The new Tom’s Oyster Bar has opened at the corner of Beaubien and Jefferson, across from the Renaissance Center. With its tin ceiling, dark paneling and blue-and-white checkered tablecloths, the restaurant creates the feel of an authentic New England chowder house. The large, U-shaped bar is accented with brass railings and is surrounded by tables; there’s plenty of room for socializing with friends and colleagues. The well-stocked bar offers an extensive wine list and a fine assortment of microbrews.
Check the blackboard for a list of the daily specials; they include six ever-changing varieties of raw oysters, sold individually for $1.95. Try one of each variety in the raw oyster sampler ($8.95), or baked, Rockefeller-style. The oyster bar also serves several other hot and cold appetizers, from Maryland crab cakes to smoked whitefish to Tom’s famous clam chowder; the main menu features a large selection of entrees with an emphasis on seafood — up to 20 fresh items daily. Try satisfying and warm soups including Tom's clam chowder, seafood chowder, crawfish bisque or "seafood chilli."
