Neptune is the kind of old-school joint you'd see in black-and-white movies. And its nostalgic decor--pressed tin ceiling, mirrors, marble-topped tables, dangling bistro lamps--is echoed in the classic Italian seafood menu. But it's far from all-cooked here: Depending on the day, you'll find about a dozen types of oysters on ice, ready to be enjoyed.
Selections hail from nearby waters, but some bivalves fly in from the West Coast, too, so don't be bashful about trying a few varieties. If you want to stick local, look for names like Potter's Pond, Ninigret Pond, Tomahawk, Marion and Martha's Vineyard. These East Coasters should all have smooth shells and a meaty texture.
Neptune is beer-and-wine only, but that's not a problem when your list gets accolades from the likes of Food & Wine. With plenty of nicely priced bottles, you might as well try a few types of vino, too.
Getting There:
Logan International in Boston is the way to fly. Once you're in town, ride the T--Green Line or Orange Line--to Haymarket Station, a couple short blocks away.
Related Stories:
· Neptune Oyster [Official Site]
· Raw Bars coverage [Jaunted]
· Best Raw Bars Map [Jaunted]
[Photo: Boston Globe/Dominic Chavez]
