The Crab Cooker is closing its Tustin store after a three-decade run. The closure is due to a planned redevelopment on the property. The news of the closure prompted patrons to share farewell messages with the restaurant.
The Crab Cooker to End Its 33-Year Run in Tustin
The Crab Cooker has announced that it will be closing its Tustin location. The restaurant shared on social media that its final day of service will be May 31, 2026. The closure will mark the end of a 33-year journey in the neighborhood.
According to the announcement, the closure follows the expiration of its lease. The property has been sold to new owners. The new owners plan to redevelop the property into a mixed-use property.
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A Legacy That Lives On
The Crab Cooker originally started on Newport Boulevard in 1951. Since then, it has expanded and become a popular choice among diners. The Newport location also celebrated its landmark 75th anniversary this year.
While the 33-year journey of the brand’s Tustin restaurant ends, its name still spreads far and wide. The restaurant brand will continue serving its family-friendly seafood menu at its other location.
Community’s Reaction to the Closure
The departure of The Crab Cooker from Tustin marks the end of an era for diners in the area. The restaurant became a longtime staple for local diners in Tustin. The announcement drew an outpouring of reactions on social media from longtime customers.
One Instagram user wrote, “I’m so sad to read this. When I lived in California, this was one of the places I frequented. And after moving away, when I visited my parents, we would go to this location. The best to all the employees. The Crab Cooker will always be a place of fond memories for me.”
Another user wrote, “Our family has loved our Tustin Crab Cooker since the 90s. We are so sad to see it go. Excellent food, good vibes, and precious memories.”
As the brand prepares for its Tustin closure, it leaves behind a trail of shared meals, family traditions, and lasting memories. For longtime customers, the closure marks the end of a familiar neighborhood dining spot.
