From Sea to Table: Eventide’s Ode to New England’s Lobster Bake
Bringing New England’s Heritage to The Fenway
In the heart of The Fenway, there’s a place where the salty air mingles with the laughter of friends and family, and the hum of conversation is punctuated by the satisfying crack of a lobster shell. Eventide Oyster Co. isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a celebration of tradition—specifically, the age-old New England lobster bake that has brought people together for generations.
A Journey Back to Maine
The story of Eventide begins with Chef Andrew Taylor, whose love for the ocean and its bounty was born on the shores of Maine. Summers spent gathering with family around roaring bonfires and feasting on freshly caught seafood forged a deep connection to the communal experience of sharing a meal. It’s this spirit of togetherness that inspired him to open Eventide, where each plate is a tribute to the rich maritime history of New England.
Maine’s history of lobster fishing is not just a backdrop; it’s the very essence of Eventide’s menu. “Sourcing sustainably from fishermen who respect the ocean is crucial,” Chef Taylor explains. “Maine has a long-standing commitment to preserving its natural resources, and we honor that tradition by adapting our dishes to highlight what’s freshest each season.” It’s a nod to the past that ensures the future of lobster fishing remains bright.
The Heart of the Lobster Bake Tradition
At Eventide, the New England Style Lobster Bake isn’t merely a dish; it’s a cherished tradition steeped in history. This communal feast traces its roots back to Indigenous peoples who cooked shellfish over open fires, a practice adopted by European settlers and transformed into the beloved summer gatherings we know today. For Eventide Oyster Co., the lobster bake is more than food; it’s an embodiment of community, friendship, and family ties.
“I remember those summer days, laughing and cracking open lobsters with my family,” he reflects. “The lobster bake represents that joy, that sense of togetherness. It’s about creating memories around the table.” When you sit down for a lobster bake at Eventide, you’re participating in a time-honored ritual that brings people closer, inviting guests to set aside their phones and truly connect with one another.
Crafting a Memorable Experience
The essence of a lobster bake lies in its hands-on nature. Guests at Eventide are encouraged to dive in—literally. With a table prepped with butcher paper and all the necessary tools, the experience becomes a delightful, messy affair. “Cracking shells, peeling seafood, and passing dishes around creates an engaging atmosphere,” Chef Taylor explains. “It’s about making memories, not just filling stomachs.”
Eventide elevates this tradition with a unique twist: alongside the classic lobster, clams, potatoes, and corn, you’ll find unexpected additions like salt pork, knackwurst, and even steamed buns. These flavors pay homage to both the past and the present, enriching the communal experience with culinary creativity. And as the laughter echoes and the seafood disappears, the shared joy of the meal fosters connections that can last a lifetime.
Toasting to Tradition
To wash down this feast, Eventide offers a selection of drinks that perfectly complement the flavors of the sea. Whether you’re reaching for a crisp, dry white wine or a refreshing IPA, each sip adds to the rich tapestry of the dining experience. And let’s not forget dessert—what’s a feast without a sweet ending? Indulge in classic New England treats like whoopie pies or a soft serve to wrap up your culinary journey.
At Eventide Oyster Co., every meal is a story waiting to be told—a narrative woven through family traditions, sustainable sourcing, and the simple joy of sharing good food with great company. So, gather your friends and family, roll up your sleeves, and dive into a New England lobster bake that honors the past while creating new memories for the future. In The Fenway, tradition isn’t just alive; it’s thriving at Eventide.