Today is your day if oysters are your thing, but if you’ve never tried them don’t fret. They may look a little intimidating, but once you get a taste for them, there’s no turning back. If you’re up for trying something new, keep these three short and sweet tips in mind:

1. Know your oysters. Are you eating East Coast oysters are West Coast Oysters? Are they from The Gulf or farther up the Eastern Seaboard?

2. If you don’t know, ask. It’s really OK! There’s nothing wrong with asking your server for a recommendation. That’s what they’re there for, and besides. This is a great way to get a free sample or two. After asking, start trying!  The whole point is to taste a variety of oysters, so mix up your order and find your favorites.

3. Know what oysters shouldn’t be like. Oysters should smell like the sea. Salty and fresh. If it smells off, don’t eat it. If the oyster has a big belly and is leaking juices that are cloudy, that means that the oyster is reproducing. It’s not bad to eat an oyster in this condition, but they don’t taste their best this way.