The Oyster Legacy: From Bill the Oysterman to Parker’s Picks
How did I end up here? The short answer: my love of seafood and my desire to make new friends. But like any good story, there’s a bit more to it …
For over 30 years, I was friends with Bill Callahan (Bill the Oysterman). In the last dozen years of his life, I was both his business manager and #1 crew lead—working side by side to bring great oysters to the people.
When Bill passed, I carried on his legacy, operating as Parker Presents: Bill Oysterman. The dancing oyster from those early years remains an enduring icon of that time.
Now, five years later, it’s time to align my brand for the future:

The Goldilocks of Oysters
I work with a small, exclusive group of oyster farmers, and every week, I hand-pick oysters from the San Francisco docks. My dedication to getting oysters that are just right earned me the nickname Goldilocks—and I wear that title proudly.
“Bring oyster goodness, and everything else will work out.”
Expanding the Vision: Parker’s Picks (PKPX)
I officially bought the business in 2020—literally one week before the world shut down. With events on pause, I had to get creative.
That’s when Parker’s Picks (PKPX) was born. I started offering exceptional seafood I found at the docks—things like:
- Day-Boat Scallops from Nova Scotia
- Ahi Tuna from Tahiti
What started as an occasional offering quickly became a trusted source for incredible seafood.


People behind the bar

Parker Stokes
Owner
My #1 goal in continuing the legacy of Bill Oysterman is to bring oyster goodness for all. That can be at a local winery, brewery, or other public venue (think Bonny Doon Art&Wine Festival). I work directly with the best oyster farms in the west coast to bring you the “best of the west.” My on-going friendship with the farmers creates a great feedback loop and are able to assure amazing oysters even when supplies are tight. I usually make the run to SF where the oyster arrive under cover of darkness each Friday. Since I am on the docks at 5am, I get my choice. I am particular enough about it that my nickname on the docks is Goldilocks.
My approach to pricing is all inclusive. That means one bottom-line number for your event. It helps your budget and allows me to scope the right amount of oysters for your party. When you hire my company we arrive early and stay late.. We keep serving until we run out of oysters or you lose interest, whichever happens first.

Camila Velasco
Crew Lead
I was born and raised in California with a deep rooted love for seafood. It was very natural for me to become part of the oyster family! I started working for Bill 24 years ago. Working with Parker over the past several years I meet amazing people, go on great adventures, and having wonderful stories to tell. I hope you’ll tell me your story.

Alvaro
Crew Lead
My history on the bar starts back all the way to high school. I worked a couple bars and got to work closely with Parker and Bill at notable events like the Grateful Dead Archive at UCSC and St Paddy’s day at CB Hannegan’s. As a teenager getting to party and be part of such fun events with all the great people was one of the highlights of my young life. Fast forward after about a 10-years later, I was approached by Parker and he asked me if I wanted to join the bar. I have now been fortunate enough to be part of the bar and continue to be a part of the legacy that continues. I love to get questions about my history on the bar but even more I love to continue to make more memories on the bar.

Don Taylor
Crew Lead
I’m often asked how I ended up working behind the oyster bar. It started when I was carpooling with Parker almost 20 years ago. One Friday I noticed ice chests in the back of the car and asked about them. Next thing I knew we were on the docks of San Francisco at 5am sampling oysters from various farms. What I’ve found over the years is that the oyster bar is even more than great oysters. It’s about people, friendships, and stories that come to the bar. I look forward to hearing and sharing your story when we meet.

Christine Dindia
Crew Lead
I am a Chicago native and Santa Clara grad with a deep love for oysters and the way they bring people together. Since 2022, I’ve been shucking with Parker and his team. I feel we create unforgettable experiences centered around good food, great company, and even better wine. My favorite part of the bar is how oysters have been the catalyst for amazing gatherings, lasting friendships, and a much-improved wine selection in my cabinet. When I’m not popping oysters, I’m celebrating my son’s journey as he prepares to graduate from college and cheering on the Cubs.