Throughout my travels, I’ve come to realize that there are certain types of places that tend to make lasting impressions. Places like Roscioli in Rome and Urbanek in Vienna. They tend to follow a straightforward formula of simple food and good wine in an enjoyable atmosphere. Another perfect example of this type of dining destination is Hog Island Oyster Company in Marshall, California.

About an hour or so north of San Francisco in Marin County, Hog Island operates a 160-acre shellfish farm in Tomales Bay. Every year they harvest millions of oysters, clams, and mussels using sustainable farming techniques that not only produce a tastier product, but also take into account the health of the environment and the water in which they grow. Up at the farm, they have a cafe overlooking the bay with picnic tables, some barbecues, and a small bar counter. You can buy a few dozen Sweetwaters to shuck on your own and enjoy raw or grilled. Compliment these sweet, succulent oysters with some snacks from the small, but focused menu including charcuterie, tasty local cheeses and bread, and of course great wine from nearby producers. What more could you ask for?

A dozen BBQ oysters with chipotle bourbon butter

We recently spent an afternoon at the farm shucking some oysters alongside the bay in which they grow, sipping on some local bubbly, and taking in the cool breeze. This is Northern California in all its glory, and a perfect spot for a lunchtime feast. If a picnic at Hog Island sounds like something you may be interested in, we’ll be sure to include it in your Sapore trip to Northern California.