York River Oyster Company opened for business recently at York River Yacht Haven, Gloucester Point.

The new restaurant offers a varied menu that is aimed mostly at local diners, owner Mario Buffa said, although he expects some boaters to tie up at the adjacent marina, owned by Dallas-based Suntex Marinas, and come in to dine.

The restaurant is open daily for lunch and dinner, with specials each day.

Using the slogan “A Shell of a Good Time!” the restaurant offers several different dining settings at one location. There are two large dining rooms inside, plus a covered deck and a covered patio. Full-service bars are set up by inside and out. Total seating capacity is about 250.

The restaurant will purchase fresh fish from local watermen, Buffa said, and plans to grow some of its herbs onsite.

The menu features a mix of upscale and casual fare. For example, entrees include fried oysters, wasabi sesame crusted ahi, seafood paella, sirloin steak, and a wide selection of pi...