In the charming coastal town of Cancale , known for its exquisite oysters, a remarkable event recently took place that showcased the local delicacies to an international audience. Sébastien Daniel , co-founder of *Les Huîtres de la Côte d’Émeraude*, fondly recalls being contacted about a month ago by a film crew planning to feature a foreign celebrity on the town’s famous oyster market. “We were informed that this well-known celebrity would come to taste our oysters on Wednesday, June 4, 2025. To our surprise, she arrived on Monday instead, likely for confidentiality reasons,” he explains while conveying a hint of disappointment at missing the occasion.
On that notable day, it was Armelle , a dedicated employee of the company, who had the unique opportunity to engage with the actress Eva Longoria —former partner to French basketball star Tony Parker . Eva didn’t just film and comment on the experience; she embraced the local flavor wholeheartedly. “She savored a dozen oysters, a delightful mix of six flats and six creuses,” Armelle reported back to her team, comprised of generations of oyster farmers.
She enjoyed a dozen oysters—six flats and six creuses.
The international star is currently filming an upcoming culinary show titled ” À la recherche de la France ,” which will focus on French gastronomy and is set to air in 2026 in the United States. On her culinary journey, before indulging in the oysters at the market, Eva was spotted in a portside restaurant and a park where she accompanied an oyster farmer. Clad in a casual ensemble of jeans, a sweater, and boots, her attire stood in stark contrast to the haute couture gowns and high heels she typically wears at glamorous events. This down-to-earth appearance resonated with her audience, illustrating her appreciation for local roots and authentic experiences.
Armelle, an employee of Les Huîtres de la Côte d’Émeraude, served oysters to Eva Longoria at the Cancale oyster market. (Le Télégramme / Photo courtesy of Les Huîtres de la Côte d’Emeraude)
Upcoming Italian Chef at the Market
Exciting news continues to ripple through the crustacean-laden air of Cancale. Rumors suggest that in the upcoming weeks, a renowned Italian chef plans to visit the oyster market. The fame of Cancale’s oysters, especially those from Les Huîtres de la Côte d’Émeraude, has transcended local boundaries, garnering attention across gastronomy circles worldwide. Armelle shared that their production is sold directly to consumers not only at the Cancale market but also at other venues in Saint-Jouan-des-Guérets , Gévezé , Pleslin-Trigavou , and even as far as Eure-et-Loir . In a few months, American viewers will undoubtedly get a taste of what makes these oysters the pride of Brittany .
The encounters of celebrity chef Eva Longoria at Cancale’s oyster market reflect not only the culinary heritage of the region but also the incredible craftsmanship of its locals. As more world-class figures sign up to experience the beauty and savoriness of Cancale’s oysters, it’s a testament to how local traditions can reach new heights in global gastronomy . Tourists, food lovers, and culinary experts alike will soon have even more reasons to visit this stunning coastal town, proudly showcasing its gastronomical treasures.
