The NOLA Bump: A Technical Guide to Oyster and Caviar Pairings
If you are going to serve a luxury product, you do it with absolute precision or you do not do it at all. At Rougarou Shuckers, whether we are shucking for an intimate dinner for 10 or a wedding for 150, we lead with the science of the shell.
While we have become a staple for New Orleans wedding catering, the NOLA Bump is designed to elevate any high-end celebration, from private anniversary dinners in your backyard to black-tie receptions at historic venues. This is not a simple garnish; it is a calculated pairing of oyster salinity and caviar lipids. Because we are a founder-led operation, Clayton and Shahi are on-site for every event to ensure the technical integrity of the pairing.
The Technical Pairing Guide for Private Events
We source boutique shells from across the continent to provide our clients with a specific flight of flavors for their private parties.
Boutique Gulf Shells (Grande Island Gems & Bright Side) - These are sweet, meaty, off-bottom oysters with a controlled, elegant salinity. We pair these with Siberian Sturgeon or Hackleback caviar. Because these shells are naturally buttery, you need a sharper caviar with a distinct pop to cut through that richness. This pairing creates the high-contrast finish that defines our signature service.
North Atlantic Oysters (PEI) - Cold-water shells from regions like Prince Edward Island are crisp and salt-forward. We use the nutty, buttery pearls of Royal Ossetra to soften that salt. The fat in the caviar balances the Atlantic brine perfectly, making it a favorite for high-end celebrations.
West Coast Oysters (Pacific Northwest) - These varieties are typically smaller and deeper, often carrying signature notes of cucumber or melon. We pair them with White Sturgeon, which is mild and clean. This allows the delicate melon notes of the oyster to remain front and center without being overpowered by the roe.
A perfect pairing for your celebration.
Why the Shucker Matters for the Caviar Experience
A careless shucker, the kind of low-quality service typical of high-volume commodity caterers, will ruin a caviar program in seconds. They lose the natural oyster liquor or leave shell fragments behind.
We ensure 100% liquor preservation because that natural brine is the essential sauce for the caviar. Without it, the bump is just a dry garnish. Whether it is a formal wedding reception or a gathering in your own backyard, that level of detail is what our clients expect from a boutique raw bar.
Versatile Scale: From 10 to 150 Guests
Our model scales seamlessly without losing the personal touch. We handle gatherings of 10 just as easily as a 150-person celebration at a major venue.
Logistically, we pride ourselves on being the most adaptable caterers in New Orleans. We are 100% power-independent and require zero commercial kitchen access. As long as we have a standard water source, we can execute a world-class caviar program in any setting, including residential backyards, narrow balconies, and historic courtyards.
Are you ready to bring the NOLA Bump to your next event? Whether you are planning a wedding or a private celebration, hit the Book It button to secure your 2026 date. Luxury of this caliber fills up fast.
