Planning a clambake for your next event? Whether it’s a family reunion, wedding, or corporate event, nothing says feast like a traditional New England clambake with fresh lobster, clams, and all the trimmings.
However, pulling off a clambake isn’t just about throwing some seafood in a pot — it takes expertise, the right ingredients, and a caterer who knows their way around a traditional clambake setup.
So, how do you choose the right clambake caterer? Let’s dive in!
Don’t Settle for Just Any Caterer
When it comes to clambake catering, experience matters. Not every caterer is familiar with the unique art of a New England clambake, which involves cooking seafood and sides like corn, potatoes, and sausages all at once.
Ask your potential caterer how many clambakes they’ve done and whether they specialize in this type of event. A seasoned caterer will know how to manage every aspect, from perfectly timing the seafood to ensuring every guest gets a steaming plate of deliciousness.
Key Questions To Ask When Choosing a Clambake Caterer
To ensure you’re choosing a clambake caterer who can handle your event, here are some questions you should ask upfront.
What’s on the menu?
Clambakes are all about variety! While lobster and clams are staples, a good caterer should offer options like shrimp, mussels, steak, chicken, or vegetarian dishes. Check their menu variety and see if they can cater to different tastes.
How do you handle dietary restrictions?
These days, it’s rare to find an event where no one has a dietary restriction. Whether your guests are gluten-free, dairy-free, or allergic to shellfish (ironic at a clambake, but it happens), make sure your caterer can accommodate those needs. Ask if they have separate cooking equipment and utensils for allergen-free options.
Do you cook on-site?
One of the best parts of a clambake is the experience of cooking everything fresh, often in a giant pit or steamer. Find out if your caterer handles on-site cooking or pre-prepares the food. On-site cooking creates an authentic experience and guarantees freshness!
Staffing, Setup, and Cleanup
A great clambake is about more than just food — it’s also about creating a seamless experience for you and your guests. Ask your caterer what’s included in their package when it comes to staffing, setup, and cleanup. Here are a few things to consider:
Staff: You’ll need servers, cooks, and maybe even bartenders, depending on the size of your event. Make sure your clambake caterer has enough hands on deck to keep things running smoothly.
Setup and Cleanup: The last thing you want is to spend hours setting up tables, arranging decor, or scrubbing pots after the party. Ensure that your caterer takes care of setup, cooking, and cleanup so you can enjoy the event stress-free.
Equipment: Clambake caterers often bring specialized gear like steamers, grills, and tents. Ask what’s included in their service and whether there are any additional fees for equipment.
Sourcing Fresh Seafood
The heart of any clambake is, of course, the seafood. Freshness is non-negotiable! A top-notch clambake caterer will source their seafood locally, ensuring your guests enjoy the best quality.
Ask where their seafood comes from and how often they get deliveries. Caterers working closely with local fishmongers or docks usually have the freshest ingredients.
Pricing, Deposit, and Cancellation
Make sure you get clarity on the pricing structure when choosing a clambake caterer. Many caterers charge per guest, but there may be additional costs for staff, equipment, and special dietary requests.
Ask about any deposits required to lock in your date, and don’t forget to clarify their cancellation policy. Events can sometimes be unpredictable, so it’s good to know if and when you can get a refund if plans change.
Wrapping Up
Selecting a clambake caterer doesn’t have to be stressful. Now that you know how to choose a clambake caterer and what to look for, you can confidently plan your next event with a delicious clambake on the menu.
Just remember, experience, menu variety, dietary accommodations, on-site cooking, and pricing are all essential factors to consider when deciding. With the right caterer, you can sit back, relax, and enjoy an unforgettable clambake that your guests will rave about for days.
Whether you’re hosting a small gathering or a large event, East Coast Clambakes is here to help. We specialize in creating authentic New England clambakes for all occasions. Contact us today to learn more about our menu options and catering services! We can’t wait to bring a taste of the sea to your next event!