🦪 Found Oyster in Los Angeles
Found Oyster is a highly-regarded seafood restaurant nestled in the heart of East Hollywood, Los Angeles.1
What Makes it Unique
Found Oyster’s concept is a distinctive intersection of styles.2 It is inspired by the blue-collar oyster bars of New England but incorporates West Coast flavors and elements of a Parisian wine bar and a Japanese izakaya (small plates pub).3
- Atmosphere: It is often described as a “jewel box” or “diminutive” space with a cozy interior, long bar, and minimal décor, which includes nautical framed artwork and a disco ball.4 It offers a quaint, upscale dining experience with a vibrant atmosphere.5
- Oyster Source: The menu features oysters from a full raw bar, including those sourced from General Manager Joe Laraja’s family oyster farm in Orleans, Massachusetts.6
- Dining Style: It is known for its counter or bar seating only and for being a walk-in friendly spot (though reservations are also available).7
History and Origins
Found Oyster debuted in late 2019 and is the creation of Last Word Hospitality principals Adam Weisblatt and Holly Fox, along with John Himelstein and Chef Ari Kolender.8
- Conception: The menu, created by James Beard nominated Chef Kolender, draws inspiration from Weisblatt’s Massachusetts roots.9
- Recognition: The restaurant was well-received from the outset, earning a strong review from the LA Times and being named one of Esquire’s “Best New Restaurants in America” in November of the following year.10
- Significant Events: Prior to its official Fall 2019 opening, the team held several pop-up events to preview the menu, including one at LA WINE in Chinatown and another at Tabula Rasa Bar.11
- Sister Restaurant: In 2023, Chef Ari Kolender opened his much-anticipated sophomore restaurant, Queen St. in Eagle Rock, described as a larger “big sister” to Found Oyster, drawing from his Southeast (Charleston, SC) upbringing.12
Customer Feedback
Found Oyster has an established strong reputation, with a rating of 4.6 on Google from over 250 positive reviews.13
| Positive Feedback Highlights | Constructive Feedback Highlights |
| Exceptional food quality and freshness, particularly the oysters, scallops, and steak tartare. | Seating (bar stools) can be uncomfortable. |
| Staff is knowledgeable and attentive. | Pricing is considered high, and portion sizes are sometimes described as “mini.” |
| Great music, vibrant atmosphere, and excellent wine selection. | Parking in the East Hollywood neighborhood can be difficult to find. |
| The food is described as “divine,” “pristine,” and a “hidden gem.” | A service charge fee may be automatically added to the bill. |
Highlight Menu Items
The menu is seafood-focused, featuring a full raw bar and crudos, with daily specials to keep the offerings exciting.14
- Raw Bar: Fresh oysters (including those from the Laraja family farm), clams, and crabs.15
- Signature Dishes:
- Lobster Roll: A distinctive version that uses a bisque mayo and chili peppers on a top-split Martin’s bun.16
- Scallop Tostada: Fresh scallops often topped with yuzu kosho, apple, and opal basil.17
- Baywatch Platter / Overboard Platter: Popular raw seafood platters for sharing, which include oysters, peel and eat prawns, and crudo.18
- Clam Chowder: Praised for its good flavor, though noted to be less thick than traditional New England styles.19
- Smoked Trout Dip: Described as one of the best examples, with a balance of creamy texture and deep, long-lasting smoke flavor.20
- Fried Yellowtail Collar: A Japanese-inspired special seasoned with a furikake variant and savory sauce.21
- Lobster Roll: A distinctive version that uses a bisque mayo and chili peppers on a top-split Martin’s bun.16
Contact Information and Links
- Address: 4880 Fountain Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90029, United States22
- Phone (Text): (213) 377-2726 (The number is often listed as a “text” contact for questions.)23
- Email: [email protected]24
- Website: https://www.foundoyster.com
