Rhode Island is world-renowned for its stunning coastlines, rich maritime history, and, most importantly, its exceptional seafood. Tucked away on the scenic Potter Pond in South Kingstown, Matunuck Oyster Bar stands as a premier destination for seafood lovers. Known for its “pond-to-plate” concept, this iconic restaurant serves up some of the freshest oysters and seafood dishes you can find anywhere in New England.
Whether you are a local resident or a traveler planning your next coastal dining adventure, knowing what to expect on the menu can make your visit even more enjoyable. In this guide, we will provide a comprehensive look at the Matunuck Oyster Bar menu and prices, highlighting signature dishes, raw bar favorites, and essential tips for your dining experience.
📌 İçindekiler
- The Matunuck Oyster Bar Experience: Farm-to-Table & Pond-to-Plate
- Matunuck Oyster Bar Menu and Prices Breakdown
- 1. The Raw Bar
- 2. Appetizers and Soups
- 3. Signature Entrees
- Popular Menu Items and Estimated Pricing
- Exploring Rhode Island's Culinary Scene
- Tips for Visiting Matunuck Oyster Bar
- Can you buy Matunuck oysters to take home?
- Is there a dress code at Matunuck Oyster Bar?
- Are there vegetarian or gluten-free options available on the menu?
The Matunuck Oyster Bar Experience: Farm-to-Table & Pond-to-Plate

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What sets Matunuck Oyster Bar apart from other seafood restaurants is its commitment to sustainable aquaculture and agriculture. Founded by Perry Raso, the restaurant harvests its own signature Matunuck Oysters directly from Potter Pond, located right outside the dining room windows. Additionally, many of the vegetable sides and herbs used in the kitchen are grown at the restaurant’s organic farm nearby.
The atmosphere perfectly balances casual coastal charm with upscale dining. You can enjoy a seat at the lively outdoor patio bar during the warmer months, or cozy up in the warm, wood-accented dining room during the winter.
Matunuck Oyster Bar Menu and Prices Breakdown
📌 İlginizi Çekebilir: The District Menu and Dining Information
The menu at Matunuck Oyster Bar is diverse, catering to raw bar enthusiasts, seafood lovers, and even those who prefer land-based options like steak and chicken. Because seafood prices can fluctuate based on season and market availability, the prices listed below are estimated averages to help you budget for your visit.
1. The Raw Bar
You cannot visit Matunuck without ordering from the raw bar. The oysters are harvested daily, offering a crisp, briny flavor that defines Rhode Island seafood.
- Matunuck Oysters: Locally grown, clean, and sweet with a briny finish. (Approx. $3.00 each)
- Wild Littleneck Clams: Freshly shucked and served cold. (Approx. $2.00 each)
- Jumbo Shrimp Cocktail: Served with a house-made spicy cocktail sauce. (Approx. $4.00 each)
- Oyster Trio: A sampler featuring different prepared oysters, such as Rockefeller and Grilled. (Approx. $18.00)
2. Appetizers and Soups
Before diving into the main course, warm up with classic New England chowder or crispy local calamari.
- New England Clam Chowder: Creamy, rich, and loaded with fresh clams and potatoes. (Approx. $8.00 cup / $10.00 bowl)
- Rhode Island Calamari: Lightly battered and tossed with hot cherry peppers and garlic butter. (Approx. $17.00)
- Stuffies: Traditional stuffed clams with chorizo, herbs, and breadcrumbs. (Approx. $7.00 each)
3. Signature Entrees
From perfectly toasted lobster rolls to premium steaks, the main entrees showcase the kitchen’s culinary expertise.
- Matunuck Lobster Roll: Generous chunks of fresh lobster meat, served hot with melted butter or cold with seasoned mayonnaise on a toasted brioche roll. (Market Price, usually around $34.00 – $42.00)
- Sesame Seared Yellowfin Tuna: Served with jasmine rice, ginger-soy glaze, and fresh farm vegetables. (Approx. $36.00)
- Grilled Ribeye Steak: A great land option served with farm-fresh potatoes and vegetables. (Approx. $42.00)
Popular Menu Items and Estimated Pricing
To help you plan your meal, here is a quick-reference table featuring some of the most popular items found on the Matunuck Oyster Bar menu:
| Menu Category | Item Name | Description | Estimated Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Raw Bar | Matunuck Oysters | Harvested fresh from Potter Pond. Crisp and briny. | $3.00 each |
| Appetizer | Rhode Island Calamari | Tossed with cherry peppers and garlic butter. | $17.00 |
| Soup | New England Clam Chowder | Creamy broth loaded with tender clams. | $8.00 (Cup) |
| Entree | Lobster Roll (Hot or Cold) | Served with fresh hand-cut fries or coleslaw. | Market Price (Approx. $36.00) |
| Entree | Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes | Pan-seared crab cakes served with remoulade. | $32.00 |
| Dessert | Warm Apple Crisp | Made with local apples and vanilla bean ice cream. | $9.00 |
Exploring Rhode Island’s Culinary Scene
While Matunuck Oyster Bar is undoubtedly a crown jewel of South County’s coastal dining, Rhode Island’s food scene has plenty of other incredible culinary landscapes to explore. If you find yourself heading north toward Providence, you can experience a completely different vibe. For instance, you can dive into a creative and eclectic brunch by checking out the Julian’s Menu and Prices. Alternatively, if you are looking for an upscale, romantic Italian dining experience featuring exquisite wine pairings and handcrafted pastas, you should explore the Bacaro Menu and Dining Information.
Tips for Visiting Matunuck Oyster Bar
Because of its stellar reputation and gorgeous waterfront views, Matunuck Oyster Bar is incredibly popular year-round. Here are a few tips to ensure your visit goes smoothly:
- Make Reservations Early: Tables fill up fast, especially during the summer weekends. Book your table online weeks in advance if possible.
- Try the Outdoor Bar: If you don’t have a reservation, the outdoor oyster bar and patio operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Arrive early to secure a spot.
- Take the Farm Tour: During the warmer months, Perry Raso often hosts tours of the oyster farm. It is a fantastic educational experience that makes eating the oysters afterward even more meaningful!
Whether you are sitting by the water sipping a cold craft beer with a dozen fresh oysters, or indulging in a rich, buttery lobster roll, Matunuck Oyster Bar delivers an authentic taste of Rhode Island that you won’t soon forget.
Can you buy Matunuck oysters to take home?
Yes! Matunuck Oyster Bar offers fresh, unshucked oysters for purchase by the dozen or in larger quantities, allowing you to enjoy their signature pond-to-plate taste at home.
Is there a dress code at Matunuck Oyster Bar?
The dress code is casual to smart-casual. While many guests dress up slightly for dinner, casual coastal attire—such as shorts, sandals, and t-shirts—is perfectly acceptable, especially during daytime dining on the patio.
Are there vegetarian or gluten-free options available on the menu?
Yes, the restaurant accommodates various dietary needs. Many of the raw bar items and salads are naturally gluten-free. Additionally, since they operate their own vegetable farm, there are always fresh, vegetarian-friendly sides and salads available on the seasonal menu.
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