Heaven on a half-shell: best oyster bars

A subdued 1950s-era elegance combined with a bit of Rat Pack rakishness makes this an inviting venue for slurping oysters, steamed clams, sliders or the chowder du jour. Cocktails and wine. Dinner daily; happy hour and late-night menu.

Known since 1988 as a reliable venue for surf and turf - and especially oysters - this amber-lit homage to Old New York has kept its standards up and its menu current without banishing old favorites. Go for such entrees as the filet Roquefort, alder-planked salmon, Hawaiian opah, pork chop with juniper-blackberry jus and, for lunch, the Kobe beef burger. Open for lunch and dinner.

A great place to be a tourist, especially if you're not. Savor the Pacific oyster sampler, Copper River king salmon, mussels in buttery wine broth with salty fries, fine smoked salmon, swordfish, wines and desserts.

The Oceanaire Seafood Room in downtown Seattle is quickly becoming a premier seafood destination with its well-stocked oyster bar, stylish setting and menu that reflects airfreight's incoming tide.