De Mare Raw Bar
Exploring the Art of Lowcountry Oysters with Joey De Mare:
A Day at the Farm and a Pop-Up at Chasing Sage
My recent day with Joey De Mare, owner of De Mare Raw Bar and Farm Manager of Lowcountry Oyster Co., was an unforgettable journey into the heart of Lowcountry oyster farming and the artistry behind bringing fresh oysters to the Charleston food scene. Joey’s passion for sustainable aquaculture and his culinary vision radiates from every interaction, whether out on the farm or during a pop-up event at Chasing Sage.
Nestled along Charleston’s picturesque coast, Lowcountry Oyster Companies farm represents a dedication to nature and sustainable practices. As soon as we arrived, the salt-kissed air and vast, glistening waters set the stage for what he described as both “an art and a science.” Joey shared his meticulous approach to oyster farming, from choosing the right breeding conditions to ensuring each oyster grows with the right balance of brine and sweetness unique to Charleston's waters.
We spent time observing the farming process up close, and Joey enthusiastically explained how vital every step is, from seeding to harvesting. He pointed out that each oyster is influenced by the local tides, temperature, and even the soil. Holding a freshly harvested oyster, I saw the pride Joey has in his work—a pride echoed by his commitment to supplying sustainably farmed oysters to Charleston’s dining scene.
After the farm experience, we transitioned to the lively atmosphere of Chasing Sage, where Joey was hosting a De Mare Raw Bar pop-up. The mood was electric as he prepared a curated selection of oysters, pairing them with unique, seasonal garnishes inspired by Charleston’s flavors. Patrons were visibly impressed by the variety and quality of the oysters, many of them marveling at how each one reflected the character of the Lowcountry.
Spending the day with Joey showed me the depth of passion, dedication, and respect for the environment behind his work. From the oyster beds to the dining table, Joey is driven by a vision to bring Charleston’s natural bounty to diners in an ethical and artful way. His commitment to sustainable, locally sourced seafood adds something truly special to Charleston’s vibrant food scene.
Whether at a farm or in a pop-up at a restaurant like Chasing Sage, Joey’s influence on the oyster industry and his dedication to sharing the taste of Charleston’s waters is a culinary experience everyone should have. It was a privilege to see his world and witness firsthand the journey from tide to table.
