The Merchantman on Sydney Street is the place to eat PEI oysters properly — on the half shell, with a glass of something cold, at the oyster bar. The restaurant focuses on local seafood handled with care: island oysters (several varieties, served shucked to order), fresh fish from day boats, and chowder made with PEI clams.
The room is comfortable without trying too hard — exposed brick, wood floors, a long bar. Good for dinner before a show at the Confederation Centre. The oyster happy hour in the late afternoon offers the best value.