The Oyster Bar opened in 1888 when Honorable Ferdinand Oetting launched his original saloon, bringing what would become 130 years of history to Fort Wayne.
This vintage establishment serves serious food in a casual atmosphere, with fresh high-quality seafood at an iconic location that’s seen it all.
The Calhoun Street restaurant has become a Fort Wayne landmark where guests have become friends through Prohibition, the Depression, and even the pandemic.
What Makes The Oyster Bar Special
With 130 years of history in a uniquely older facility, this small 50-seat space delivers fresh high-quality seafood that keeps people coming back generation after generation.
The clam chowder stands as their signature dish with a very creamy consistency that’s never overly rich, featuring a mild clam flavor with several larger pieces of clam meat.
Fresh oysters on the half shell arrive from Chesapeake Bay with beautiful presentation and outstanding quality, with no salty or overpowering sea taste.
The Story Behind the Restaurant
The Oyster Bar’s story began in 1888 when Ferdinand Oetting opened his original saloon, creating the foundation for what would become a Fort Wayne institution.
In 1954, Hughie Johnson introduced oysters to the establishment that had been operating as Hughie’s Tap, bringing the seafood focus that softball superstar ownership would maintain.
Current owners Anthony and Kara West continue the 130-year tradition, with Chef Tony returning in 2022 to the same kitchen where he launched his career back in 1997.
Fort Wayne’s Favorite Menu Items
Food Highlights
- Clam Chowder: The signature dish features a very creamy consistency that’s never overly rich. The moderately thick texture with mild clam flavor delivers several larger pieces of clam meat for a very good taste. 🥣
- Fresh Oysters on Half Shell: Chesapeake Bay oysters arrive with a beautiful presentation and fresh taste, with no salty or sea smells. A small dab of sweet cocktail sauce and ground horseradish create outstanding quality. 🦪
- Seafood Au Gratin: Plenty of scallop and crab chunks get buried in a delicious lobster cream sauce with a mozzarella layer. The creamy mild sauce lets the seafood retain its original flavor under that nice gooey cheese topping. 🦞
- Diver Scallops: Large and plump scallops cooked perfectly deliver very tender and moist quality without any fishy taste. The execution showcases just how fresh their seafood really is. 🦪
- Crab Cakes: Two fairly large cakes packed with real crab meat and gently fried. The fresh seafood flavors come through nicely with house-made remoulade in this blue crab preparation. 🦀
- Louisiana BBQ Shrimp: An Oyster Bar signature featuring shrimp sautéed with celery in spicy Louisiana sauce, topped with blue cheese crumble. The bold combination creates a memorable starter. 🍤
Atmosphere
The restaurant sits at 1830 South Calhoun Street in a vintage building with dark hardwoods and sea-going decor throughout the historic facility.
Inside, the small 50-seat capacity means tables are uncomfortably close together, but that creates an intimate, cozy atmosphere with white table linens setting the tone.
The romantic space with moderate noise levels welcomes special occasions, with outdoor seating available for those who want a more casual yet serious dining experience.
Bottom Line
Visit The Oyster Bar for 130 years of Fort Wayne history, with fresh oysters on the half shell and signature clam chowder that’s been perfected since 1888.
Seafood au gratin, diver scallops, and Louisiana BBQ shrimp showcase serious food in a casual atmosphere at this iconic establishment.
The vintage building character, professional service, and Chef Tony returning to the same kitchen from 1997 prove fresh seafood is worth seeking out at this Fort Wayne landmark. 🌟
Address: The Oyster Bar
1830 S Calhoun Street, Fort Wayne, IN 46802
📞 (260) 744-9490
🕐 Mon-Fri: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM (Lunch), 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM (Dinner) | Sat: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM | Sun: Closed
Tuesday Special: Burger Day (the real deal)
Reservations recommended | Small 50-seat restaurant | Outdoor seating | Catering available