Closure of Santa Monica Seafood in Costa Mesa

The seafood display reflects Santa Monica Seafood's commitment to quality and community support.

News Summary

Santa Monica Seafood has closed its restaurant and fish market in Costa Mesa, California, after nearly 30 years of service. This decision reflects the difficult operational climate for restaurants, driven by rising costs and economic pressures. Despite this closure, the company’s primary fish market in Santa Monica remains open, and the company is committed to serving its community. The closure highlights broader struggles in the restaurant industry, as several chains face economic challenges and operational changes.

Costa Mesa, California – Santa Monica Seafood has officially closed its restaurant and fish market located in Costa Mesa, responding to the difficult operational climate affecting restaurants in California. This decision reflects the broader struggles within the restaurant industry in the United States, particularly in areas facing high economic pressures.

Roger O’Brien, the CEO of Santa Monica Seafood, confirmed that the Costa Mesa location had become “insignificant” for the company’s overall business strategy. The closure marks the end of nearly 30 years of service to the local community, during which the establishment garnered substantial support from residents.

Despite this closure, the company reassured customers that its primary fish market and cafe in Santa Monica will continue to operate. Additionally, Santa Monica Seafood has a broader distribution network, including facilities across the U.S. The company recently completed construction on a new distribution and processing facility in Denver, Colorado, enhancing its operational capacity.

O’Brien cited multiple factors contributing to the decision to close the Costa Mesa location, including an “unsustainable business environment.” This environment is characterized by rising commercial lease rates, escalated operational costs, and increased expenses related to labor and food. These challenges have been echoed throughout the restaurant sector, prompting significant operational changes and closures among various dining establishments.

The closure of Santa Monica Seafood’s Costa Mesa site reflects a concerning trend for the restaurant industry in California and nationwide. Recently, several well-known restaurant chains such as Red Lobster and Rubio’s Coastal Grill have faced bankruptcy, highlighting the financial pressures on the dining sector. Furthermore, Hooters is anticipated to file for bankruptcy protection this year, adding to the growing list of establishments grappling with economic hardships.

In light of these industry difficulties, Bloomin’ Brands, the parent company of several restaurant chains, announced it would be laying off around 100 corporate employees. Similarly, Starbucks has revealed plans to reduce its corporate workforce by approximately 1,100 employees, indicating a significant shift in the operational landscape for food and service businesses.

Santa Monica Seafood has expressed gratitude to the Costa Mesa community for its longstanding support, stating in a recent social media message, “This isn’t goodbye; it’s see you soon.” The company’s communication emphasized its commitment to remaining a part of the local community through its Santa Monica location.

Despite the challenges faced in 2023 and upcoming in 2024, particularly the pause on acquisition activities, Santa Monica Seafood remains vigilant for potential acquisition opportunities in the future. The closing of the Costa Mesa restaurant signifies not just a local shift but also highlights the ongoing trials within the broader food service industry as economic fluctuations continue to impact operational viability across California.

Overall, the closure of the Costa Mesa location serves as a stark reminder of the operational realities that restaurants face in California, as well as the broader effects of economic pressure on both employees and customers within the industry.