January 22, 2011
More than 100 people braved the cold today for a popular pastime, an oyster roast.
Today was the second annual Myrtle Beach Oyster Fest at Valor Park at The Market Common.
Diners stood under a tent to devour the delicious mollusks by the bucketfull.
"It's a Southern staple!" caterer and self proclaimed oyster expert Jamie Westendorff says.
He expected to clear 120 pounds of oysters today. You might be surprised to know though, he says, that the slimy treats aren't actually roasted-they're steamed cooked.
"Almost everybody goes by a steam method now but that word doesn't sound romantic to say 'an oyster steam out'."
Admission to the event was free and each bucket of oysters cost $10.
All proceeds go to Scents for Soldiers.