Lovers of lobster dishes and seaside dining don’t have to wait much longer to enjoy both.
The Lobster Shack, which has been closed because of its move from Branford to a new location in East Haven, is expected to reopen in August.
Nick Crismale, who owns the business with his wife Arlene, said this week their current target date for reopening is Aug. 1.
Early this week, the Cosey Beach Avenue building was filled with workers and the sounds of hammering and power tools. Previously, the owners had hoped to be open by late spring, but that didn’t come to fruition.
“It was a lot more work than we anticipated, but we want it to be done right,” Crismale said. “We’ve had a great response from the neighborhood, including people who want to come once we open. I am humbled by the response from patrons.”
The Lobster Shack had been in Branford for about 11 years, but had to move after the Crismales couldn’t reach a lease agreement with their landlord. Their restaurant is making its new home at 3 Cosey Beach Ave., East Haven, in a building which was formerly the Beachhead restaurant.
“The Beachhead had a great reputation as a shoreline restaurant, and we hope to continue that service as the Lobster Shack,” Crismale said.
Crismale has worked as a lobsterman for four decades. He said he always dreamed of opening a small seasonal food stand where people could enjoy eating what he caught while enjoying water views. The couple’s business started as a small stand with outdoor seating.
The business has attracted thousands over the years who have come to enjoy their culinary offerings, such as lobster rolls, lobster grilled cheese and clam chowder. Connecticut Magazine has included their lobster roll on its list of the 10 best in the state.
According to Crismale, they have encountered building problems at their new location which needed substantial repairs, including issues with the sewer system.
“The town has been exceptionally helpful to get us open, including the building department, fire department and zoning officials,” Crismale said.
The Lobster Shack has typically been open only in the warmer months. According to Crismale, the new location will allow them to extend their season and stay open longer during the year. The renovations included removing opaque walls to install glass slider doors, to improve the view of the water. Customers will be able to enjoy both indoor and outdoor seating.
They plan to rent the place out for showers and parties during the colder months.
“We are happy with the way it is turning out,” Crismale said. “We wanted to have a coastal theme and to bring the outside in.”
Check the restaurant’s web site at https://www.lobstershackct.com for updates.
Contact Michelle Tuccitto Sullo at msullo@newhavenbiz.com