Americans are paying more for oyster happy hours as prices have increased. The traditional buck-an-oyster deal is disappearing, with some restaurants charging as much as $2.50 per oyster. Inflation has caused prices to rise in various aspects of American life, including groceries, rent, and socializing at bars. While wholesale oyster prices have decreased from the previous year’s peak, supply issues, exacerbated by climate change, continue to affect the market. The scarcity of wild-caught oysters has forced the industry to rely on farmed oysters, resulting in increased labor costs and higher prices for consumers. Efforts to restore wild oyster reefs face challenges due to climate change’s impact on salinity and the potential for new predators and diseases. Despite supply constraints, demand for oysters remains high, especially among younger generations. The industry is working to increase supply and stabilize pricing through restoration initiatives and sustainable farming practices.
