A Supper Club is a traditional dining establishment that also serves as a social club. These establishments project a high-class image while maintaining affordability. Originating in the United States, supper clubs were particularly popular during the 1930s and 1940s, and are currently concentrated in the Upper Midwestern states of Wisconsin, Minnesota, Michigan, Illinois, and Iowa. They are typically located on the outskirts of towns in rural areas. Nowadays, they are primarily restaurants rather than all-night entertainment destinations. Supper clubs generally feature simple menus with somewhat limited offerings of typical American cuisine.
In the 2010s, a new interpretation of the term supper club emerged, referring to underground restaurants. These are social dining establishments that operate out of someone's home, generally bypassing local zoning and health-code regulations. They are usually advertised by word of mouth or through websites that help people find and book these restaurants. The appeal of the underground restaurant varies, but often includes the opportunity to sample new food, interact socially with strangers over food, and sometimes access to top chefs and young talent in a region.
Origin and history of the supper club
The concept of a supper club, a unique blend of a dining and social experience, originated in the United States. The first one was established in Beverly Hills, California by Lawrence Frank, a native of Milwaukee, Wisconsin. These clubs gained popularity during the 1930s and 1940s, with some even starting as prohibition roadhouses. Traditionally, supper clubs were considered a "destination" where patrons would spend the entire evening, from cocktail hour to nightclub-style entertainment after dinner. However, over time, they have evolved into more casual dining establishments rather than all-night entertainment destinations.
In the 2010s, the term "supper club" took on a new meaning, referring to underground restaurants. In the UK, supper clubs adopted the cabaret concept of the American 1930s and 1940s, aiming to bring the ambience of the underground New York jazz club to the UK entertainment scene. In Latin America, a supper club is typically an underground restaurant known as either a paladar or a restaurante de puertas cerradas (locked door restaurant). Despite being technically illegal, this type of restaurant is built into the culture, often with higher standards than many licensed establishments.
Unique characteristics of supper clubs
Size
Supper clubs are typically smaller, intimate settings designed to accommodate a limited number of guests, usually between 20 to 50 people. This is because supper clubs focus on providing a unique, personalized dining experience, often with a set menu and communal seating, which encourages social interaction among guests. On the other hand, traditional restaurants vary greatly in size, ranging from small bistros and cafes to large dining establishments that can serve hundreds of customers at a time.
Atmosphere
The atmosphere in a supper club is typically more relaxed and intimate, often with dimmed lighting and live music, creating a cozy and nostalgic ambiance. These establishments are known for their sense of community, where patrons are not just customers but part of a social experience. On the other hand, other restaurant types such as fast food, casual dining, or fine dining focus more on the food and service rather than the overall experience.
Menu
The menu at a supper club is typically more limited and focuses on traditional American fare. It often includes a set course meal, featuring items like prime rib, fish fry, relish trays, and ice cream drinks, which are not commonly found in other restaurants. On the other hand, other restaurant types such as casual dining, fine dining, or ethnic restaurants have a more extensive and diverse menu.
Service
Supper clubs offer a unique, intimate dining experience. They are typically membership-based, providing a sense of exclusivity. The service is personalized, often with the chef interacting directly with guests, explaining the menu and the inspiration behind each dish. The dining experience is leisurely paced, encouraging guests to socialize and enjoy the evening. The menu is usually fixed, with a focus on a multi-course meal, paired with cocktails or wine.
Alcohol
Supper clubs typically offer a set menu and a “relaxation” period before dinner where patrons can enjoy a cocktail or two, often in a separate bar or lounge area. This pre-dinner cocktail hour is a signature feature of supper clubs, setting them apart from other restaurants. Most other restaurant types, such as casual dining, fast food, or fine dining establishments, do not typically have a dedicated pre-dining cocktail hour.
What items are typically on a supper club’s menu?
