Oyster Boy image

Oyster Boy

Restaurant Bar Seafood restaurant

Cosy oyster-focused diner with simple wood tables, seafood plates & while-you-watch shucking. People often mention oysters, fresh, great, lobster, Oyster, seafood, service, nice, good, recommend,


Address

872 Queen St W, Toronto, ON M6J 1G3, Canada

Website

www.oysterboy.ca

Contact

+1 416-534-3432

Price rating

$$ $$

Rating on Google Maps

4.60 (1.1K reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Monday: Closed
  • Tuesday: Closed
  • Wednesday: 5 to 10 pm
  • Thursday: 5 to 10 pm
  • Friday: 5 to 11 pm
  • Saturday: 5 to 11 pm
  • Sunday: 5 to 10 pm

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: oysters (47) fresh (19) great (16) lobster (13) Oyster (13) seafood (13) service (13) nice (13) good (12) recommend (12)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 Kim 2 years ago on Google
    SO GOOD! Like we were not expecting it to be this good. We tried a little bit of everything. They have a huge selection of oysters which were all delicious and perfectly shucked. The lobster bisque was amazing. The fish tacos were the best I’ve ever had. The crab cakes and salad were so yummy. Even the desserts were perfect. Seriously nothing but good things to say about this place. The server thought we wouldn’t be able to finish all this food between the two of us but we couldn’t help ourselves! We walked out of here like two huge elephants 😂 we will definitely be back for more!
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 2/5 Adam S. 1 year ago on Google
    Beach Angel oysters are great, that small amount of food tastes good, but the low rating is only for ridiculously small portion of main dishes & fries. Take a look at the last 3 photos, each main dish is $30 to $36 with that little amount. We have to go to another restaurant to fill our stomach
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Margaret W. 2 years ago on Google
    We had a wonderful time at the Oyster Boy. Our server William is excellent and recommended the best oysters on the menu (they were really fresh and sucking good!!!) The Seafood Tower was just perfect for the 2 of us (more oysters, why not!!) I need something warm at the end and ordered the Seafood Chowder. We will definitely come visit again!
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Melvin C. 2 years ago on Google
    I've been wanting to try Oyster Boy for a few years now. Finally got around to it and it did not disappoint. I would have hoped for a greater selection of oysters, but what they did have was excellent. Their cocktail sauce was especially tasty. We also got their lobster bisque and the seared scallops, both of which were good. Between the yummy seafood and friendly service, we can't wait to go back!
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Erez Z. 1 year ago on Google • 566 reviews
    A landmark of Toronto serving little oyster gems for over 20 years. We came in for a full experience with a shocking class and then followed up by a full dinner and drinks. So much fun. Definitely worth the stop. Favorite dish(s) was the shrimp tacos and the lobster mac. Looking forward to the next adventure.

