National Oyster Day brought plenty of excitement to Panama City as competitors gathered at Hunt’s Oyster Bar for the restaurant’s annual oyster-eating contest.
Twenty Competitors Took on the Oyster Challenge
This year’s competition attracted 20 contestants, all hoping to earn the title of oyster-eating champion.
The contest featured three rounds, with each competitor receiving three minutes per round to eat as many oysters as possible. Friends, family, and spectators packed the restaurant to cheer on participants throughout the event.
The competition was free to enter, making it a fun way for both locals and visitors to celebrate one of the Gulf Coast’s favorite seafood traditions.
More Than 3,000 Oysters Served
Hosting an oyster-eating contest takes plenty of preparation, and Hunt’s Oyster Bar had its staff ready for the challenge.
According to the restaurant, nine oyster shuckers spent the day preparing for the event. Together, they shucked nearly 300 dozen oysters, or more than 3,000 oysters, for competitors.
The annual contest has become a popular National Oyster Day tradition, drawing large crowds and showcasing the Gulf Coast’s strong connection to fresh local seafood.
A Winning Performance
This year’s title went to Paul Gonzales, who traveled about two hours from across the Florida state line to compete.
His trip paid off in a big way. Gonzales ate an incredible 122 oysters in just three minutes, averaging more than 40 oysters per minute to claim the championship.
Events like Hunt’s Oyster Bar’s annual competition highlight the region’s rich seafood culture while giving locals and visitors another reason to celebrate National Oyster Day. With thousands of oysters served and a packed house cheering on competitors, this year’s contest once again proved to be one of the area’s most entertaining food events.
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