The harborside restaurant had such a long run that many customers and others met their future spouse there.
Now, the Crab Shell Restaurant, which billed itself as its area “premier waterfront dining establishment” is closing.
The Stamford restaurant had a 36-year run, serving seafood and fun, according to the notice of closing the owners posted on Facebook. Such a post is very common this year when restaurants in Connecticut close and it often give fans and customers a way to share thoughts and remembrances. There also are new restaurants opening across the state this year.
There are a variety of reasons for the closing of most eateries in the state, including retirement of the owners, changing tastes of clientele, the cost of rent, food and utilities, and in some cases, finding staff.
The “Crab Shell family” simply noted that, “after 36 wonderful years, Crab shell will be closing its door we are deeply grateful for your support and loyalty throughout all the years thank you from the bottom of our hearts.”
The restaurant had been unusual in that it offered boat slips, along with what is dubbed its “fantastic views of Stamford Harbor and Harbor Point” and indoor and outdoor dining. The eatery had an extensive menu of seafood and other favorites, as well as seasonal live music at its dockside bar, called the The Shack.
Its 11 boat slips welcomed everything from sailboats, powerboats to rowboats, the business said.
The mission was simple, the business noted “serving great food and a great experience” for more than 30 years.
“We love boaters. …we don’t discriminate,” the business quipped. (sometimes sailor and power boaters can be…at odds.)
“So next time you are on the water and craving a lobster roll or a frozen drink, you know where to find us,” was the message. “We are in Stamford Harbor’s West Branch and available on VHF Channel 9…. Can’t wait to tie you up!”
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Many of those lamenting the restaurant closure noted boating to the site over the years.
“Used to love taking the boat over from Huntington (Long Island). My go to spot going to miss you,” one customer shared on social media.
“Sad when the establishments that make your hometown a home discontinue operation. Many good memories at Crab Shell after boating,” another wrote.
And, “Oh no, it’s an integral part of Stamford waterfront,” said yet another.
Customers also wrote of good times and good music – and romance on the waterfront.
“Awww I met my husband…there on a Sunday in 99 and went back with our bridal party after our wedding reception (dresses, tux’s and all) on a Sunday in 2006,” a customer said on Facebook.
“Met my husband there May 1995! Went back with our kids in 2017,” another shared.
Many customers also noted having worked at the restaurant at one time over the years.
“I’m heartbroken as if my parents sold my childhood home. I worked there for 7 summers, 2003-2010 and made bonds with new friends…,” one shared.
“I worked at Tumbledowns when you opened this restaurant can’t believe it’s been 36 years,” wrote another.
“Oh man – lots of memories of working there off and on for years,” another post shared.
Many customers also simply noted the great food and staff and how much they would miss the place.
“Oh No! Crab Shell was the first restaurant we went to when we moved here in 2011. We enjoyed having the same server greet us,” a customer posted.
“Never a bad meal and always a good time over the years. Thank you. A Stamford institution that will be missed by all,” wrote another.
“Shocked to hear this, we would go there for happy hour on Friday nights when they first opened…Great memories, sorry to see you go!,” a customer posted.
And, “this is so sad to hear! Your seafood was amazing and hands down your venue has the best Summer waterfront vibes!! Will always remember the great memories made here. Wishing you the very best on your next journey.”
The sentiment of wishing all connected to the restaurant a positive future also was prevalent.
For example, a customer shared, “This is a sad story. I want to wish everyone there from owners, managers, waiters, bartenders, busboy and of course kitchen staff…”
“Very sad to see this. Many great memories over the years. Best wishes for the Crab Shell team,” another posted.
Another also mentioned the music, saying, I’m sorry to hear it. When the bands used to Rock the Dock, we were there every time! Many happy memories. Best wishes to you all.”
Other wished the owners well.
“Sad to see the crab shell closing thank you for all the memories. Enjoy retirement.”