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Edgartown › Edgartown › 19 Raw Oyster Bar & Prime Steakhouse
19 Raw Oyster Bar & Prime SteakhouseB+Worth Trying
19 Church St, Edgartown, MA 02539
· Restaurant
· 4.5/5 Google (536 reviews)
Takeout · Outdoor seating
Destination-level oyster bar and steakhouse with creative seafood, lively vibe, and premium prices; food shines most of the time, but service consistency and crowd management can wobble.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
19 Raw Oyster Bar & Prime Steakhouse delivers competitive quality on par with respected local favorites through exceptional food quality—particularly its standout raw bar and creative crudos—and a welcoming patio setting that draws repeat visitors. However, inconsistent execution on doneness and seasoning and variable service attentiveness at peak times prevent it from reaching higher territory. Premium pricing is justified by ingredient quality and creativity, though the buzzy, adult-oriented scene works best for adventurous diners visiting during off-peak hours.
Restaurant Summary
Set in the heart of Edgartown, this spot hums with a lively indoor-outdoor energy where oysters hit the table fast and cocktails clink on the patio. Guests praise friendly, knowledgeable servers, though some report aloof hosting at peak times. One diner put it simply: "The raw bar sparkled and the vibe made our night." The cooking leans contemporary coastal with a creative streak: think pristine oysters, bright crudos, and luxe flourishes like foie and caviar. It is ingredient-driven with smart twists rather than showy theatrics, so seafood lovers and steak seekers both find wins. Most plates land beautifully, but a few reports note oversalting or uneven doneness when the house is slammed. Families will find some approachable options—burger, fries, lobster roll, simple salmon—but there is no clear kids menu and the scene skews adult and buzzy. If your crew is picky, stick to familiar items and early hours; adventurous eaters will have more fun exploring the raw bar and crudos.
At a Glance
- Standout raw bar and creative crudos
- Welcoming patio with lively, fun atmosphere
- Service and host desk can be inconsistent at peak times
- Premium pricing; wine list can feel pricey
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food
What Sets It Apart
- local_oyster_program
- creative_raw_and_crudo
- patio_indoor_outdoor_vibe
What People Love
- Fresh, briny oysters with helpful guidance
- Vivid crudos and tartares with clean flavors
- Fun, buzzy atmosphere on the deck
- Servers who explain allergens and varieties clearly
- Special-occasion moments handled warmly
Points of Concern
- Front-of-house tone can feel curt during rushes; arrive early for smoother seating
- Some plates run salty or show uneven doneness in peak crush
- Pricing is genuinely expensive ($34-$42 mains, $3.95+ oysters)
- Large parties face friction around service breaks and seating policies
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food
- Limited options for conservative palates or picky eaters
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$75-$105 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- Start with a local oyster flight and one crudo to gauge mood and budget
- Share one rich pasta (lobster tagliatelle) with a lighter fish main
- If wine prices bite, consider a cocktail plus by-the-glass strategy
Perfect For
- Early-evening oyster feast on the patio
- Seafood-focused date night
- Vacation splurge dinner with cocktails
- Small celebrations with shared plates
Location Insights
Area: Quaint, upscale island village center serving visitors and summer homeowners; lively in season with a social patio scene.
Safety: Generally safe, well-patrolled tourist center with heavy foot traffic; occasional crowding around peak hours.
Nearby: Near Edgartown harbor, boutiques, inns, and other restaurants; patio seating draws passersby.
EdgartownEdgartown is a historic whaling town with a well-preserved New England charm, featuring cobblestone streets, classic architecture, and a vibrant harbor. The dining scene here includes upscale seafood restaurants, casual eateries, and refined steakhouses catering to both tourists and locals, often emphasizing fresh, local ingredients and waterfront views.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday16:00–21:00
Tuesday16:00–21:00
Wednesday16:00–21:00
Thursday16:00–21:00
Friday12:00–15:00, 16:00–22:00
Saturday12:00–15:00, 16:00–22:00
Sunday12:00–15:00, 16:00–20:00
Available: Takeout, Outdoor seating
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