It's Official: Lobster Shack Leaving Branford for East Haven

If you want an award winning lobster roll from the Lobster Shack come this May then you'll have to travel to East Haven.

The owners of the Lobster Shack, Nick and and Arlene Crismale, confirmed in an email what Patch first reported on Monday - that they'll be reopening their famed restaurant at the iconic Beachhead Restaurant on the East Haven shoreline.

And, they'll be shutting down the Branford operation at a marina located directly across from the Stony Creek Brewery.

East Haven Mayor Joseph Maturo was thrilled that the restaurant will be opening in East Haven.

"The Town Council approved a sale for the tax lien (on the Beachhead property) which gives him (Nick Crismale) the ability to close on the lot. The lien was sold at face value. The lien was $8,900 which the town will receive.

We are happy about this. Great for the shore," said Maturo.

The Beachhead has been shutdown a number of times in recent times , including from the floodwaters Tropical Storm Irene in 2011 and and then a year later from Hurricane Sandy.

Both times co-owners Barbara Bucci and Cindy Fucci reopened the restaurant after extensive renovations and repairs. But it has been closed for well over a year since its last reopening.

The restaurant first opened in 1942. It was famed, in its heyday, for its fried seafood dishes - along with its deck overlooking the nearby Long Island Sound.

The Lobster Shack lobster rolls are made with freshly picked tail and claw meat, real butter,and a sprinkle of lemon juice on a toasted sub roll.

On summer days in Branford, the restaurant is jammed with lobster roll loving fans enjoying the delicious sandwiches.