Farmer: Phil Enserink 

Location: North Lake, Prince Edward Island, CAN

Size: 3"

How they’re grown: These oysters are grown in floating cages on Phil’s 30-acre lease for the majority of their lives.  North Lake has rough waters with tons of wind and wave action which naturally tumbles the oysters and helps them form strong shells with deep cups.  Because the waters on this part of the island are especially cold, the oysters can take 4-5 years to reach market size. 

How they taste:  These meaty oysters give us a fresh burst of ocean saltiness followed by a super savory, mushroom-esque umami.  Phil loves to enjoy them as is...raw with nothing on ‘em.

Why they’re unique: These are some of the first oysters to come out of North Lake.  North Lake is well-known as the bluefin tuna capital of the world, has over 90 lobster fisheries, and some of PEI’s most productive areas for snow crab, herring, mackerel, and halibut.  After being used primarily for mussel farming, Phil and his crew of 3 worked to convert all the gear on his lease to oyster gear and his oysters are thriving! 

Story:  Northern Belles are the third oyster to come from East Cape Oyster Company.  In 2016, Phil had the honor of taking over the leases of oyster veteran Tommy Joe MacDonald, who started farming in the waters of eastern PEI in 1975.  Tommy knows the leases like the back of his hand and is quick to step in as needed with growing tips and hilarious stories from ‘back in the day’.  Northern Belles’ logo is a nod to the picture-perfect lobster and tuna fishing shacks that line the harbor on the other side of North Lake.