You can’t talk chowder without a visit to Long Beach Island’s Country Kettle Chowda, which has been a contender in the Shore town’s annual Chowderfest competition since the beloved event began over 30 years ago.
Head to Beach Haven, and in the heart of Bay Village you’ll find John Maschal’s award-winning varieties. County Kettle Chowda is a takeout eatery, but there are plenty of outdoor tables for enjoying your soup on the spot. You can taste traditional New England Chowder, Lobsta Bisque, Manhattan Clam or Rhode Island Red. And there’s even the option of a fresh sourdough bread bowl.
Savor Country Kettle’s creamy New England Clam Chowder—in a sourdough bread bowl, if you so choose.
Ahead of Chowderfest on October 1, visit the LBI region to hit the Chowder Trail. Sample chowders from participating eateries anytime this summer, then vote for your favorites online beginning Saturday, September 3. To register for the Chowder Trail—as well as download the Chowder Trail playlist, find lodging info and view event videos—visit chowderfest.com.
This year, Country Kettle has one entry in each category up for the vote: White (New England Clam), Red (Manhattan Clam) and Creative (Lobsta Bisque). In 2021, as in many years past, Chowderfest’s Traveling Tasters voted Country Kettle Chowda into Chowder Champion status, giving the eatery a win in the Red Category for the Manhattan Clam. The flavorful red chowder, made with a time-tested recipe, is chock-fill of fresh veggies and clams. 2021 also saw the Lobsta Bisque win in the Creative Category. All of these soups are available fresh every day. (Want to end your meal with something sweet? Country Kettle Fudge Shop, just around the corner, features hand-whipped fudge made on site.)
Someone’s enjoying Country Kettle’s famous Lobsta Bisque. (Should we tell him?)
This year’s 34th annual Chowderfest will feature live music, chowder for purchase, merchants, wine, seltzer, a variety of beer on tap, and surprise activities. The free event will conclude with an award ceremony announcing the 2022 champions.
Presented by the Southern Ocean County Chamber of Commerce, which has been serving area businesses and visitors since 1914, LBI’s Chowderfest showcases the barrier island and its bayfront communities. The festival’s focus on locally sourced and sustainable ingredients, unique recipes, and pride of place creates a one-of-a-kind culinary adventure throughout early fall.
For more information on the Southern Ocean County Chamber of Commerce, call 609-494-7211 or visit their virtual visitor center.