Our most popular frozen half shell oyster, the Heavenly Headley, is the ideal market size - perfect for the novice and expert alike. With balanced Chesapeake flavor and versatile appeal, it's the oyster that does all the heavy lifting.
Medium Virginia oysters, cryogenically frozen on the half shell
Professionally shucked—grit and shell free, every time
Frozen within 24 hours of harvest for peak freshness
Heavenly Headley is the versatile favorite—meaty enough to grill, refined enough to serve raw, and consistently delicious every time.
Suitable for chilled on the shell with a bit of horseradish or baked Oyster Florentine, the Heavenly Headley impresses oyster aficionados and first-timers alike. Our cryogenic freezing process preserves authentic "merroir" without rinsing or glazing, ensuring maximum flavor and a grit-free experience.
Shucked by master
craftsmen
Frozen within 24
hours of harvest
Vibrio-reduced via FDA-
recognized process
Grit and shell free
Sustainably raised
in Chesapeake Bay
Ships on dry ice, lasts
12 months frozen
Heavenly Headley impresses at weddings, dinner parties, and raw bar presentations. Versatile enough for any preparation - no shucking required.
Heavenly Headley impresses at weddings, dinner parties, and raw bar presentations. Versatile enough for any preparation - no shucking required.
Named after A.B. Headley, who began our family's oyster journey in 1890 on the Coan River, Heavenly Headley represents the balance of heritage and innovation at the heart of Cowart Seafood.
From Virginia's first oyster leases to today's cutting-edge cryogenic technology, five generations have perfected the art of bringing the best of the Chesapeake Bay to your table.
Heavenly Headley oysters are designed for convenience without compromise:
Remove from freezer – No advance planning needed
Defrost 40 minutes at room temperature – Quick and effortless
Serve raw or cook – Enjoy on the half shell or prepare your favorite recipe
Heavenly Headley 40-count serves 6-8 people as an appetizer, or 3-4 people as a main course.
The ideal medium size appeals to both beginners and oyster enthusiasts. It's versatile enough for any preparation method and has balanced flavor that pleases every palate.
For best results, defrost for 20 minutes at room temperature before cooking. This ensures even heating and optimal texture.
Sweet Sewell is our smallest (petite and delicate), Heavenly Headly is medium (ideal versatile size), and Big Lake is our largest (4-5 inches, bold and meaty). Choose based on your preference and preparation style.
Absolutely. Heavenly Headly's consistent size and professional presentation make them perfect for raw bars, weddings, corporate events, and dinner parties. No on-site shucker needed.
Join thousands of customers who've made Heavenly Headley their go-to oyster.
FDA | BRC | VDH Certified
All our facilities are certified by the Virginia Department of Health, FDA, BRC, and are allergen-free. We conduct internal audits to provide the healthiest and safest processing and products.
