Making waves: New England Aquarium selects Sodexo Live! as new hospitality partner in multi-year agreement

BOSTON, MASS. (Jan. 18, 2024) – Sodexo Live!, the hospitality partner to the world’s most iconic venues, today announced a new multi-year agreement with the New England Aquarium that will usher in new and improved dining options for Aquarium guests, the addition of new local suppliers from Boston and greater New England, and ambitious plans for improved dining spaces.

Whether visitors are looking for a full meal or a quick bite, the cuisine at the Aquarium is elevated in a fresh, exciting way that features sustainably sourced ingredients. New technology solutions for ordering have modernized and streamlined the speed of service.

• The café now features diverse choices, including healthy dishes as well as favorites from the grill, all aimed at an inviting and environmentally-friendly dining atmosphere, along with visitor education around sustainable initiatives. The café features compostable plates, cups, and utensils, and particular attention is paid to offering responsibly-sourced seafood, with guidance from experts in the Anderson Cabot Center for Ocean Life at the New England Aquarium.
• Elevated aesthetics and décor will make the Aquarium a more sought-after destination for special events and functions, with a future redesign that will update the café.
• The outdoor Central Wharf Plaza eating space will be transformed later this year in order to best maximize the stunning views of Boston Harbor and create a happy hour destination amidst the vibrant local social scene. The outdoor snack shack will feature a new concept, as well.
• The theater experience has already been enhanced with a variety of delicious sweets, fresh popcorn, and more. This will create a more enjoyable experience for guests.

Details around retail concepts, local suppliers, and specific menu items at the New England Aquarium will be unveiled in a separate announcement.

“We set out to find a partner who would capture the local flavor of Boston for the benefit of Aquarium guests, while also elevating and increasing capacity for special events,” said Vikki N. Spruill, President and CEO of the New England Aquarium. “Sodexo Live!’s clear understanding of our conservation mission and shared commitment to sustainability resonated with us, and we look forward to a dynamic partnership.”

“Boston is such a special place, and the New England Aquarium is such a special destination. We look forward to crafting unique and immersive dining experiences that attract and satisfy families, foodies, and guests with wide-ranging palates and dietary needs,” said Belinda Oakley, CEO, Sodexo Live! North America. “We’re grateful for the trust shown in us and are eager to contribute to the legacy of excellence that defines the Aquarium.”

The New England Aquarium joins a growing portfolio of Sodexo Live! venues in the greater Boston area, including Franklin Park Zoo and Stone Zoo, the Orpheum Theatre, Shubert Theatre, Wang Theater, Boston Symphony Orchestra, Citizens Bank Opera House, Harvard Stadium and Bright Arena, and Plimoth Patuxet Museums. The company also partners with other leading zoos and aquariums across North America, including the Indianapolis Zoo, Shedd Aquarium, and more.

**ADDITIONAL FOOD IMAGES AVAILABLE HERE WITH CREDIT TO NEW ENGLAND AQUARIUM

MEDIA CONTACT: Pam Bechtold Snyder, psnyder@neaq.org; 617-686-5068