Simply. Good. Food. Oystertown is an intimate oyster counter and eatery where fresh, seasonal ingredients are the stars. Our composed dishes, sparkling-focused beverage program, and curated retail options reflect our dedication to providing an exceptional, welcoming, and multi-faceted dining experience.

Oystertown combines East Coast oyster bar traditions with the vibrant spirit of California. Led by executive chef and author Philip Wojtowicz, founder of the Big Sur Bakery and Poppy Hall and Monica Schweiger, a wine and hospitality expert, the duo brings over 30 years of combined experience in creating memorable culinary adventures. Oystertown fosters connection, conversation, and wellness while redefining the modern oyster bar experience.

Exterior view of a restaurant named Oystertown with white double doors, a potted cactus and succulents, a sign hanging above, and stairs leading to an upper level.
A man wearing a black hat, striped apron, and a long-sleeve shirt, standing at a wooden table with a cutting board and shellfish, in front of a wall decorated with framed photographs and artwork. The wall has a sign that reads 'JERRY TAKIGAWA'.
Modern, minimalistic bar with a large concrete countertop, surrounded by wooden barstools with black cushions, in a spacious, industrial-style interior with small high windows and exposed ductwork.
Oysters on a bed of ice with lemon wedge and dipping sauce in a restaurant setting.
Modern cafe interior with bar seating, green chairs, tables, wall plants, and tropical wallpaper.
A man in a navy jacket and white shirt smiling at a table set with seafood dishes, including oysters, a lobster toast, and a plate with a green sauce, inside a restaurant near glass doors with a garden view.
A woman smiling at the camera in a kitchen or bar area, holding a plate with two small gourmet dishes. She is wearing a navy blue T-shirt with a graphic that says 'Oystertown'. In front of her, there is a glass of wine and a small flower arrangement

THE TEAM

Executive Chef

Philip Wojtowicz

Philip Wojtowicz was raised on bold flavors, big family meals, and a deep respect for seasonal ingredients—a foundation that continues to shape his distinct, ingredient-driven approach to cooking.

His early experiences in kitchens fueled a passion for the craft, eventually leading him west. The move to Northern California began a love affair with the area's vibrant food culture. He found himself captivated by the bounty of the Central Coast—farm-fresh produce, wild herbs, and the endless possibilities of the Pacific Ocean.

Philip made his mark in the food world as the co-founder of the iconic Big Sur Bakery. Opened in 2003, the eatery quickly became a must-visit destination, renowned for its wood-fired breads, inventive pastries, and an ever-changing menu that celebrates the finest local ingredients. Its success led to the publication of The Big Sur Bakery Cookbook,  a heartfelt collection of recipes and stories that captured the rugged spirit and natural beauty of the California coastline and its people.

Philip's culinary journey continued with Poppy Hall, a Pacific Grove gem that showcased his love for unique flavor combinations and elevated comfort food. Throughout his career, he has earned widespread recognition, with features in The New York Times, Bon Appétit, Food & Wine, and Sunset Magazine, all of which praised his ability to create deeply satisfying and artfully composed meals.

With his newest venture, Oystertown U.S.A. in New Monterey, Philip brings his years of expertise to a fresh concept, focusing on pristine seafood, bold flavors, and a welcoming atmosphere. The intimate space is designed to foster conversation and connection, echoing his philosophy that a great meal is about more than just food; it's about the experience. With a deep respect for the local bounty and a dedication to creating dishes that surprise and delight, Philip Wojtowicz continues to shape the region's culinary landscape, one unforgettable meal at a time.

GENERAL MANAGER

MONICA SCHWEIGER

Monica Schweiger was raised at the beach, enveloped in the style, stories and flavors of the SoCal experience. Those influences continue to fuel her creative approach to modern hospitality.

The first chapter of her career unfolded in the fast-paced world of fashion, where she was an editor at top-tier publications, including Details, New York Magazine, and Women's Wear Daily. Her work took her from New York to Los Angeles, but the earthy beauty of Sonoma County ultimately called her home.

Monica opened The Mercantile Shop in Healdsburg, an artfully curated destination store featuring California designers and wine country provisions. Immersed in a community of vintners and artisans, her love of hospitality and flavors flourished. That passion led her to Banshee Wines, where she applied her editorial sensibility and marketing acumen to build a tasting room experience that felt more like a friend's living room—complete with vintage vinyl, comfy sofas, and cool Cali vibes.

Monica next brought her signature blend of hospitality and creativity to VML Winery, elevating the guest experience with friendly service and restaurant pop-ups that celebrated the rich relationship between food and wine. Her journey continued at I. Brand & Family in Carmel Valley, where she managed the winery's direct-to-consumer operations and wine club.

In true Hollywood meet-cute style, Monica's next chapter began serendipitously. On a coastal drive, she discovered Poppy Hall, and after one unforgettable meal and meeting chef Philip Wojtowicz, she knew she had found something special. That moment sparked a partnership, and today, Monica serves as GM of Oystertown, overseeing design, marketing, and operations. With her deep roots in California's creative and culinary scenes, Monica brings heart, vision, and a whole lot of flavor to everything she does.