The Bakemaster presides over the clambake. The Rhode Island
clambake is a unique event which traces its origin back to the
Indians. Its secret was passed on to an early settler, who became
the first Rhode Island Bakemaster. Since then the method has
been handed down from generation to generation.
Company owner T.R. McGrath is a third generation bakemaster who has followed in the footsteps of his father, Tom, and grandfather (pictured in photo below). Tom McGrath founded McGrath Clambakes, Inc. (then known as Tom McGrath Clambakes) in 1969.
twenty years and took over the role of 'bakemaster'
in the late eighties. He holds a Bachelor of Science
Degree in Civil Engineering from Virginia
Polytechnic Institute and State University.
After purchasing the company in 1999, T.R.’s first
assignment was the preparation of a traditional old
fashioned clambake for 1,000 culinary professional
attending the International Association of Culinary
Professionals Annual Convention in Providence in
March of 2000. Special guest and master chef Julia
Child (photo at left) was in attendance and came to
hear how T.R. prepared the bake.
T.R. has grown the business significantly in the
past few years catering a broad range of events
which include traditional catering fare and high end
weddings and corporate events. Under T.R.’s tenure
McGrath Clambakes, Inc. has been featured on the
Food Network’s Food Nation with Bobby Flay and
the Discovery Channel’s Home Matters.
T.R. is a member of several associations, including:
International Special Events Society
International Caterers Association
Newport County Chamber of Commerce
Newport Convention & Visitor's Bureau
Newport Lodging Restaurant and Tourism Association
Rhode Island Hospitality & Tourism Association