Since 1983
The first time we tried to eat here it was closed (may it was because it was Monday or maybe it was because it was New Years). But eventually (January 3rd which was a Tuesday) we went when it was open. Apparently there is also a branch in Mobile on Battleship Parkway which was opened two years after the original Original in 1985.
They have Early Bird specials, and are smoke free. They also have a large Oyster shopping area.
The Original Oyster actually bought the Bayou Village Shopping Center (where the original Original is) in 1995. Their website says: "Nestled along the shore of the beautiful Gulf Shores bayou, Bayou Village is a quaint specialty shopping center with great stores including Birkenstock Shoes and Patagonia Sportswear." Although the sun sets very early in January, we were able to watch the last little bit of the sunset from our table.
I had shrimp au Gratin with the salad bar and cheese grits for $13.90. Bob had a salad bar and gumbo $8.50
The bill before tip was $23.69

view of strip of island we're on, Gulf on left.
gulf shores beach infront of our beach house
Little cheese breads
Specialty Pizza