Today we’d like to introduce you to Brian Packer.
Hi Brian, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My wife and I moved to St. Augustine with our 3 kids in 2021. Once we got settled, it felt really important to open a business as a way to connect with and pour into the community. I was familiar with Outer Banks Boil Company and loved not only their seafood boils, but how it was really about bringing customers a unique and memorable experience. It seemed like the perfect business to bring to St. Augustine. After teaming up with the guys in the Outer Banks, we finally opened our store in St. Augustine Beach in August of 2023. And it’s been so fun every day since!
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
We’ve had to learn this market, as it’s different than the market in the Outer Banks of North Carolina where the company started and where most of their locations are located. Those markets are driven primarily by large groups visiting the beach and staying in rental homes, one week at a time, almost exclusively in the summer months. In St. Augustine we have fewer large rental homes. And while we see an uptick in business during the summer, we’re not nearly as seasonal here. In fact, November and December are really busy months for us. We also have an incredible group of loyal, local customers. All in all, we’re figuring it out and even though the market is different, we’re definitely learning, growing, and loving it.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
We offer the best seafood boils around, in two unique ways. First, as a catered seafood boil experience where we come on-site, cook, serve, and even clean up your boil. Just sit back and enjoy! We interact with guests, explain our cooking methods, and when we pour out the boil it’s always a “wow” moment! Second, we provide takeout steamer pots–a pot packed with all of your ingredients, just follow our instructions, use our seasoning, and perfectly cook your seafood boil on your stovetop. We provide everything you need, right down to our homeade cocktail sauce and fresh lemon wedges. So fun, so easy, and the best way to cook a seafood boil on your own!
Our unique approach really sets us apart. Our cooking method is unique as we combine boiling and steaming; we have our own secret seasoning blend; and the takeout pots make doing a seafood boil easier than you can even imagine. Our brand goes back to 2012 and is the first company to offer this service. It’s only been perfected since then, and we’re honored to be a part of the Outer Banks Boil Company family!
I also love the versatility of our seafood boils. We’ve catered events from 10 people to 300. From family reunions to weddings, rehearsal dinners to bachelorette parties. Football tailgates to corporate events. July 4th parties on the beach to community HOA events. If there’s a reason to gather, have fun, and eat great food, we’re the perfect fit!
I’m super proud that we’ve been named as the Best Caterer in St. Augustine, and we’ve also received honors for the Best Shrimp and Best Seafood, from the Community Choice Awards!
Can you share something surprising about yourself?
I’m originally from Maryland, so I know seafood and how to season it. A surprising fact is that, while Old Bay gets all the press, most Maryland crab houses use another seafood seasoning called J.O. And while our secret seasoning blend is just that, a secret, we do have it blended from J.O. Spice. So trust me when I say that it’s the real deal!
Pricing:
- $24.99 per person for our classic seafood boil
- $150 catering fee
Contact Info:
- Website: https://staugustine.outerbanksboilcompany.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/obxboilco_staugustine/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/obxboilco.staugustine
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/outer-banks-boil-company-st-augustine
- Other: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g34600-d26433127-Reviews-Outer_Banks_Boil_Company-Saint_Augustine_Beach_St_Augustine_Florida.html