  • 5/5 morteza 5 months ago on Google • 49 reviews
    I booked in advance for my wife's birthday dinner, and let me tell you, it didn’t disappoint. Everything was excellent. Rachel’s recommendation for the food was terrific, and Kingsley’s drinks he brought out were fantastic. I will be back here again to try other things on the menu: 10 out of 10 oysters.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Mat M. 1 year ago on Google
    I loved this place. Simply put, I feel like anything you order here is gonna be great. Prices are fair, portions are decent as well (though i would recommend ordering an appetizer if you are quite hungry or a big eater). One thing I will say, is that for the location (beside Trinity Bellwoods) and for how good it is - the location is SMALL. I'd highly recommend booking reservations to ensure a seat. Food was fresh, presented nicely, and tasted great. I loved the oyster Rockefeller and the fish and chips.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Paul H. 1 year ago on Google
    Best oysters in town. Different options to serve and we loved their Oysters Rockefeller. Baked with fresh oysters! All other seafood dishes are great! Will come back for sure 👍🏼
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 Trekker T. 4 months ago on Google • 96 reviews
    Walked in 3 hours prior to make a reservation. Saw that guy writing it down on the board saying all good. Showed up same guy saying couldn’t find the reservation. That’s incompetence and unprofessionalism #1. Sat down with friend 10 mins in no drink offers nothing. Zero. That’s #2. Ordered lobster poutine which is decent. My friend ordered the steamed mussels which are extremely tiny. 24 raw oysters showed up after we finished the main dishes. What a horrific experience. Definitely not fresh. Tasted funny. We finished half and I couldn’t risk it any further. Never gave us oyster forks. Asked for the bill when there were still 10 untouched oysters or whatever those are on the dish. Same guy handed us the bill. Took away the untouched food and didn’t even bother to ask how was everything. That’s unprofessionalism #Z. Will never ever go back even if it’s free.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Sy F. 9 months ago on Google • 77 reviews
    The seafood tower was amazing! Lobster was fresh, meaty and sweet. Among other food, we also enjoyed five oyster varieties as well as the cheese baked oysters. Overall a pleasant seafood dinner.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Chris Stephan T. 1 year ago on Google
    They have a very nice selection of oysters, which were fresh and juicy. The grilled squid was amazing and so were the steamed clams. Since the restaurant is small and doesn't take online reservations, call and leave a message to reserve your place. It's worth it !!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Scott 3 months ago on Google • 6 reviews New
    Good food and atmosphere. I got the chowder and fish and chips. Large selection of oysters and seafood. Excellent service. Tight seating
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Brad C. 5 months ago on Google
    Truly an wonderful experience at Oyster Boy tonight! Hospitality done at the finest. The service was perfect and the server was even better. Knew how to recommend and nail each dish. Thanks Chef and Cloud Harry nailed this reservation for me.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Janny 1 year ago on Google
    We came here on a weekday, and it was quiet. Between the two of us, we ordered the oysters Rockefeller (6), lobster bisque, lobster mac and cheese, and fried oysters. The app took 30 minutes to come due to several take-out orders, and the server gave us fries to compensate. The Rockefeller oysters have caramelized fennel, wilted spinach, mornay sauce, parm, and cajun gremolata. It was on the saltier side and extra buttery. My preference is to get fresh oysters. The lobster bisque had good flavour and some lobster pieces, but it needed to be creamier. The lobster mac and cheese was the star of our meal. So cheesy, with enough lobster pieces, and the pasta was perfectly cooked. The fries were crispy and on the meatier side. Overall, service was 5/5 - we appreciate the free fries gesture for the delayed service. There was a non-alcoholic mojito for those doing Dry January or want a non-alcoholic option. Accessibility: the door is not automatic, the stools are high, and the floor is slippery for crutches.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Byren I. 1 year ago on Google
    Stopped in for a late evening snack. Loved it. Cozy. Friendly staff and good service. Good playlist. Fish chowder was excellent and my oysters were just what I wanted - small, east coast. Nicely paired with a Grüner Veltliner. Haven't been for quite a few years - don't know why but will definitely try to be back soon.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Marc Robyn D. 1 year ago on Google
    Always a great experience and such a humble east coast ambiance. Amber is a top notch waitress and the food is always worth the trip. Can't wait to make reservations for next time.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Maiesha Z. 2 years ago on Google
    Great staff, delicious food. Haven't had oysters in years and I'm really glad I used this place to break the oyster dry spell. The sparkling champagne was delicious as well. Best fish and chips I've had ever. So smooth and tasty. Well worth the money.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Liron W. 1 year ago on Google
    Had a date with the BFF and we really enjoyed it! We shared the seafood tower and the food was fresh and great. The vibes were cool and the service was good. My only disappointed was that I mentioned I’m lactose intolerant and a butter was served to the table without letting me know and they didn’t have any lactose-free desert - though the chef did try to help with a creative solution and they waited was very nice about it.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Valavan M. 2 years ago on Google
    A great place to enjoy all things seafood. Oysters are superfresh, and a lot of variety as well. We sampled a range of oysters, squid, scallops, tacos, and crab cakes. All items were prepared really well. It is a small place though so reservations are hard to get, and you do have to squeeze in. We will be back for some more oysters!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 Raddo R. 2 years ago on Google
    First time here, came during covid q9 but stage 3 so dine in was possible. First off, reservations are recommended, we unfortunately did not make reservations in advance and the 'hostess' (who really seemed like a server just covering) was pretty rude. Our waitress was pretty nice though so we stayed. Food was delicious, we started woth a dozen oysters and the small ones were amazing! I had the jumbo seared scallops (weren't really jumbo by any means) but still tasty. My friend had the octopus and that was pretty tasty as well. Overall I still enjoyed my time there and might return if I was craving oyster and nearby, otherwise you can get fresh oysters almost anywhere. I still do recommend to those who enjoy oysters and seafood in general to give it a try!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Sean M. 2 years ago on Google
    Love Oyster Boy. The staff is always helpful and very knowledgeable. Being stuck dining at home isn't as nice as being there, but they take the time to set you up to still enjoy your Oysters at home. Great suggestions and excellent quality Oysters. Ordered take out of about 200 Oysters (over the last year) and only came across 1 that I thought might not be fresh. Definitely recommend.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Sarah F. 1 month ago on Google • 137 reviews New
    Wow, I can’t believe I haven’t reviewed OB sooner - huge negligence on my end as it is easily one of my favourite, if not my favourite, restaurants in the city. They have the best oysters and supply many restaurants in the city with theirs - so why not go straight to the source? The menu in full is great from start to finish with fun specials usually in rotation. They also offer an oyster shucking class called Shuck U, that involves a lesson, a dozen oysters, shucking knife, and a shirt - it’s worth every penny and would make an incredible date. Don’t hesitate: go here. Go here often. I love Adam, Claud, and everyone else.

