BAM Foods Catering keeps the long-standing tradition of creek dinners alive in Leiper’s Fork by honoring the past with its scenic atmosphere and unique cuisine. The rich heritage of creek dinners is highlighted with the beauty of Leiper’s Fork, creating a dinner experience that is both nostalgic and exceptional.
BAM is the family-owned business consisting of husband-and-wife team, Annie and Chef Braiden Mallon. The couple began their journey in 2020 with a home meal delivery service, driven by a desire to support their six children. That initial venture quickly gained traction, as they began serving friends and clients in the Leiper’s Fork community who eagerly embraced their delicious offerings. This natural progression allowed them to bring their unique, high-quality meals to a wider audience, while they honored the traditions and flavors of contemporary Southern cuisine.
Eventually they were inspired to create a pop-up dinner party that sold out quickly at the Leiper’s Fork Inn. That first dinner was a huge success that led to more dinners, including the introduction of creek dinners. Their first creek dinner was for The Harpeth Conservancy. Since then, their creek dinners have grown and continue to add clientele every year.
Creek dinners are a long standing Leiper’s Fork tradition that dates back to the 1800s. The community would gather for potluck-style dinners in the creek with their own chairs and tables.
Annie says, “The Leiper's Fork community is important to us and it's changing a lot. We like to hold onto those little pieces of the things that matter to us as far as the tradition within the community.”
Their commitment to preserving creek dinner traditions is evident in every aspect of their service. Clients enjoy a four-course meal in the creek behind the 1900s school house on Leiper’s Creek Road.
Chef Braiden prepares all of the food onsite while Annie tends to their decor. Their team plates and serves all four courses in the water preceded by a social hour that allows for a communal ambience. The staff has been a part of the dinners since the beginning, which was stemmed by their own ambitions to work for fun.
Annie described her joy for producing these dinners as she is surrounded by a unique place with its own history. They have seen a variety of clientele, some who even travel just to enjoy these creek dinners. “We love the hospitality aspect of it,” she says.
The Mallons set up one long table, where some guests who have never met are joined for dinner. This creates an open communal atmosphere for others to join together in laughter, conversation, and fun. Some of their clients have even met at one of their dinners and come back together as a group to the next. Annie has joyfully witnessed memories being made for her as well as her clients.
“Dining in a creek is not normal, and the food that my husband does is so over the top," she says.. "And it is a very elevated but approachable experience that we are so proud to put on. There is nothing else like it.”
When they are not hosting or catering, Annie and Braiden make the most of spending time with their kids.
BAM Foods Catering combines the warmth and personal touch of their home-based beginnings with the scope of a full-service catering operation. Their dedication to maintaining a scenic and culturally rich dining experience has made them beloved in Leiper’s Fork, where they celebrate the rich heritage of creek dinners with both residents and visitors. Through their ongoing success, Annie and Chef Braiden Mallon have not only built a thriving business but also created a legacy for their family and community. @bamfoods_catering