JACKSONVILLE BEACH, Fla. – Joe’s Crab Shack on Beach Boulevard will close its doors for the final time Saturday at 10 p.m., and the location will be converted into a Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.
The closure was confirmed this month by the seafood chain’s CEO after a Jan. 9 Facebook post sparked speculation about the future of the longtime beachfront restaurant.
Joe’s Crab Shack COO Terry Turney said in a statement:
“We are grateful to our dedicated Joe’s Crab Shack team members, and will be working to place employees at nearby restaurants while we transition the location to a Bubba Gump Shrimp Co,” Turney said.
Both brands are owned by Landry’s Inc., a factor company officials said helped shape the decision to convert the property.
The chain’s website lists 14 other active Joe’s Crab Shack restaurants. The nearest Joe’s Crab Shack after the Beach Boulevard closure will be in Daytona Beach, nearly 90 miles away.
Some customers arriving this week appeared unaware that the restaurant would close and were surprised to learn tonight is their last chance to visit the longtime local spot.