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Image: Glam Adelaida / FIS
Australia’s first oyster vending machine proves to be a massive hit
AUSTRALIA
Monday, March 11, 2024, 01:00 (GMT + 9)
In the serene coastal town of Coffin Bay, renowned for its pristine waters and world-class oysters, an innovative dining concept has seamlessly blended the region’s culinary treasures with modern convenience. Two years ago, Oyster Xpress, the first oyster vending machine in Australia, was launched, transforming the way locals and tourists alike savour the bounties of the sea.
Celebrated for its oysters, Coffin Bay is considered among the best in the world. The town’s natural beauty, with its tranquil bays and unspoiled beaches, makes it a haven for seafood lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Amidst this backdrop, Oyster Xpress provides a unique 24/7 option for enjoying fresh seafood, a concept that originated from Ben Catterall, co-owner of Oyster HQ and Coffin Bay Oyster Farm Tours.
Alongside his business partner Kim Thomas, Ben envisioned a way to simplify seafood sales while offering unparalleled convenience to customers. Inspired by a similar concept in France, they partnered with Vend24/7, a Queensland vending machine company, to bring their vision to life.
The vending machine is restocked regularly to ensure freshness and offers not just a variety of oysters but also prawns, mussels, and other seafood delights. The process is straightforward: customers use an electronic keyboard to select their desired locker containing the seafood of their choice, make a payment, and it pops open the refrigerated locker opens automatically. This hassle-free service has been a massive hit, allowing those in need of quick, delicious seafood to get their fix at any hour.
When speaking about the continued popularity of the machine, Ben joked “it has won employee of the month for every month since it was installed.”
Source: Glam Adelaida
While Oyster Xpress stands out for its innovation, Oyster HQ itself is a destination worth visiting for its dine-in experience. The restaurant’s menu is a testament to the rich seafood culture of Coffin Bay, offering a wide array of dishes that showcase the freshness and quality of local produce. Seafood platters are a highlight, featuring an assortment of meticulously prepared items such as Tuna Sashimi, Kingfish Sashimi, Vongole, Ceviche, and more, all presented without the use of deep-frying or battering. These platters, requiring reservations due to their elaborate nature, offer diners a luxurious feast, with options including a centrepiece of Moreton Bay Bug or a half crayfish.
 Source: Coffin Bay Oyster Farm Tours -->
Beyond platters, the menu at Oyster HQ caters to diverse palates with inventive oyster variations like the Japanese-style with pickled ginger, soy, wasabi, and toasted sesame, or the intriguing Gin & Tonic Sorbet oyster. The wine bar at Oyster HQ complements the dining experience with a selection of wines that pair perfectly with the seafood offerings, ensuring guests enjoy the full spectrum of flavors that Coffin Bay has to offer.
Oyster Xpress, located at Oyster HQ, 100 Esplanade, Coffin Bay, not only reflects the innovative spirit of its founders but also underscores the town’s reputation as a premier seafood destination. Whether through the convenience of a vending machine or the curated experience of dining in, Oyster HQ offers a memorable way to enjoy Coffin Bay’s culinary delights, making it a must-visit for anyone traveling to the Eyre Peninsula.
Source: Glam Adelaida
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