Locals Claim This Oregon Coastal Seafood Shack Is The Best All-You-Can-Eat In Oregon
Forget what you think you know about coastal dining. Along Oregon’s wild stretch of shore, there’s a place where the rumors of endless, delicious seafood aren’t just myths – they’re a daily reality. Picture this: platters piled high with crispy fish, perfectly fried oysters, and shrimp so fresh you’d swear they jumped straight from the bay.
No frills, just pure, unadulterated oceanic indulgence. According to those who know best – the locals – The Fish Peddler at Pacific Oyster in Bay City isn’t just an all-you-can-eat option; it’s the all-you-can-eat option, hands down the best in Oregon.
The Clam Chowder That Keeps People Coming Back
Perfectly balanced flavor meets tender clam chunks in what might be the most memorable chowder you will ever taste. Served in a bread bowl so crispy and golden it could pass for the bacon of bread, this soup has become the stuff of legend among visitors and locals alike.
The creamy texture wraps around generous portions of clam meat, creating a harmony that makes you understand why people drive hours just for a bowl. Every spoonful delivers that coastal comfort you came looking for.
The seasoning hits just right without overwhelming the natural sweetness of the clams. Whether you grab it as a starter or make it your main event, this chowder proves why The Fish Peddler has earned its place in Oregon seafood history.
Fresh Oysters Straight From The Source
Right next to where oysters get processed, you can watch the magic happen before ordering your own batch. The creamy texture of these bivalves reflects their journey from local waters to your plate in record time.
Some visitors arrive with coolers specifically to haul dozens home, knowing the quality beats anything they could find inland. Fried or fresh, the oyster selection here showcases what makes Oregon coastal seafood special.
Plump and perfectly prepared when fried, they come out golden with a satisfying crunch that protects the tender meat inside. I remember my first visit when I ordered a dozen fried oysters and immediately regretted not getting two dozen, watching other diners enjoy theirs while mine disappeared too quickly.
Dungeness Crab Worth Bragging About
One boyfriend declared it the best Dungeness crab of his entire life, and that enthusiasm speaks volumes. The sweet, delicate meat pulls cleanly from the shell, revealing why this Pacific Northwest treasure commands such devotion.
Fresh catches mean the difference between good crab and unforgettable crab, and The Fish Peddler clearly understands that distinction. Priced fairly for the quality you receive, this crab makes a meal memorable enough to plan future trips around.
The meat stays moist and flavorful, never dry or stringy like lesser preparations. When seafood this good sits in front of you, suddenly that coastal drive feels completely justified.
Fish And Chips Done Right
Crispy batter protects tender white fish in this coastal classic that rarely disappoints. The chips come out hot and satisfying, providing the perfect companion to the main attraction. You cannot really go wrong with this combination when the fish comes straight from nearby waters and gets cooked to order.
While some dishes at seafood restaurants can be hit or miss, fish and chips remains a reliable choice that delivers comfort and flavor. The portions justify the price, especially considering the quality of ingredients involved.
Golden and crunchy on the outside, flaky and moist inside, this dish reminds you why simple preparations often work best with fresh seafood.
The Casual Market Experience
Beyond the restaurant sits a market stocked with fresh seafood, smoked fish, spices, and coastal souvenirs worth browsing. The unpretentious setup lets you focus on what matters most, which is taking home quality seafood to prepare yourself.
Locals know to bring coolers when they visit, planning to stock up on oysters and other catches to enjoy later. Friendly staff help navigate the options without making you feel rushed or overwhelmed. The market atmosphere adds to the authentic coastal experience, reminding you that this place exists primarily to serve people who genuinely love seafood.
Clean facilities and helpful employees make the shopping experience as pleasant as the dining, creating a complete package that tourist traps rarely achieve.
Waterfront Views That Enhance Every Meal
Breathtaking scenery surrounds the dining area, with picnic tables positioned to capture the natural beauty of the Oregon coast. Dog-friendly outdoor seating means your furry companion can join the experience, watching boats and birds while you tackle your seafood feast.
The nearby abandoned jetty adds character to the landscape, creating photo opportunities between bites. When warm weather arrives, indoor seating provides cooler refuge without sacrificing the relaxed vibe. The location on Hayes Oyster Drive puts you right where the action happens, surrounded by working oyster operations and coastal charm.
Views like these remind you why people choose Oregon for seafood adventures, combining natural beauty with culinary satisfaction in one memorable stop.
Affordable Pricing For Fresh Coastal Fare
Meals typically run between ten and twenty dollars, making quality seafood accessible without requiring a special occasion budget. Two people can eat well for around fifty to seventy dollars, depending on choices and appetites.
While some visitors expect rock-bottom prices this close to the source, the value remains solid considering the freshness and preparation quality. Fried oyster prices reflect current market realities, but you still get better deals here than at fancy restaurants farther from the coast.
Half-dozen orders sometimes save a few cents compared to full dozens, rewarding savvy customers who do the math. The combination of reasonable prices and genuinely fresh seafood creates a sweet spot that keeps both tourists and locals returning regularly.
Convenient Hours And Location For Coast Trips
Open seven days a week from nine in the morning until seven or eight at night depending on the day, The Fish Peddler fits easily into coastal road trip itineraries. Bay City sits conveniently along Highway 101, making it a natural stop whether you are heading north or south.
Plenty of free parking eliminates the stress of finding a spot during busy summer weekends.
The extended hours mean you can grab lunch, early dinner, or afternoon snacks without worrying about awkward timing.
Thursday hours run shorter until noon, so planning around that helps avoid disappointment. Located at 5150 Hayes Oyster Drive, the restaurant sits close enough to Portland for dedicated day trips when cravings strike hard enough to justify the ninety-minute drive.