03 Dec 2024
A spotlight on Manchester's The Oystercatcher
In the heart of Chorlton, you’ll find The Oystercatcher – a very casual neighbourhood bistro, serving up deliciously done seafood in an unassuming facade. A true gem of Manchester’s hospitality scene, The Oystercatcher is churning out great reviews and making ripples across the city’s foodie landscape, proving that they really have struck a chord with Mancunians.
From the outside, The Oystercatcher emits classic bistro vibes with intimate seating, warm lighting, and rustic wooden floors. The vibe is set for date night or cosy catch-up, with the rest of the world left out of sight and out of mind at the door. Quiet yet affordable sophistication and attention to detail are key factors to The Oystercatcher’s success.
It’s hard to pass on a glass of wine to start your evening here. The selection is concise, leaving no room for indecisiveness. A French or Italian white or rosé to accompany your seafood starters is always welcome, or perhaps something stronger in the form of an aperitif Kir Royal or Negroni, or even a Bloody Mary oyster shooter if you really dare.
On to the menu – as you would expect, this is the place for seafood lovers. From succulent oysters to perfectly grilled fish, each dish is crafted with precision and expertise, earning The Oystercatcher a reputation as a haven for seafood aficionados. Working with such fresh seafood and sourcing only the finest ingredients, the menu is ever-changing to keep it seasonal, though you can usually expect to see similar culprits such as their natural oysters with shallot vinegar, moules frites, grilled tiger prawns, and beer-battered fish & chips. If you’re really lucky, you’ll dine on a day with their King of the Sea Turbot, whole lobster, or crab ravioli.
The grill section of the menu never fails to appease. The kitchen uses an Inca grill for the likes of their Monkfish tail in tandoori spices (a signature dish and a favourite amongst regular diners), as well as their whole seabream with salsa verde, and squid in romesco sauce.
Presentation is important at The Oystercatcher, while not only ensuring each ingredient is shining in their own right, it’s plated to perfection too – you eat with your eyes before it melts in your mouth.
Though the main menu may change daily, The Oystercatcher’s moreish desserts are a constant. Chocolate pistachio brownie with a vanilla ice cream, raspberry creme brûlée, or their affogato with Frangelico are all perfect choices to round out your seafood feast. Or, opt for a palate cleanser of Ginger Comfort Emporium’s sorbet before diving into a cheese platter with apricot chutney.
With no individual main over the price of £15, The Oystercatcher is simply an anomaly of impeccable quality at an affordable price. The casual inviting setting and revolving menu make it viable to visit multiple times in a short period, with something new and exciting every time. We really can’t recommend a trip to The Oystercatcher for your next night out enough!
You’ll find The Oystercatcher at 123 Manchester Road, Chorlton M21 9PG, open seven days a week from midday. Make sure to reserve your table so you don’t miss out!