There are a variety of oyster species around the globe and therefore come in a number of shapes and sizes. The best British oysters known are called native or flat . Other British oysters include the rock oysters. Natives are available from September to April, though best from late October to late February when the sea is colder.
Pacific oysters are available all year.
Scrub the shells well before opening. Any that have an unusual smell should be discarded. Native oysters are best eaten raw and should be eaten as soon as possible after capture. Raw they are good with lemon and cayenne pepper. Cooked rock oysters are good for chowder or stews.