Greer's OC

The new Ways & Means Oyster House is kicking off its grand opening at Pacific City in Huntington Beach with an oyster eating contest to benefit local charities on Friday, January 29, at 1 p.m. The competition is for great cause--$3 from every oyster eaten will be donated to the winning team’s charity of choice. Members of the Huntington Beach Police Department, Fire Department and local lifeguards will be given 60 seconds to eat as many oysters as possible. You can cheer on your favorite team and attend the spirited event by making reservations by calling the restaurant at 714.960.4300 or online at wmoysters.com.

Ways & Means has the same seafood shack feel everyone loved at its former Old Towne Orange location, along with a fresh take on its popular menu delivered by Chef Justin Odegard. In addition to fresh premium oysters, the menu has a large emphasis on bowls and smaller plates perfect for sharing.

Their fantastic daily specials such as Maine Monday (Maine lobster for $9.99) from 2 p.m. to sunset are available here.

Favorites include their lobster bisque served with basil and lobster mousse crostini; roasted octopus skewers with a spicy mango quinoa, and Moroccan salmon rillettes with fresh and smoked salmon, creamy garlic sauce, roasted and crispy garlic and fried naan. Signature larger plates include local black cod with a sweet potato puree and fried baby kale; crispy fish po' boy served with chow chow relish and skinny fries; and a 16 ounce bone-in ribeye served with cheesy grits, gaucho veggies, compound herb butter and roasted garlic.

Ways & Means is also noted for its “unexpected” wines by the bottle, produced by wineries from around the world. Wines are arranged on the menu by price. Also offered are approximately a dozen wines by the glass, at $12 and under. Ways & Means has launched its own wine label beginning with two California varietals, a 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon and a 2013 Chardonnay.

Local craft spirits specialist Chris Dion, delivers seasonal versions of classic favorites like the Fall Bounty with St. George Citrus Vodka, Giffard Creme de Mure Blackberry Liqueur, Cointreau and fresh lemon juice; The Underdog with Fords Gin, Aperol, IPA, fresh grapefruit and lemon juices; and Paloma Nueva with Espolon Blanco Tequila, Nuestra Soledad Mezcal Joven, Giffard Pamplemousse rose and fresh lime juice.

Ways & Means Oyster House is at 21022 Pacific Coast Highway in Huntington Beach. 714.960.4300.