Citing Falling Tourism, Rising Costs, and Changing Dining Trends, Owner Jen Rush Says the Beloved Seafood Spot Will Serve Its Last Lobster Roll Soon
After 16 years as a beloved mainstay on Santa Monica’s Ocean Avenue, Blue Plate Oysterette will permanently close its doors on January 4, 2026, owner Jen Rush announced in a message to the restaurant’s community this week.
The decision follows what the owner described as an exceptionally difficult year for the coastal dining scene, citing a sharp drop in tourism, changing dining habits, and declining foot traffic due to retail and office vacancies in Santa Monica’s downtown core. Rising operational costs, safety concerns, and the city’s ongoing struggle with homelessness have also contributed to the challenges, she said.
“After 16 years of proudly serving the Santa Monica community, it breaks my heart to tell you we’ve made the difficult decision to close Blue Plate Oysterette,” the statement read. “…It has been an incredible run, and we will miss our sweet little neighborhood seafood spot that brought a piece of the East Coast to Ocean Avenue.”
The restaurant’s property at the corner of Ocean and Santa Monica Boulevard has long been slated for redevelopment, limiting the ability to extend or transfer the lease, according to the statement.
Blue Plate Oysterette, known for its New England–style lobster rolls, fresh oysters, and sunset views, has been a neighborhood fixture since opening in 2009. The restaurant became a gathering place for locals and tourists alike, praised for its seaside charm and its ability to bring “a little bit of the East Coast to Ocean Avenue.”
The closure marks what Jen called “a profound loss” for longtime staff, many of whom have been with the restaurant for over a decade, as well as for investors and loyal guests who supported the restaurant for years.
While Blue Plate Oysterette prepares for its final service, the ownership group will continue operating its sister restaurant, Blue Plate Taco, and wine shop Divine Vintage on Montana Avenue. Rush said she hopes to adapt to the changing economic and cultural climate that has reshaped the hospitality industry since the COVID-19 pandemic.
“The restaurant and small business world changed dramatically after COVID,” she said, noting the unsustainable pressure from third-party delivery apps and the importance of community support for local businesses. “Getting out in the community and supporting local businesses is genuinely appreciated and instrumental in keeping our community vibrant and social.”
Guests are encouraged to visit Blue Plate Oysterette in its final weeks to celebrate the restaurant’s legacy. “We hope you will join us watching the sun set over the Pacific, enjoying one more lobster roll, one more dozen oysters, one more glass of wine—and help us give Oysterette the sendoff she deserves,” Jen wrote.
Reservations can be made through OpenTable or by calling (310) 576-3474.
