PORTLAND, Maine — On July 18th, the Maine Lobster Marketing Collaborative (MLMC) dove into the D.C. culinary scene, bringing a taste of Maine Lobster to culinary influencers. As a hot spot for fine cuisine, D.C.'s community of both up-and-coming and experienced chefs has helped increase Maine Lobster's prevalence on menus—especially as the spotlight on sustainable seafood becomes increasingly important.
In partnership with celebrity Chef Kwame Onwuachi of the soon-to-open The Shaw Bijou in D.C., Maine Lobster hosted an industry night celebration with the city's top chefs and media to discuss the culinary versatility of lobster, Maine's sustainable harvesting practice, and the how the industry has a broader impact on the state of Maine and its economy. "I recently got a chance to visit Maine and experience first-hand the Maine Lobster story," said Chef Onwuachi. "It's truly an incredible industry and the story you get to share with customers is unbeatable. I'm so proud to be offering Maine Lobster as part of our new menu at The Shaw Bijou."
With the Maine Lobster catch continuing to grow, the industry is exploring new culinary markets. "D.C. is not only a political powerhouse, but also a culinary hub with top name chefs as well as chefs who are just starting out, looking for an interesting story to share with their diners," says Matt Jacobson, Executive Director of the MLMC.
"The passion for provenance that the chefs in this city have is unparalleled," says Barton Seaver chef, author and sustainable seafood expert. "It's not surprising to see the interest in the Maine Lobster story. And as a Maine resident and a former DC restaurateur, I couldn't be happier to be a part of it."
The Maine Lobster Marketing Collaborative has brought the "Maine After Midnight" event to chefs in Atlanta, and is gearing up for their final stop in New York City. For the latest on these events, follow #MaineLobster and visit www.lobsterfrommaine.com
About the MLMC
The Maine Lobster Marketing Collaborative (MLMC), founded in 2013, is funded by Maine Lobster harvesters, dealers and processors to grow demand, both for whole live lobster and a variety of value-added products. The MLMC supports that objective by promoting the core values of the Maine Lobster industry, which are sustainability and traceability that's deeply rooted in tradition. Maine Lobster achieved the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) certification in 2013, allowing Maine Lobster to certify its long-standing sustainable practices. The industry has been self-regulating for more than 150 years.
Source: The Maine Lobster Marketing Collaborative (MLMC)