Echo Park finally has a seafood spot to rival longtime Silver Lake favorite L&E Oyster Bar and it comes by the way of The Lonely Oyster. Located just a stone’s throw from Sunset Boulevard on Echo Park Avenue, in the former location of The Holloway, the 2,000-square-foot space serves up a variety of raw fish, platers, shellfish, and a drinks menu that manages to be both delicious and risque.
Opened by Don Andes, who also operates local watering hole Little Joy, The Lonely Oyster brings life to the space most recently operated by short-lived Italian restaurant Amaro. There are eight seats at the bar, 50 in the dining room, and another 20 in the garden patio with another 30 seats expected by month’s end.
On the menu, visitors will find a rotating variety of oysters alongside a large offering of raw plates and seaside classics. Peruvian ceviche is available alongside branzino, fish and chips, and a burger for those less ocean inclined. They also serve brunch and there’s a section of Southern-inspired sides because why not do it right? Chef Carlo Lopez, who previously spent times behind the stove in San Sebastian, Spain and Beverly Hills’ Avra, leads the kitchen.
The minimalist leaning dishes are highlighted by a wine and cocktail list that pushes the edge. On the wine side, German rosé sits across from Georgian orange, while playful Italians rub against French classics. Beer meanwhile allows imbibers to live the high life.
The cocktail category may offer the most risque fun of all. The Lonely Oyster Martini comes with the option of adding an oyster and caviar bump, a must, while the Mariposa del Mar mixes mezcal and Campari with grapefruit, lemon, and agave.
If you’re looking for a new spot to enjoy oysters and martini in Los Angeles, this is it.
The Lonely Oyster is open from 5pm till midnight Monday through Friday and noon till midnight on Saturday and Sunday. For more information or to make a reservation, head over to the official website.