  • 4/5 Anita 1 month ago on Google • 77 reviews New
    My husband and I attended the Shuck U class. We had a great time. The class was informative and interactive. We were able to shuck 12 of our own oysters. The staff were very helpful and knowledgeable. I only deducted a star because I found it a bit pricy.

  • 5/5 Cory P. 3 months ago on Google • 38 reviews New
    Amazing little restaurant. The food was great, the servers were awesome. Shout out, John! As someone with an east coast background, this place felt like home. Great beers and drinks available as well. Would recommend to anyone who likes seafood and oysters.

  • 4/5 Ryan M. 7 months ago on Google • 24 reviews
    We accidentally received steamed mussels when we ordered steamed clams. Staff was quick to apologize for the mix up and even comped us on a couple of oysters. I didn’t expect anything in return so this was very nice of them. Overall the place has fresh seafood and nice/friendly staff but food did take a while to come out

  • 4/5 Splash R. 8 months ago on Google • 16 reviews
    The Oyster selection at this place is exceptional. The staff members are pleasant and friendly, although it's important to be proactive in seeking their service. The Lobster biscuits have a delightful touch, but they could enhance the amount of lobster and reduce the salt a bit for absolute perfection. The taco shells are slightly undercooked and tough, but the overall taste is enjoyable. The restaurant's decor is tastefully done, and even the restroom reflects the attention to detail. It's a delightful spot to visit for oysters, and it's no surprise that it has stood the test of time. Will I return, I would say it's definitely maybe!

  • 3/5 Sean C. 1 year ago on Google
    Overall, the food is great, but the dining experience was disappointing. There was a waitress who claimed that she was not a waitress at the bar with super annoying and huge laughing sounds, which interrupted the customer's conversation each time she laughed. Some tables even pause the conversation and stare at her. Apparently, she doesn't have any self-awareness. Enthusiastic service is one thing, but i believe this is not how you show hospitality. Thumbs down.

  • 3/5 Yuliya P. 2 years ago on Google
    I've had much higher expectations from this place based on rating, praising reviews and their wait time to get a table. Yes, oysters were delicious and fresh. Our waiter was super nice. Seafood chowder was too salty and wasn't creamy ( and had pickled cucumbers in it) Sturgeon seviche was OK, lack in seasoning, nachos were too hard for our taste. Grilled squid was good, fresh and tender but there was some bitter taste in some part of a side dish (cabbage?) Lemon tart was ok.

  • 5/5 Maya R. 5 months ago on Google
    Delicious oysters. Also had lobster bisque, red mullet ceviche, pickerel and scallops. Everything was fresh and incredible. The price was very reasonable for the quality.

  • 5/5 Santhi T. 2 years ago on Google
    Oyster Boy's PEI lobster and oysters transported me back to my dining experience at PEI. It was out of the world, so fresh and juicy. We ordered the seafood platter meant for 2. If you are a heavy eater, you would need to order something else on the side. We ordered beer battered fish and chips. The fish tasted very tender and fresh. The crab cakes were very crispy with lots of crab meat inside. Overall, it was an amazing dining experience. The waiters were very attentive and pleasant.

  • 3/5 Alessia K. 4 months ago on Google
    Food was excellent, everything was fresh and delicious. Ordered the oysters, calamari and fries. Service was below average. Zero attention to detail and you could tell the servers are very inexperienced. We received an incorrect price for a special dish and they didn’t bother to fix it. Wouldn’t recommend if you want a nice night out.

  • 5/5 TPMT A. 2 years ago on Google
    Ordered 50 medium oysters for my friends bday party - have to say I was really impressed. Though they didn’t return my phone call and the order was pretty late, they definitely made up by giving us a few extra and as well as they made the container that it was in pretty special. I’m very happy that we ordered here as the pricing was quite fair. We checked prices at Diana seafood for shucked oysters and they were almost doubled the price, even though at the market they were only less than a dollar each unshucked. This was a very special fancy treat but well worth it. Will definitely come back

  • 5/5 David Tucciarone (Core W. 2 years ago on Google
    This osyer bar seriously is a nice fine dining experience. We sat by the bar and had a really great waitress, and got to view them shucking the oysters. Everyone there is friendly and funny! So many oysters to choose from but I recommend torpedo bay! Also we had the beer fish and chips, and the squid. The ceasers are also really tasty! Thanks Oyster Boy!

