B&T Oyster Bar: A Culinary Gem (Closed) | Portland Restaurant Review

[UPDATE: B&T Oyster Bar is now closed]

As the days grow shorter and the winter chill sets in, finding a cozy refuge from the elements becomes a top priority. The wind, the rain, and the early darkness can make even the simplest errands feel like a daunting task. But fear not, because I once discovered a delightful haven in the heart of Portland: B&T Oyster Bar (Block & Tackle Oyster Bar).

Nestled among the trendy restaurants, cafes, and local boutiques of SE Division, B&T Oyster Bar offered a unique and inviting atmosphere. Though now closed, the memories of its charm and culinary delights linger.

B&T Oyster Bar was a long, narrow space, bathed in soft, ambient light that instantly transported you to the coast. The nautical-themed décor, featuring fishnet globe lighting and chalkboard drawings of oceanic scenes, created a relaxed and welcoming ambiance. It was the perfect place to unwind with friends after a long day, to kick back, and simply enjoy the moment. The kind of place you could easily lose track of time in, savoring good food and even better company.

I had the pleasure of experiencing their late-night happy hour menu, which was truly a remarkable deal. I wholeheartedly recommended it to anyone looking for a delicious and affordable way to end their evening. On that particular visit, Chef de Cuisine Robert Lucas was kind enough to guide us through the art of shucking oysters – a fun and slightly challenging experience. But rest assured, when you visited, the oysters were expertly pre-shucked for your convenience and enjoyment.

A Look Back at B&T Oyster Bar’s Late Night Happy Hour

Let’s reminisce about the tempting offerings that once graced the late-night happy hour menu at B&T Oyster Bar. While the restaurant is now closed, these memories serve as a testament to the quality and creativity they brought to Portland’s culinary scene.

Raw Oysters on the Half Shell – $2 Each

A cornerstone of any great oyster bar, the raw oysters at B&T were a steal at just $2 each. Served fresh and chilled on the half shell, these briny delicacies were the perfect way to start your culinary journey. A squeeze of lemon or a dash of hot sauce was all you needed to enhance their natural flavors. The freshness and quality were always evident, making them a consistent crowd-pleaser.

Oyster Shooters: $1.50 Each

For those looking for a little extra kick, the oyster shooters were an absolute must-try. At a mere $1.50 each, these tiny glasses of deliciousness packed a flavorful punch. Each shooter featured a fresh oyster swimming in a vibrant mix of sauces and spices, offering a unique and exhilarating taste experience. It was a fun and adventurous way to enjoy oysters, and the price couldn’t be beat.

Crab Hand Roll $6

The crab hand roll was a clear standout, becoming an instant favorite among my companions. These delicate yet satisfying rolls featured a delightful combination of King and red crab, glass noodles, nuoc cham mayonnaise, and yuzu tobiko, all carefully wrapped in delicate soy paper. The flavors were perfectly balanced, offering a harmonious blend of sweetness, spice, and umami. The textures were equally appealing, with the soft crab complementing the slightly chewy noodles and the crispy soy paper. It was a truly exquisite bite.

Tempura Rock Shrimp

My personal favorite from the late-night happy hour menu was undoubtedly the tempura rock shrimp. This dish was a symphony of textures and flavors, featuring crispy, golden-brown shrimp served with two distinct dipping sauces: spicy mayo and wasabi mayo. A side of white soy ponzu, daikon, and herb salad added a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the shrimp. Despite my low tolerance for spice, I found the spicy mayo to be perfectly balanced, adding a pleasant warmth without being overwhelming. The shrimp were fried to perfection, maintaining their succulent texture while offering a satisfying crunch. Every element of this dish worked in harmony, creating a truly unforgettable culinary experience. It was perfectly delicious!

Fish Sandwich (Late Night HH Only) $11

The fish sandwich was a substantial and incredibly satisfying offering, requiring both hands to fully appreciate. This hefty creation featured a beer-battered mahi mahi filet (though the specific fish may have varied depending on availability), complemented by old bay mayo, house-made pickle relish, shaved red onion, and crisp iceberg lettuce. The combination of flavors and textures was simply divine, with the flaky fish, tangy mayo, and crunchy vegetables creating a harmonious symphony on the palate. It was the perfect comfort food for a late-night craving, and the generous portion size ensured that you left feeling completely satisfied.

Also available on the late-night happy hour menu was a refreshing Squid Salad for $8, offering a lighter and more adventurous option.

While not part of the happy hour menu, I can’t resist sharing a photo of B&T Oyster Bar’s Beet Salad ($10), which was a staple on their regular menu. As someone who typically isn’t a fan of beets, I was pleasantly surprised by this inventive and flavorful creation. B&T had a knack for transforming this humble root vegetable into a culinary masterpiece.

This imaginative salad featured heirloom beets, a creamy wasabi ranch dressing, Belgian endive, arugula, green apple, and pumpkin seeds. The combination of sweet, earthy, and peppery flavors was truly exceptional, while the contrasting textures of the crisp endive, crunchy pumpkin seeds, and tender beets added another layer of complexity. It was a dish that completely changed my perception of beets, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a unique and flavorful salad experience.

Happy Hour Drinks

No happy hour is complete without a selection of enticing drink specials, and B&T Oyster Bar certainly delivered in this regard.

$6 Oyster pairing wine glass (5-7pm only)
$2 off Specialty Cocktails (5-7pm only)
$6 High Ball Cocktails (late night only)
$2 off well drinks
$1 off Drafts

Bar Manager Christian Rouillier even shared his recipe for Tanghetto Cocktails, a testament to the creativity and passion that went into crafting the bar’s drink menu. Unfortunately, with the closure of B&T, these delightful cocktails are no longer available.

Final Thoughts (Remembering B&T Oyster Bar)

While B&T Oyster Bar is sadly no longer with us, its memory lives on in the hearts of those who had the pleasure of experiencing its culinary delights and warm hospitality. It was a true gem in Portland’s vibrant food scene, and its absence is deeply felt. I hope this review serves as a fond reminder of the delicious food, creative cocktails, and welcoming atmosphere that once defined this special place. If you ever encounter a similar establishment, be sure to embrace the opportunity to create your own unforgettable memories.

Though B&T Oyster Bar has closed its doors, Portland continues to offer a wealth of exceptional dining experiences. Explore the city’s diverse culinary landscape and discover your own hidden gems. Who knows, you might just find your next favorite spot!

Formerly Located At:
3113 SE Division Street
Portland, OR 97202
503.236.0205
http://www.btoysterbar.com/ (website no longer active)