The Oyster Bar at Salt & Fin

Never had been to Harrah's So Cal but attended a concert there last night with dinner before at Salt & Fin. Honestly, dinner was better than the concert and that was pretty darn good, too. Waited about 15 minutes for two spots at the Oyster Bar but ended up deciding to go with a table so we could order from both the Bar and restaurant menus. Had oysters two ways and they were scrumptious and obviously fresh. As was the two sushi rolls we probably over ordered after having the delicious sautéed bok choi, too. Needless to say, we decided against desert! Overall, I think this was the best choice out of Gordon Ramsey and a steak restaurant on either side of Salt & Fin. Kudos to Rachel and Jen for superlative service and for just being nice people! Not sure if I'm ever going back to Harrah's but dinner here might be reason enough!

It’s time to bring your appetite and take a trip to the Oyster Bar which is nicely tucked inside Harrah’s Rincon Resort in Valley Center, CA.

The Oyster Bar shares their occupancy with one of Harrah’s fine dining restaurant, Fiore. With about 15 super comfy bar style seatings, it’s a great way to break bread with a group of friends or simply chit chat with your neighbors. Everyone is exceptionally friendly and there wouldn’t be any distress if anyone dined alone.

Let’s start off with Oysters on a Half Shell. The Atlantic oysters were absolutely divine. Much smaller than the Pacific oysters, but their tiny size can seas the day!

How about a classic bowl of New England clam chowder or indulge in some flavorful Baked Green-Lipped Mussels Casino with bacon lardons, parmesan and breadcrumbs. Delish!

For the entrees, we chose the Oyster Bar’s famous Specialty Pan-Roast. Served in a creamy sauce with San Marzano tomatoes, red wine, peppers, along with bountiful of giant shrimp, scallops, clams, Rockfish, and lobster. As if that’s not plenty enough, the dish is served with steamed rice.

Wowed by the flavors of the broth that married well with the cream. It’s warm. It’s comforting. But to tackle this mountain of deliciousness, do share it with someone special or skip the appetizers altogether.

Left room for dessert? Feel free to exploit the dessert menu from Fiore. Rumor is… the desserts will also leave a mark.

Until next time…

Very slow service!

The seafood is always fresh and cooked to perfection. The menu has changed quite a bit since the last time we were there and it's great! Seafood Puttanesca is delicious, so well done, with layers of flavor. The steamed clams (or mussels) never disappoint. Definitely worth a visit.