ABOUT TOP GROWN OYSTERS
Where Do We Source Our Oysters?
We source from various oyster farms in Texas, including Big Tree Oyster Company (Rockport, TX), Clearwater Oyster Gardens of Texas (Port Aransas, TX), and Key Allegro Oyster Company (Rockport, Texas). The oysters are raised in floating cages in remote, pristine waters by dedicated farmers. Growing in brackish water, the oysters have a balance of sweetness and brininess with a savory "umami" aftertaste. ​
Employees at the Texas Oyster Ranch handling a floating cage used to raise oysters
Near market-sized farmed Texas oysters
What Does “Top Grown” Mean?
“Top Grown” describes two aspects of the oysters we source:
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We source top quality oysters. Through relationships with local farmers, we ensure only the highest quality oysters, straight from the farm.
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The oysters we source are special in where they spend their lives. Unlike fished oysters, the farmed oysters we source live at the top of the water. Living among the waves keeps them away from mud and tumbles them, giving them a clean taste and a beautiful shell.
Floating cages containing oysters in Copano Bay
About the Owner
Dr. Joey Matt
I've worked closely with oysters since an intern at the Virginia Institute of Marine Science in 2012. I've been hooked by their diverse impacts — of providing healthier bays, bolstering coastal economies, and offering a special culinary experience. When not working with oysters in the hatchery, farm, or lab in Virginia, I was helping my dad sell oysters from his farm in the Chesapeake Bay. Now as a Texan, I am still striving to advance both the scientific and business aspects of oyster mariculture as a PhD research associate at Texas A&M University - Corpus Christi.
Top Grown Oysters gives me the opportunity to do two things I love: serve great oysters and talk about why oyster farming can be good for the planet.
