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Cull & Pistol Oyster Bar
Master Critic Review
Cull & Pistol Oyster Bar
8.5
A raw‑bar‑focused seafood hall inside Chelsea Market serving dozens of oyster varieties, lobster rolls, and seasonal seafood in a lively, casual‑elegant setting. Locals and visitors choose it for fresh catch and reliable execution. The menu balances approachable dishes (fish & chips) and premium items (uni, diver scallops).
Must-Try Dishes:
Dozen East Coast Oysters, Connecticut-style Lobster Roll, Live Diver Scallops
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.9
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 7.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: Raw‑bar depth and fresh seafood from a top NYC market.
Who should go: Oyster lovers and seafood diners seeking variety.
When to visit: Weeknight dinner or weekend lunch.
What to order: Oysters sampler, lobster roll, diver scallops.
Insider tip: Hit the half‑price oyster happy hour (Mon–Fri, 4–6 pm).
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is available but can be challenging, especially on weekends. Public transportation is recommended.
Dress code: Smart casual – jeans are acceptable, but lean toward dressy for a more polished look.
Noise level: Moderate – the lively atmosphere can make conversation a bit challenging, but still manageable for a date or group outing.
Weekend wait: Expect a 30-45 min wait without a reservation, especially during peak hours.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait, though it can get busier during lunch rush.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited – the menu is predominantly seafood, but there are a few vegetarian-friendly sides and salads.
Vegan options: Limited – options include some salads and vegetable-based dishes, but the focus is on seafood.
Gluten-free options: Yes – gluten-free options are available, with some dishes specifically marked on the menu.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, it's ideal for a first date, offering a lively yet intimate setting. The fresh seafood and casual-elegant vibe make it a great conversation starter, especially if you're both fans of seafood.
Can I get a table without a reservation? While reservations are recommended, especially for weekend dinners, it's possible to get a table without one, though you may face a longer wait. Try visiting during off-peak hours for a better chance of seating.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes, it’s suitable for families with older kids who enjoy seafood, though younger children may find the bustling atmosphere less appealing. High chairs are available.
Best For
Better for: Better for seafood enthusiasts and those looking for a vibrant atmosphere with great variety in oysters and raw bar options.
Skip if: Skip if you're looking for a quiet, serene dining experience or prefer more diverse non-seafood menu options.
Hours
Monday11:30am - 9pm
Tuesday11:30am - 9pm
Wednesday11:30am - 9pm
Thursday11:30am - 9pm
Friday11:30am - 9pm
Saturday11:30am - 9pm
Sunday11:30am - 9pm