Appetizers
The appetizers at a supper club often include Shrimp Cocktail ($11.55 ~ $19.90), Stuffed Mushrooms ($9.92 ~ $16.36), Cheese Curds ($5.85 ~ $12.13), and Bruschetta ($7.88 ~ $19.93). Another popular appetizer is Spinach and Artichoke Dip, which typically costs between $10.00 and $15.28.
Soups
The soup selection at a supper club usually includes Clam Chowder ($5.05 ~ $10.18), French Onion Soup ($5.49 ~ $9.99), Chicken Noodle Soup ($4.00 ~ $8.00), and Tomato Bisque ($5.15 ~ $8.63).
Salads
Salad options at a supper club often include Caesar Salad ($6.43 ~ $16.15), House Salad ($4.85 ~ $11.38), Cobb Salad ($9.86 ~ $18.66), and Spinach Salad ($8.05 ~ $15.40).
Main Courses
The main courses at a supper club typically feature Prime Rib ($16.02 ~ $41.36), Grilled Salmon ($16.13 ~ $28.79), Chicken Marsala ($15.96 ~ $75.60), Pork Chops ($10.40 ~ $21.01), and Lobster Tail ($18.55 ~ $48.73).
Sides
Side dishes often include Mashed Potatoes ($2.96 ~ $6.88), Steamed Vegetables ($3.99 ~ $11.00), Baked Potato ($2.98 ~ $6.00), Rice Pilaf ($3.60 ~ $6.87), and Macaroni and Cheese ($3.69 ~ $10.00).
Desserts
Dessert options at a supper club usually include Cheesecake ($5.77 ~ $9.44), Chocolate Mousse ($4.99 ~ $10.02), Apple Pie ($4.33 ~ $10.50), Creme Brulee ($5.70 ~ $11.00), and Tiramisu ($5.21 ~ $10.60).
Beverages
Beverage options typically include Coffee ($2.00 ~ $3.80), Tea ($1.98 ~ $4.73), Soft Drinks ($2.49 ~ $4.25), Wine ($5.00 ~ $18.82), and Beer ($4.00 ~ $8.03).
Are supper clubs popular for breakfast, lunch, and dinner?
Supper clubs are traditionally known for their evening dining experiences, hence the term "supper" in their name. They typically open late in the afternoon and serve dinner into the late evening. The concept of a supper club originated in the mid-20th century and was popular for its combination of fine dining, entertainment, and socializing. While some modern supper clubs may offer brunch or lunch services, it's not the norm. The focus remains on providing a unique dinner experience, often with live music or performances. Therefore, supper clubs are not typically popular or known for breakfast and lunch.
Are supper clubs popular for food delivery?
The popularity of supper clubs for food delivery can vary greatly depending on the region and the specific supper club in question. Traditionally, supper clubs are known for their in-person dining experiences, featuring multi-course meals, live entertainment, and a social atmosphere. These elements are typically not translatable to a delivery format. However, with the rise of food delivery apps and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, some supper clubs have adapted to offer delivery services. This allows them to reach a wider audience and cater to customers who prefer to dine at home. The success and popularity of these services can depend on several factors, including the quality of the food, the efficiency of the delivery, and the ability to recreate some of the unique supper club experience at home.
What are the most popular supper club chains?
Some of the most notable supper clubs include the 500 Club in Atlantic City, Babette's Supper Club also in Atlantic City, The Bagdad Supper Club in Texas, The Catalina Jazz Club in Los Angeles, and The Chez Ami in Buffalo, New York. In recent years, Charlie's Burgers, a supper club chain that originated in Toronto, Ontario, Canada in 2009, has gained popularity. It was ranked by Food and Wine Magazine as one of the top three "word of mouth" supper clubs in 2010. Each dinner event is hosted by a different high-profile chef and is held in a different location, with the location being secret until the last minute. Charlie's Burgers has collaborated with chefs recognized by The World's 50 Best Restaurants, The Michelin Guide, and Relais & Chateaux, in Canada, England, and France.
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