The Minnesota State Fair has a unique way of captivating its visitors, gradually building joy over the years. This phenomenon helps explain why someone might suddenly feel compelled to return to the fair after many years, craving experiences like sipping milk in the late summer heat next to a barn full of nursing sows. I personally have spent nearly twenty years resisting the urge to order oysters at the fair. Just yesterday, however, I succumbed to that temptation in the sweltering 94-degree heat.
It might seem strange to seek out shellfish at an event celebrated for its agricultural roots. There’s no indication that the 4-H program will soon feature competitions in farming shellfish. Ironically, being far from any coastal waters has led to an unexpected presence of oysters in the Twin Cities. Some might remember the Nomad World Pub’s short-lived offering of $1 oysters on the patio during football season a decade ago. Similarly, a park shelter at Minnehaha Falls operates as a popular open-air seafood spot throughout much of the year.
While it may seem odd to find oysters at the State Fair, it’s important to recognize that the fair itself embraces a delightful chaos. Among this whimsy, the Fish & Chips Seafood Shoppe has quietly gained a following. For its 50th anniversary, the shoppe has moved into the Food Building, situated conveniently near the renowned cheese curd vendor, the Mouth Trap. You’ll spot the shoppe under a conspicuous mustard-yellow sign featuring the words SCALLOPS, CALAMARI, and CLAM STRIPS in a retro font.
The Seafood Shoppe is manned by friendly young staff who suggested ordering lobster. However, my thirst for oysters led me to opt for a sampler on a stick, which included mini crab cakes, fried oysters, coconut shrimp, and fried scallops. Clam strips were surprisingly absent, as one staff member explained the difficulty of skewering them.
After paying $15.95, I was informed my order would take some time. As I waited, I contemplated the choices that had brought me to this moment amid the oppressive heat, with the temperature feeling closer to 110 degrees due to the humidity.
Despite my long history with the fair, I hoped to discover something surprising and delightful. My passion for oysters and willingness to indulge in them makes me eager for a satisfying experience. The thought of savoring oysters, along with the excitement of experimenting with different garnishes, is something I cherish deeply.
However, I regret to inform you: do not order the oysters at the Minnesota State Fair.
That said, the crab cakes are quite enjoyable.