Maizuru rock oysters are a celebrated summer seafood specialty from Maizuru, in northern Kyoto Prefecture. Although oysters are often associated with winter, that season is mainly for Pacific oysters. Rock oysters, by contrast, are at their best in summer.
Maizuru’s rock oysters feed on abundant phytoplankton in the surrounding waters, allowing them to grow larger than Pacific oysters. They are prized for their generous size and rich, full-bodied flavor.
Oysters are often called the “milk of the sea” because they contain a variety of nutrients, including amino acids and minerals. They are particularly rich in taurine and zinc. Taurine plays a role in various bodily functions, while zinc supports metabolism and normal immune function.
Every summer, Maizuru holds a Rock Oyster Rice Bowl Campaign, during which participating restaurants serve their own original rice bowl dishes featuring locally harvested rock oysters. It is a wonderful opportunity to discover the area’s seasonal seafood through a variety of creative preparations.
June to August