group-friendly service is what truly makes Ocean Blue Oyster Bar a top pick for meetups.
How does the menu at Ocean Blue Oyster Bar Austin cater to diverse tastes?
The menu at Ocean Blue Oyster Bar embraces an eclectic mix of flavors and dishes that reflect both Austin’s multicultural spirit and classic seafood traditions. Its unique selling point is the seamless Asian-Cajun fusion found throughout the offerings. For example, alongside traditional oysters and fried catfish, you’ll find flavorful Thai classics such as green curry soup and tom kha gai, giving adventurous diners a chance to expand their taste horizons.
For groups, this diverse menu is a godsend because it caters to a wide range of preferences and dietary needs. Seafood lovers can enjoy raw oysters, broiled oysters loaded with savory toppings, and fresh crawfish in the house-special Cajun blend. Meanwhile, those leaning more towards Asian cuisine can feast on chicken satay or enjoy curry dishes that pack spice and aroma without overwhelming the palate.
The presence of shareable dishes, like popcorn shrimp and po’boys, creates a lively communal dining experience, encouraging people to try each other’s plates and talk about the different flavor profiles. Moreover, pairings such as French fries alongside seafood favorites offer comfort food familiarity amid the fusion dishes, meeting the tastes of kids or picky eaters too.
This diverse yet cohesive menu structure ensures every guest in the group finds something exciting, making Ocean Blue not just a place for dinner, but a culinary adventure that sparks shared enjoyment.
What makes the atmosphere at Ocean Blue Oyster Bar Austin conducive to memorable meetups?
At Ocean Blue Oyster Bar, the atmosphere is a key ingredient in its appeal for group gatherings. The interior blends the casual feel of a neighborhood seafood bar with touches that reflect its Asian-Cajun culinary theme, resulting in a warm and slightly quirky environment that feels both inviting and unique.
Lighting is comfortably dim but vibrant enough to keep the mood lively, perfect for conversations that flow effortlessly from light chit-chat to deep storytelling. Music and sounds blend into the background, creating an energetic yet unintrusive ambiance that enhances rather than distracts from the gathering.
The restaurant’s layout allows for both medium-sized groups and more intimate clusters to share space without feeling crowded, enabling guests to enjoy their own conversations while still soaking up the venue’s buzz. The lively presence of fellow diners enjoying food and drinks adds a communal network of energy that amplifies the joy of being together.
Additionally, Ocean Blue’s bar area serves as a dynamic space for pre- or post-meal socializing, with a good selection of beers and wine to accompany your festivities. The combination of great flavors, friendly service, and thoughtful atmosphere crafts an experience that’s not just about eating out, but about connecting with friends and family in a vibrant Austin setting.
How does the location of Ocean Blue Oyster Bar benefit group gatherings?
Situated on South Lamar Boulevard, Ocean Blue Oyster Bar enjoys a prime location that balances accessibility and Austin’s iconic cultural vibe. This area is well-known for its eclectic mix of shops, bars, and restaurants, making it a natural destination for groups looking for more than just a meal. The spot’s proximity to downtown means it’s easy for friends traveling from different parts of the city to meet up without hassle.
Its positioning on a well-trafficked yet laid-back street helps create a casual, approachable feel right from arrival. There’s ample parking nearby, which simplifies logistics for group arrivals whether by car or rideshare. This convenience often makes the difference when choosing a venue for meetups, particularly with larger parties or when planning to enjoy an extended evening.
Additionally, being on South Lamar places Ocean Blue Oyster Bar near other entertainment and nightlife options, giving groups the flexibility to extend their outing with a walk to a nearby live music venue, bar, or coffee shop afterward. This connectivity helps keep the energy going and lets your meetup evolve organically, rather than feeling constrained by location.
The blend of accessibility, vibrant surroundings, and the restaurant’s distinct appeal makes Ocean Blue not just a dinner spot but a hub for social activities in Austin.
In conclusion, Ocean Blue Oyster Bar Austin offers an exceptional setting for groups seeking a combination of fresh seafood, adventurous fusion cuisine, and a lively yet comfortable atmosphere. Its unique menu, hospitable staff, and convenient location all harmonize to make meetups with friends and family not just a meal, but a memorable occasion worth repeating. Whether it’s a celebration or casual catch-up, this oyster bar stands out as a top destination in Austin’s culinary landscape.