  • 5/5 Racquel A. 5 months ago on Google
    I was at a wedding in Hamilton and it was so beautiful! The oysters and service were superb! I was so happy to see that Oyster Boy was catering. We had an outstanding shucker named Miguel, he was informative and knew how to shuck the heck out of an oyster. I was truly impressed as an oyster connoisseur myself. If you're looking for quality and service, look no further!

  • 3/5 terry p. 8 months ago on Google
    Amazing food. Just be prepared for a very slow service. Although our server was nice, she couldn’t help with the long wait on oysters, so I don’t blame her. It took 50 minutes to be delivered to us and then everything else took longer too. We wanted to order more food but we ended up going home instead and order takeout. Not the experience we were looking for.

  • 5/5 Olivia B. 2 years ago on Google
    Absolutely to die for. The food, the wine, the service. I will never have another dine-in experience like this again in my life and I am so glad to have had it at Oyster Boy. The oysters were fresh and fantastic, each dish was beautifully crafted and tasted exquisite and the wines paired with each dish were perfectly picked. If I ever have the chance to go back I will most definitely as well as recommend the place to everyone I can.

  • 5/5 Victoria K. 1 year ago on Google
    The place is one the tastiest I've ever been to. We had our ladies Galentine there set menu - you just can't go wrong with it. Oysters were heavenly, prawns and seabass literally just melt in your mouth. Ofc it was all accompanied by several bottles of prosecco - which made our night even better. Highly recommend!

  • 5/5 Anna P. 2 years ago on Google
    Oyster Boy was booked for our anniversary dinner. It’s been 6 years since we’ve last paid a visit and the quality of food is consistent and has not changed one bit! Our waiter William was amazing, he took note that it was our anniversary and gave us two glasses of complimentary champagne and a small starter. I thought that was a nice touch! It definitely made our night extra special. He also suggested a few main dishes that were his fav and we followed through with his suggestions. I thought that was pretty smart to do so because it speeds up the ordering process if couples are indecisive. FYI- the squid and jumbo scallops are the best dishes on the menu! Of course, when you’re at Oyster Boy, YOU HAVE TO ORDER THE OYSTERS! We ordered two of each kind and can say some West Coast oysters are more on the saltier side. Both West and East coast oysters are good but I prefer East more for my palette. I saw two gigantic filters in the restaurant, it was nice to see some clean ventilation going on. The hostess was also very friendly, I felt bad because not only did she handled the phones, she handled the front-end and she dealt with walk-ins and orders. One lady who was waiting in line and later got told there were no tables for the rest of the night ended up yelling at the hostess but she dealt with it professionally. I reassured her that she was doing a great job. I didn’t get her name but she deserves a raise for doing 5 different jobs on a busy night. Highly recommend Oyster Boy, lovely food and lovely staff. Just maybe reserve a table few weeks in advance to avoid disappointment of not getting a table last minute.

  • 5/5 Saka 2 years ago on Google
    Great selection of oysters, and the server with an accent is a great server. Also did an oyster shucking class which was super fun. Owner is a nice guy. I will definitely buy oysters from them and shuck at home, such a great price. Highly recommend their vinegar sauce and hot sauce.

  • 5/5 Chau P. 1 year ago on Google
    First impressions were a tad chaotic but once seated the dining experience went from strength to strength. We come for the oysters and they were impeccable. Good fresh ingredients speak for themselves and this place is a must for any seafood lover.

  • 5/5 Julia K. 1 year ago on Google
    We celebrated my husband's birthday at Oyster Boy. The owner made the dinner really special with a birthday oyster and pouring us a glass of sparkling wine. Service was great. Food was amazing. Can't remember what it is called but oysters with toppings were incredible (both types on the menu). Highly recommended!


Call +1 416-534-3432 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Payments
    • ✓️ Debit cards
    • ✓️ Credit cards
    • ✓️ NFC mobile payments
  • Offerings
    • ✓️ Beer
    • ✓️ Wine
    • ✓️ Alcohol
    • ✓️ Spirits
    • ✓️ Cocktails
    • ✓️ Small plates
    • ✓️ Healthy options
  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible toilet
    • ✗ Wheelchair-accessible car park
  • Dining options
    • ✓️ Dinner
    • ✓️ Dessert
    • ✓️ Seating
    • ✓️ Catering
  • Service options
    • ✓️ Dine-in
    • ✓️ Delivery
    • ✓️ Takeaway

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