Delaware North has been selected as the exclusive food-service partner of Boston’s New England Aquarium, managing all food services — including catering, events and visitor dining. Delaware North’s Patina Restaurant Group took over operations on Jan. 1, 2019.
For Delaware North, the aquarium is the latest in a series of recent new business efforts in Boston that include Logan International Airport, the massive Hub on Causeway development and the expansion of TD Garden.
“We’re delighted to now be a part of the New England Aquarium family with this new partnership,” said Jim Houser, executive vice president and chief operating officer of Delaware North. “We’re looking forward to bringing delicious, locally driven, sustainable dining to the aquarium in a beautiful new setting.”
As part of the new partnership, New England Aquarium’s Harbor View Café and seasonal space, The Reef, will both undergo a significant refresh to create new dining experiences.
Harbor View Café will be transformed into a modern casual dining experience that features new furnishings and a mix of communal tables, banquets and tables for two. New farm-to-table menus will embrace New England coastal cuisine such as lobster rolls, Gloucester fish fry and North End subs — all sourced locally.
The Reef, outdoor dining situated on the Aquarium Plaza with stunning views of the harbor and city of Boston, will be renovated with a new al fresco glass pavilion structure. A sweeping sail tent will house seating, with a large bar featuring views of the open kitchen. Simply grilled day-boat fish, mezze bowls and iced shellfish will be on the menu, alongside craft cocktails.
The selection of Delaware North’s Patina Restaurant Group as exclusive caterer at New England Aquarium comes after a competitive national search for a food partner that could meet the needs of its growing community and clientele while accommodating a longstanding dedication to sustainable practices.