There is nothing halfway about the Half Shell Oyster House’s Oysters Bienville. A fresh-shucked Gulf oyster is topped with mushrooms, crab, shrimp, herbs, Italian bread crumbs and Parmesan cheese. It’s baked just enough so the oyster remains juicy and plump while the topping toasts to a rich and creamy brown. The oysters are served on a classic bed of rock salt with a lemon wedge for squeezing. You can order a half dozen or a dozen, but we’re warning you—six will not be enough.

Half Shell Oyster House, 1991 Main St., Sarasota. (941) 952-9400. Read more dining news at chef Judi Gallagher’s “Foodie’s Notebook” blog at sarasotamagazine.com.