ADVERTISEMENT

Old Bay Closing

Tango Two

Moderator
Moderator
Aug 21, 2001
51,644
34,759
113
North Brunswick, New Jersey
Farewell, and what a long strange trip it’s been.

It started with a cynical statement to one of my best high school buddies, Anthony Ventre, in the summer of 1985. “Let’s go to downtown New Brunswick and get some good seafood.” He immediately knew that there was no such restaurant there serving seafood as the redevelopment effort in the downtown was in its infancy. We did extensive research into making such a restaurant happen. The concept evolved into a New Orleans seafood restaurant as we fell in love with the cuisine and musical culture of that city. Along the way Robert Steiger joined us as an investment partner and on Thursday May 28, 1987 we opened the doors to The Old Bay Restaurant. The rest as they say, is history.

But now is the time to say goodbye. After over thirty years we will be closing our doors for the last time in late December. I will always be thankful for the countless patrons that frequented our premises. And give heartfelt thanks to all the employees that have given their hard labor and dedication into making The Old Bay the great success it has been over the years. Many of our guests and employees have become some of my closest friends.

In our final weeks here, we would like to see you one last time for your favorite dish, an awarding winning craft beer, or one of our famous cocktails. And to say goodbye. As we wind down operations please keep an eye out for mail or social media announcements as we post some special events to celebrate our time here.

In closing I want thank again everyone that has passed through our doors. I have been blessed to get to know many of you.

With much gratitude.

Anthony Tola


 
Last edited:
Sad to hear this. I wonder what the reason is for closing?

Enjoyed many visits to the Old Bay over the years, mostly in the mid to late 90s through the mid 00s. Haven't been in about 3-4 years so may try to find an opportunity when I'm up in NJ sometime in December to stop through one last time.
 
I graduated in 1985 and appreciate all that Old Bay added to the New Brunswick restaurant and music scene. You will be missed.
 
  • Like
Reactions: ScarletteK80
Pretty suee the owner though it was just time to move on. Unfortunately a blackthorn will be opening there. Been to the other one and it is just mehh
 
Ah that sucks, have many good memories there. Will have to find an excuse to go back before it closes, maybe go after a basketball game.
 
Really sucks, has been a fixture in NB. And was a unique spot. Another "Irish" pub, do we really need another chain that serves mediocre hamburgers and fries and Guinness?
 
Always one of my favorite, both the food, and music. Love New Orleans as well. Where will I get my Cajun Popcorn now?
 
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT