Menu of Half Shell Oyster House in Covington, Louisiana, USA

Menu Overview

Half Shell Oyster House in Covington, LA, stands as a shining beacon for seafood lovers seeking quality and authentic Southern coastal flavors. From the moment you step inside, the ambiance is inviting yet intimate, perfect for both casual lunches and special occasion dinners. The menu is a curated celebration of Gulf Coast seafood, centered around standout items like Raw Oysters on the Half Shell and Chargrilled Oysters—both bursting with freshness and expertly prepared.

The oysters here deserve high praise. They capture the briny sweetness of Louisiana waters, served impeccably chilled or sizzling off the grill with savory butter and herbs. The Oysters Rockefeller and the Grilled Oysters deliver depth and richness that reflect time-honored recipes with a modern touch. Another highlight is the Redfish Orleans, which marries the bold flavors of blackened redfish, sautéed Gulf shrimp, and a deliciously creamy Orleans sauce finished with lump crabmeat and Parmesan—a perfect example of creole indulgence.

If you're craving handheld delights, the Fried Gulf Oysters PoBoy is a must-try. Pressed on Gambino’s French bread, it balances crispy oyster meat with fresh, simple garnishes, a true New Orleans-inspired comfort food. The Voodoo Chicken Sandwich offers a sweet and spicy contrast, tossed in their signature sauce and topped with melty cheese on a soft brioche bun, providing a satisfying alternative for those seeking poultry.

Pair your meal with one of their specialty cocktails—the Cajun Oyster Martini, a unique blend of Ketel One Vodka, Zing Zang Bloody Mary mix, and a fresh oyster garnish, is a daring and memorable companion to the seafood fare. The Blackberry Margarita and Caramel Apple Martini both showcase a housemade approach to classic drinks, balancing fruit-forward sweetness and well-crafted sour notes.

Among the sides, the Fried Green Tomatoes & Crab Cakes stand out as perfectly executed bites, offering texture and rich flavor contrasts. And for dessert, the Key Lime Pie delivers a refreshing tang that rounds out the meal with just the right sweetness.

Service at Half Shell Oyster House consistently receives acclaim, with servers who understand the menu intimately and provide thoughtful, warm hospitality. Diners frequently highlight attentive staff like Wendolyn and Ali, whose friendly professionalism enhances the overall dining experience. While some guests note room for improvement in wine selection and occasional service communication, these are minor blemishes in an otherwise stellar experience.

In sum, Half Shell Oyster House excels at delivering fresh, well-prepared Gulf seafood with dishes that respect tradition while embracing a bold Louisiana flavor profile. Whether indulging in the fresh oysters, savoring the complex Redfish Orleans, or enjoying the inventive cocktails, this restaurant earns its place as a coastal culinary gem in Covington.