If you’ve ever walked through downtown Raleigh and spotted that glowing neon sign that says 42nd Street Oyster Bar, you probably felt a little pull to step inside. For nearly a century, this spot has been a go-to for seafood lovers, burger fans, and folks looking for a good time with friends. It’s the kind of place that feels like a tradition, even if you’ve only been a few times. And if you’ve ever had their oysters or that burger that people can’t stop talking about, you get why it’s been packed almost every night.

So whether you're a longtime local or just visiting, 42nd Street Oyster Bar was more than just a restaurant. It was a story in itself, stretching back to 1931. It started as a small grocer and eventually became one of the South’s most famous seafood spots. The kind of place where you could grab a beer, share a platter of fresh oysters, and maybe run into someone you used to go to school with.

But now, after decades of serving Raleigh and its visitors, the news came that 42nd Street Oyster Bar would be closing its doors for good. That’s right — the neon lights will go off, the last oyster will be shucked, and the story will come to a close. So let’s take a moment to look back, remember what made this place special, and maybe even inspire a final visit before the end.

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Table of Contents

• A Legacy in Raleigh: The Story Behind 42nd Street Oyster Bar
• What’s on the Menu? A Taste of Seafood Heaven
• Why People Loved It: Customer Reviews and Ratings
• The End of an Era: Why It’s Closing
• Frequently Asked Questions

A Legacy in Raleigh: The Story Behind 42nd Street Oyster Bar

Back in 1931, 42nd Street Oyster Bar wasn’t the seafood spot we know today. It started as a humble grocery store. Then, over time, it evolved into a place where locals could stop by for fresh seafood, and eventually, it became a full-on oyster bar and grill. That shift — when the owner decided to start serving fresh, shucked local oysters — turned out to be a game changer. It wasn’t long before the bar became a Raleigh staple.

Over the decades, it built a reputation not just for the seafood, but for the vibe. It was casual, friendly, and always buzzing. The kind of place where you could dress up in a little black dress and heels or just come in straight from work. It had that “everyone’s welcome” kind of feel, and it made people want to come back, again and again.

And if you were a burger fan? You might’ve heard that their burger was something special. People even say it was one of the best burgers in Raleigh — which is saying a lot in a city that loves its food. So even if you weren’t a seafood lover, there was still plenty to love at 42nd Street Oyster Bar.

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What’s on the Menu? A Taste of Seafood Heaven

If you’ve ever walked in and looked at the menu, you probably noticed that it’s not just about oysters. There’s a whole lineup of seafood dishes, from fried shrimp to grilled fish, and even some classic comfort food like chili and burgers. But of course, the oysters were the star of the show. You could get them raw, grilled, or even as part of a sampler platter.

And if you’re curious about what people liked best, here’s a quick look at some of the fan favorites:

• Oyster Platter – A mix of raw and grilled oysters, perfect for first-timers or seasoned seafood lovers.
• Clam Chowder – Rich, creamy, and just the right amount of indulgent.
• The Burger – Juicy, flavorful, and definitely worth trying even if you came for the oysters.
• Seafood Gumbo – Packed with flavor and a must-try for anyone who likes a little spice.

The prices were more or less in line with what you’d expect for a downtown spot. Nothing too crazy, and the portions were generous. Whether you were grabbing a quick bite or settling in for a long dinner with friends, there was something for everyone.

Why People Loved It: Customer Reviews and Ratings

So, why did people keep coming back? Let’s take a look at what visitors and regulars had to say.

On TripAdvisor, 42nd Street Oyster Bar has a 4.3 rating out of 5, based on over 1,000 reviews. That’s pretty solid. A lot of folks mentioned the food — how fresh it was, how flavorful the dishes were, and how the oysters stood out even compared to other places.

One user said, “I’ve had oysters all over the country, but these are up there with the best.” Another reviewer wrote, “The clam chowder is so good it makes you wish you lived closer to the coast.”

There were also comments about the atmosphere. It wasn’t just a place to eat — it was a place to hang out. People liked the casual vibe, the friendly staff, and the fact that it was always lively without being too loud. And yes, some folks even mentioned that the neon sign alone was worth a photo or two.

Of course, there were a few hiccups over the years — like that time when over 40 people got sick after eating oysters. But even then, fans of the place were quick to defend it, saying “it could happen anywhere,” and not to let one bad incident ruin a good spot.

The End of an Era: Why It’s Closing

It’s not every day that a restaurant that’s been around for almost 40 years — and part of Raleigh for nearly a century — announces it’s closing. But that’s exactly what happened with 42nd Street Oyster Bar.

In early 2025, the owners shared the news that after 37 and a half years in business at its current location (508 W. Jones Street), the bar would be closing its doors on March 30. The exact reasons weren’t made public, but from what we know, it was a combination of factors — changes in the restaurant industry, rising costs, and maybe just the right time to call it a day.

The announcement hit hard. Fans flooded social media with memories, photos, and thank-yous. Some even made it a point to stop by for one last meal before the final day. And when the neon lights went off for the last time, it felt like a piece of Raleigh history had gone with it.

Still, even though it’s closing, the impact it had on the city and its people isn’t going anywhere. It’s the kind of place that’ll live on in stories, photos, and the memories of anyone who ever walked through those doors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is 42nd Street Oyster Bar still open?

No, 42nd Street Oyster Bar officially closed on March 30, 2025, after 37 and a half years in business. The owners announced the closure after nearly a century of serving Raleigh in one form or another.

What was 42nd Street Oyster Bar known for?

It was best known for its fresh, locally sourced oysters, flavorful clam chowder, and a surprisingly amazing burger. The casual atmosphere and lively vibe made it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Was there ever a food safety issue at 42nd Street Oyster Bar?

Yes, there was a reported outbreak where over 40 people fell ill after eating oysters at the bar. However, many loyal customers stood by the place, noting that such issues can happen anywhere that serves raw seafood.

Final Thoughts

42nd Street Oyster Bar wasn’t just a place to grab a bite — it was a piece of Raleigh’s culture. From its beginnings as a small grocer to becoming a beloved seafood institution, it made memories for generations of diners.

So if you had the chance to visit, you know exactly what the fuss was all about. And if you never got the chance, maybe you can still catch a story or two from someone who did. Either way, 42nd Street Oyster Bar will always be remembered as a classic Raleigh spot that served up good food and even better vibes.

Want to read more about iconic Raleigh restaurants? Learn more about Raleigh’s hidden gems on our site.

For more on food safety in seafood restaurants, check out this guide from the FDA.