There are a limited number of tickets still available for the sixth annual Claw Down – Maine Lobster Bite Competition. The competition features 10 Maine chefs who will compete with their best lobster bite for the title of 2017 Maine Claw Down Chef of the Year.
This lobster lover’s event, hosted by the Boothbay Region Chamber of Commerce, will take place on Thursday, Sept. 14 from 6-9 p.m. at the Newagen Seaside Inn, 60 Colony Road, Southport. All parking will be located at Southport Island Marine, at 648 Hendricks Hill Road in Southport, with five-minute shuttle service to and from the venue.
If indulging in all-you-can-eat handcrafted lobster bites and the choicest wine and beer is not enough to satisfy one’s appetite, this year the event will feature Portland’s Sister Steel for some “after-bite” dancing and fun. The talented team at the Boothbay Region Greenhouses will transform the tent at Newagen Seaside Inn with accented up-lighting, greenery, and nautical decor.
In its sixth year, the Boothbay Region Chamber of Commerce’s signature culinary fundraiser draws lobster fans from all over the United States. Claw Down’s overall mission is to promote local lobster, showcase the tsunami of award-winning culinary talent in Maine, and bring people from all over the country to the area to eat, stay, and play for the weekend, after the Claw Down is over.
This year, 500 pounds of shucked local lobster will be handcrafted into prizeworthy lobster bites. Guests will have the chance to cast their votes for the People’s Choice Award and there will be an award for Best Table and Presentation.
The Judges’ Choice winner will be selected through a panel of four industry-renowned judges — Chris Papagni, Portland food writer and consultant; Arlin Smith, owner of Hugo’s and Honey Paws, and co-owner of Eventide in Portland; Pamela Laskey, founder of Maine Foodie Tours; and Diane Hudson, Portland food and features writer — via blind-judging.
Boothbay Region Chamber of Commerce Board President Michael Maxim will serve as master of ceremonies. The chefs will also have their say as they cast their votes for the Chefs’ Choice Award.
The Judges’ Choice winner will be invited to participate at Harvest on the Harbor to compete in its Maine Lobster Chef competition to be held in October.
Eleven restaurants/chefs will compete in the sixth annual Claw Down:
– Nathaniel Adam, executive sous chef at Boothbay Harbor Country Club
– Chef Kelly Patrick Farrin of Carriage House Restaurant
– Chef Stanley Hornsby of Cod’s Head Fish House & BBQ
– Chef Daron Goldstein of Feast Maine Catering
– Chef John Dexter of Linekin Bay Resort
– Chef Ralph Smith of Mine Oyster Raw Bar & Gathering Place
– Chef David of Oak Street Provisions
– Chef Mike Nguyen of Oliver’s at Cozy Harbor Wharf
– Chef Karin Guerin of the Boat House Bistro Tapas Bar & Restaurant
– Chef Dick Reid of The Thistle Inn
– Chef Daniel Lynch of 1820 House
Cocktail attire is suggested for the Claw Down event. Tickets are $65. A limited number of VIP tickets for $95 include parking pass, a handcrafted plate by Alison Evans, an extra drink ticket, and a pre-event party. Tickets are nonrefundable and both tickets include handcrafted lobster bites, wine, beer, a coffee bar, and dessert. One must be 21-plus with ID to attend.
Call the Boothbay Region Chamber of Commerce at 633-2353 or email seamaine@boothbayharbor.com for more information. Learn more at boothbayharbor.com.
Only chef, vendor, VIP, and handicapped parking is available at the Newagen Seaside Inn. Please park at Southport Island Marine and take a quick complimentary shuttle ride to the inn.
