Connie & Ted’s, the popular seafood shack on Santa Monica Boulevard in West Hollywood, will close on July 1 after 13 years in business. Owners say the decision comes after years of mounting economic pressure on the hospitality industry, and regulars and staff have already begun sharing memories as the restaurant heads into its final weeks.
Owners Cite Economic Pressures
As reported by Eater Los Angeles, chef Michael Cimarusti and partners Donato Poto and Crisi Echiverri shared the news on Instagram on May 13 and set the final service date for July 1, 2026. In a statement quoted by Eater, the owners said they “held on as long as we could,” pointing to pandemic-era limited capacity along with rising labor and goods costs as key factors. The team said it was “incredibly proud of what Connie & Ted’s has been” and thanked diners for their loyalty over the years.
The Menu And The Room
Connie & Ted’s became known for East Coast staples, including Maine lobster rolls, Rhode Island-style crab cakes, fried clam baskets and an expansive raw bar, along with its wave-shaped roof and friendly counter-service vibe. The restaurant's official site lists menus, hours and contact information for the West Hollywood location; see Connie & Ted’s for details.
Roots And Reputation
Providence chef Michael Cimarusti opened Connie & Ted’s in 2013 with partners Donato Poto and Crisi Echiverri as a more casual outpost of his seafood work, and a 2013 Los Angeles Times review praised its Googie-inspired exterior and straightforward East Coast dishes. Over the years it built a steady following among locals and visiting diners, and the restaurant has been a fixture on the Santa Monica Boulevard dining strip.
How This Fits
The closure follows a wave of recent restaurant exits in West Hollywood, a trend reported by Eater Los Angeles. Restaurateurs and writers have pointed to pandemic aftereffects and rising operating costs as recurring reasons behind several recent shutdowns.
With a final service date more than a month away, the owners have thanked guests for their loyalty and reflected on what the restaurant has meant to the community. Fans looking for updates on hours or any special final events should consult the restaurant's official site or its social channels.
