The new roadside stands come at a good time of year for oyster lovers. The “R” months — meaning months that end in “R,” September, October, November and December — are when oysters are at their most meaty, Peconic Gold Oysters owner Matt Ketcham said.
“There is no bad time of year to eat oysters, but right now they are fattening up for the winter,” he said. “The ‘R months’ is a good general rule to go by.”
Ketcham, who has been shucking his oysters at Jamesport Brewery on weekends, is gearing up to open his Cutchogue roadside oyster stand in time for Columbus Day weekend. He is planning to sell oysters in a variety of increments, from 24 to as many as 50 oysters per bag. The stand will be located at 21125 Route 48 in Cutchogue between Depot Lane and Cox Lane.
“This is a really great way to promote my brand and get to meet the customers,” he said.
Ketcham encourages people to bring an ice-packed cooler along to transport the oysters, though Peconic Gold Oysters would provide disposal coolers, if needed. Ketchum also noted that it is best to get them home and refrigerated as soon as possible. (Stay up to date on the opening by following @peconicgoldoysters)