Opened just three years ago on a corner of Newport, Rhode Island’s vivacious Thames Street, Midtown Oyster Bar has quickly established itself as a city fixture. Partially constructed and furnished with materials found in old factories across New England and New York, its old-meets-new atmosphere is as welcoming as its oysters are good (that is to say, very).  

Photo via Midtown Oyster Bar

Some say that oysters are best eaten in the cold-watered winter months, when their merroir is at its best- but those people might not have been here. There’s something to be said for seasonal ambience, and I just can’t think of a better way to spend a late summer afternoon than on one of Midtown’s two rooftop decks with a half-dozen local oysters on the table. From Wellfleet to Cotuit, they regularly offer some of this region’s best-loved varieties, and I really love that the ever-changing oyster list includes a flavor profile for each one.

Photo via Midtown Oyster Bar

Pair that with champagne, stout, or rosé to complement, and honestly, what more could you want? I’ve never been anywhere else that does oysters and joie de vivre quite like Midtown Oyster Bar in the summertime. When the weather cools off and the decks are closed, though, there’s still the gorgeous raw bar to look forward to, and I’ll be heading there for sure.