Topsail Steamer: From Local Favorite to National Success After Shark Tank Deal
Author: DiscoverTopsailIsland.com
Surf City, NC — November 14, 2024
A beloved local business in the greater Topsail Island and Surf City area is now making waves nationwide. Topsail Steamer, known for its fresh, delicious seafood boils, has been gaining attention not just for its mouthwatering meals but also for its exciting new partnership with two Shark Tank investors.
Recently featured on ABC’s hit show Shark Tank, Topsail Steamer impressed the investors with their unique business model, offering customers a “bring-the-boil-to-you” experience with all the ingredients needed to create a classic Low Country boil at home. The company’s success story took a major leap forward when they made a deal with Shark Tank investors Todd Graves and Barbara Corcoran, who saw big potential in the business’s national expansion.
A Local Staple with Big Ambitions
Founded in 2015 by husband-and-wife duo David and Michelle Sasser, Topsail Steamer began with a simple but brilliant idea: provide customers with everything they need to enjoy an authentic seafood boil experience, without the hassle. The company offers a variety of ready-to-cook “steamer bags” filled with fresh seafood like shrimp, crab, sausage, corn, and potatoes—along with the seasonings and instructions to steam it all up. The DIY kits quickly became a hit with locals who loved the convenience and the taste of an at-home seafood boil.
“We wanted to create an experience, not just a meal,” said David Sasser, co-owner of Topsail Steamer. “Our customers love the fun of gathering with friends and family, cooking together, and enjoying a great meal that feels like a celebration.”
As the business grew, so did its customer base. What started as a small operation catering to local families and tourists quickly turned into a larger venture with multiple locations. Now, with the backing of Shark Tank investors, Topsail Steamer is poised for national expansion.
The Shark Tank Deal: Fueling National Growth
On the October 28th episode of Shark Tank, Topsail Steamer’s pitch caught the attention of Todd Graves and Barbara Corcoran, who were impressed by the couple’s passion, the product’s popularity, and the business’s potential. After some back-and-forth negotiations, the Sassers closed a deal with the two investors, who are providing financial backing and strategic advice to help scale the business nationwide.
With the deal in place, Topsail Steamer now has the resources to expand into new markets and offer their signature seafood boils in cities across the United States. The partnership with Todd Graves and Barbara Corcoran marks a major turning point for the business, elevating their profile and opening doors to new opportunities.
“We’re beyond excited about this new chapter,” said Michelle Sasser, co-owner of Topsail Steamer. “The opportunity to work with Todd and Barbara will allow us to bring the joy of our seafood boils to even more families. We are so grateful for the support from our local community, and now we can’t wait to take it to the next level.”
Unparalleled Quality of Seafood and Steamer Bags
What truly sets Topsail Steamer apart is the unmatched quality of the fresh seafood and cooking materials included in every steamer bag. Each bag is carefully packed with only the finest, freshest ingredients, sourced from trusted suppliers who share the company’s commitment to excellence. Whether it’s the sweet, plump shrimp, tender crab legs, or flavorful sausage, every item in the bag is selected for quality and taste, ensuring a truly exceptional dining experience.
The quality of the seafood is only matched by the simplicity and ease of the cooking process. Topsail Steamer’s steamer bags take the hassle out of cooking a seafood boil. Each bag is pre-seasoned with a perfect blend of spices, so all you have to do is pop the bag in a steamer, follow the simple instructions, and wait for the delicious results. The result? A mouthwatering meal that’s bursting with flavor and made with minimal effort. It’s the perfect solution for anyone who wants to enjoy an authentic seafood feast without spending hours in the kitchen.
“People are amazed at how easy it is,” said David Sasser. “You get all the ingredients and seasoning, and it’s ready to go. There’s no mess, no fuss, just great food. It’s the perfect way to enjoy a Low Country boil, right at home.”
From the Steamer to Your Table
Topsail Steamer’s success isn’t just about a product—it’s about an experience. The company offers customers more than just seafood; they provide a fun and interactive dining experience that brings people together. The signature “Steamer Bags” are designed for convenience and enjoyment, making it easy for families to create their own seafood boil at home, complete with all the ingredients and seasoning needed for a mouthwatering feast.
In addition to its popular seafood boils, Topsail Steamer also offers a range of other menu items, from crab cakes to shrimp skewers, and they even sell their signature seasoning blends for customers who want to recreate the experience at home. As the company grows, so too does their menu, with new and exciting options being added regularly.
Currently, Topsail Steamer operates multiple locations across North Carolina, including its flagship in Surf City, and is now expanding into new markets. Thanks to the Shark Tank deal, they are set to open additional locations in major cities across the country in the coming months.
The Topsail Steamer Difference
What sets Topsail Steamer apart from other seafood providers is the company’s commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. The seafood is always fresh, and the “Steamer Bags” are packed with premium ingredients sourced from local suppliers. Customers rave not only about the taste but about the convenience of having everything they need for a boil delivered right to their doorstep.
Topsail Steamer has become a community favorite, not just in the Surf City and Topsail Island area, but in cities all over the country. The company is known for its excellent customer service and dedication to providing an unforgettable experience.
“We’re passionate about what we do,” said David Sasser. “Every bag we prepare, every meal we create—it’s all about giving people a reason to celebrate with the ones they love. That’s what keeps us motivated every day.”
Ready to Steam Ahead
With the Shark Tank deal in place and a growing network of locations, Topsail Steamer is well-positioned for even greater success. The company's expansion plans include new brick-and-mortar locations as well as the possibility of offering its famous seafood boils through additional delivery and takeout services.
For now, though, locals and tourists alike in Topsail Island and Surf City can continue to enjoy their favorite seafood boil kits at the original location. As the company continues to grow, you can expect to see Topsail Steamer in more cities, bringing the joy of seafood boils to tables across the United States.
For more information, including how to order your own steamer bag or find a location near you, visit www.topsailsteamer.com.
About Topsail Steamer
Founded by David and Michelle Sasser in 2015, Topsail Steamer has quickly become a favorite destination for locals and tourists in the greater Topsail Island and Surf City areas. The company offers a variety of ready-to-cook seafood boil kits, providing customers with all the ingredients and seasoning needed for a classic Low Country boil experience. Topsail Steamer also offers an expanded menu of other seafood items and seasoning blends. After its recent appearance on Shark Tank, Topsail Steamer is set to expand nationwide, bringing their unique dining experience to new markets across the United States.