The Lobster, right next to the iconic Santa Monica Pier neon sign, recently marked the 25th anniversary of its rebirth, though the seafood restaurant itself dates back more than a century.
To celebrate the milestone, The Lobster will showcase a special menu during National Seafood Month in October, according to the Santa Monica Daily Press.
Originally opened as a “seafood shack” on the Pier in 1923, The Lobster truly became a local institution in the 1950s under the leadership of Mateo Castillo, who went from dishwasher to owner of the establishment. After thriving for decades, the restaurant shut its doors in 1985, but a group of locals came together a decade later to begin reviving the location.
In 1999, The Lobster opened its modern two-story restaurant, showcasing glass walls to take advantage of Pacific Ocean views. The views are enhanced by the quality service and menu, with the food offerings now under the helm of renowned Executive Chef Govind Armstrong.
Armstrong has won several dining awards, including recognition in the 2019 Michelin Guide for California.
According to the restaurant’s website, the original shack on the pier was just 900 square feet.
The Santa Monica Pier never was part of Route 66, though it remains a popular stopping point for Route 66 enthusiasts ending or starting their journey. A re-creation of the Route 66 End of the Trail sign at the pier further cemented that.
(Image of The Lobster next to the Santa Monica Pier sign via the restaurant’s website)