Paris: Opium La Cabane – Oysters and Pink Shrimp

Right around the corner from where we stayed in Paris, we found this tiny oyster bar called Opium La Cabane. Fresh oysters were piled up on display in a chilled counter facing the street, so it was just a matter of time before curiosity got the better of us and we stepped inside. We actually had a dinner reservation at another restaurant later that evening, but there’s always room for an oyster—or a dozen:)

There were only a few tables in the restaurant and the atmosphere was relaxed and intimate. We were greeted warmly by the staff who didn’t hesitate to share their recommendations, and we ended up ordering a tasting platter with a dozen oysters from different parts of France.

After I had gulped down my first oyster, I was politely interrupted by one of the staff, who had been watching me from the counter with a skeptical look on his face. I love oysters, but I’ll admit my technique is…basic. I know how to get them from the shell to my mouth, but that’s about it. Apparently, there’s a right way to do it, and the staff showed us how. According to him, oysters should be eaten plain—no mignonette! no Tabasco! no lemon! The slice of lemon that came with the platter? Just for decoration, don’t touch it!

He also showed us how to detach the adductor muscle that holds the oyster to the shell. It has a firmer texture than the rest of the oyster and a delicious, slightly sweet, scallop-like flavor, so skipping it would be a shame. You cut off the muscle as close to the shell as possible, leaving nothing behind.

First you drink the liquor (the briny liquid the oyster sits in), then you slurp the oyster, and then you chew (!) it. I had never done that before (the chewing part), but it makes sense. You get much more of the flavor that way.

The oysters were big and beautiful, and they made me think of my mom, who collects seashells. I didn’t have a handbag, and the idea of walking around with oyster shells in my pockets all evening didn’t seem like a great plan, so I had to leave them behind.

In addition to the oysters, we also ordered Crevettes Roses de Madagascar—pink shrimp from Madagascar—mainly because we were curious, but they turned out to be amazing. Some of the best shrimp I’ve ever had, so if you stop by Opium La Cabane, I definitely recommend adding them to your order.

Steve had a glass of champagne, and I went with a glass of Chablis, and they were both perfect matches for the seafood. Opium La Cabane is tiny but cozy, and with amazing staff who obviously love what they do. A great spot for a glass of wine and some oysters to start the night.

Opium La Cabane, 44 Rue Dauphine, 75006 Paris, France