A crepe bar is a restaurant or buffet station that specializes in making crepes to order. Typically, diners will stand at the crepe preparation station and request a crepe from those suggested on the proprietor’s menu or, in some cases, create their own crepe recipe from the ingredients on offer. While many crepe bars are permanent establishments or a part of a permanent establishment, some catering companies offer their clients the option of setting up this type of bar in an event space as part of the menu offered to guests.
Crepes are very thin pancakes that are prepared on a hot skillet or specially designed pan. After the pancake is cooked, it is wrapped around one or more fillings. Sweet crepes may be stuffed with fruits, chocolate, and custards, while a savory crepe is filled with meats, cheeses, and vegetables. A crepe may be served with a fork and knife or may be wrapped in a paper cone, sometimes known as a toot, and consumed like a sandwich.
As crepes can be prepared quickly and are easily customizable, some food-service businesses have developed the crepe bar, which allows diners to observe their crepe being prepared. Like pasta or omelet bars, which are often featured at buffets, the ability to order a crepe and see it prepared provides a significant amount of interaction between the diners and the cooks. Many diners enjoy watching the preparation of their food, making a crepe bar an attraction or event in and of itself.
Individuals who are interested in trying a crepe bar can usually start by researching restaurants that make crepes in their area. Some of these restaurants have a crepe bar in their establishment or may offer a crepe bar as an option for catering clients. Buffet restaurants may also include a crepe bar as one of their normal serving stations or may offer one on special occasions, such as a Sunday brunch or holiday buffet. Otherwise, hotels and other catering services may make a crepe bar available upon request. Those who need to book catering for a special event should ask the caterer if it is able to make crepes to order.