Chef Michael Cimarusti is closing his beloved seafood restaurant, Connie & Ted’s. He opened it in 2013 to give Los Angeles a taste of New England seafood at more affordable prices. The restaurant quickly became known for its fried clams and fresh lobster rolls, often filled with never-frozen lobster.
However, after facing ongoing challenges, Connie & Ted’s will shutter on July 1. Cimarusti and business partner, Crisi Echiverri, pointed to rising inflation and skyrocketing labor costs in West Hollywood. Current wages for non-hotel workers in that area hit $20.25 per hour, among the highest in the nation. The most significant factor leading to the closure was a drop in sales. The pandemic, along with entertainment strikes and subsequent drops in foot traffic, significantly impacted their business.
“It was important for me to recreate that authentic New England experience here,” Cimarusti shared. “For a while, it felt like the city appreciated that.”
Cimarusti crafted a menu focusing on quality ingredients, with everything made from scratch—including breadcrumbs and clam cakes passed down from his grandmother. His lobster rolls were a standout, offering a taste of fresh lobster imported from Massachusetts.
Despite its success, the restaurant struggled to keep up with rising costs. Just a few years back, lobsters could be purchased at around $5 per pound, making it possible to sell a delicious lobster roll for about $25. Now, the same lobsters fetch over $15 per pound, leading to selling prices that often scare off customers.
Dining habits have also shifted. Echiverri explained that many people now prefer to order in from their favorite restaurants rather than dine out.
Nationally, many mid-range restaurants are facing similar challenges. According to a recent report, nearly 10% of restaurants across the U.S. have closed permanently due to the impacts of COVID-19 and ongoing economic pressures. L.A.’s dining scene has lost notable names this year alone, indicating a troubling trend.
Cimarusti never expected Connie & Ted’s to become such a staple. On some nights, the restaurant was bustling with regulars and newcomers eager to say goodbye. Appreciation from patrons has surged since the announcement of the closure, bringing in a rush of customers hoping to experience the restaurant one last time.
Cimarusti and Echiverri remain grateful and hope this wave continues until the closure date. They plan a special farewell event—One Last Cast—where they’ll offer some cherished dishes, ensuring they ‘finish strong.’
You can read more about the realities facing the restaurant industry today in reports from sources like the National Restaurant Association.
