If you’re looking for a unique and educational experience in Rocky Point, look no further than the Oyster Farm and El Barco Restaurant on the Morua Estuary. Here’s what you can expect from this two-in-one adventure:
Behind the Farm:
The Women’s Cooperative Organization at the Oyster Farm and El Barco Restaurant has been a cornerstone of the community for over 40 years. Founded in 1982, this female-dominant business venture has retained its original charm while evolving to include the addition of the restaurant to attract more visitors. With the assistance of their husbands, sons, and other family members, the cooperative employs between 20-30 people to run the farm and restaurant.
Getting There:
To reach the farm, travelers can take the road to Caborca and turn off at Km 6.5 onto a dirt road leading to the Morua Estuary. While a 4-wheel drive vehicle is recommended for navigating sandy or wet conditions, the farm is easily accessible via GPS. The farm is open daily from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm, offering visitors the opportunity to explore the oyster farm and enjoy fresh dining experiences year-round.
Oyster Farm Tours:
Embark on a comprehensive 2-hour tour of the oyster farms in the area, with a primary focus on the Women’s Cooperative farm. Learn about the lifecycle of oysters, from cultivation to harvesting, and even try your hand at shucking. Tours are available on Saturdays and Sundays and are recommended to be booked in advance due to high demand. However, if you’re unable to secure a spot on the tour, visitors are welcome to explore the oyster beds independently.
Special Oysters in Rocky Point:
Discover the Pacific Oyster, also known as the Japanese Oyster or Crassostrea Gigas, unique to the region. Harvested fresh from the oyster beds, these oysters boast a distinctive greenish-gray color and elongated shape with ruffled edges. With a sweet or mild flavor profile, these oysters are prized for their freshness and quality, making them a must-try delicacy during your visit to Rocky Point.
Immerse yourself in the rich history and culinary delights of the Oyster Farm and El Barco Restaurant, where tradition meets innovation in an unforgettable experience by the Morua Estuary.
The El Barco Restaurant
Indulge in a delightful culinary experience at El Barco Restaurant after your enlightening tour of the Oyster Farm. Here’s what awaits you on their tantalizing menu:
Menu Highlights:
- Cooked Oysters: Treat yourself to a dozen cooked oysters for $15.00 or opt for raw oysters priced at $130 pesos, approximately $6.00 to $7.00 per dozen.
- Ceviche: Enjoy the vibrant flavors of fresh ceviche made with locally sourced seafood, a perfect appetizer to start your meal.
- Stingray Tacos and Quesadillas: Delight your taste buds with the unique taste of stingray, served in traditional Mexican dishes such as tacos and quesadillas.
- Quesadilla Sencilla: Keep it simple with a plain quesadilla, allowing the natural flavors of the ingredients to shine through.
- House Specialty: Don’t miss out on the restaurant’s signature dish of one dozen cooked oysters, showcasing the freshest flavors straight from the estuary.
- Beverages: Quench your thirst with a selection of refreshing beverages including beer, soda, and water, perfect for complementing your meal.
Dining Experience:
Relax and unwind in the inviting ambiance of El Barco Restaurant, where palm branch palapas provide ample shade and a rustic atmosphere for your dining pleasure. With plenty of tables available to accommodate groups of all sizes, you can enjoy a memorable meal surrounded by the natural beauty of the Morua Estuary.
Payment Information:
Please note that El Barco Restaurant operates on a cash-only basis, so be sure to bring sufficient funds to cover your meal. Credit cards are not accepted, ensuring a hassle-free dining experience focused on savoring the freshest seafood offerings straight from the estuary.
Tips for Preparing Oysters at Home:
If you’re purchasing oysters from the farm to enjoy at home or in your condo, here are some delicious preparation options:
- Raw Oysters: Shuck them and enjoy them fresh, or with a squeeze of lemon juice for a zesty kick.
- Grilled Oysters: Place them on a charcoal BBQ or gas grill until they open up, then savor their smoky flavor with a dollop of melted butter.
- Rockefeller Sauce: Elevate your oysters with a rich and flavorful Rockefeller sauce made from fresh garlic, lemon juice, panko crumbs, herbs, and melted butter.
- Garlic Butter and Romano Cheese: Top shucked oysters with garlic butter, Romano cheese, and black pepper for a savory treat.
Whether you dine at El Barco Restaurant or enjoy your freshly harvested oysters at home, you’re in for a culinary delight with every bite.
