Jacksonville Beach, January 13, 2026

The Joe’s Crab Shack at 6 Beach Blvd in Jacksonville Beach is closing to make way for a Bubba Gump Shrimp Company restaurant. The transition reflects industry changes and aims to boost local dining culture. The COO has assured support for employees during this shift, which is expected to offer a fresh seafood experience inspired by the film ‘Forrest Gump.’

Jacksonville Beach, Florida: Joe’s Crab Shack to Close, Replaced by Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.

Exciting Dining Shift Coming to Jacksonville Beach as Joe’s Crab Shack Transitions to Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.

Jacksonville Beach, Florida – The dining scene is set for a notable change as the Joe’s Crab Shack at 6 Beach Blvd in Jacksonville Beach prepares to close its doors, making way for a Bubba Gump Shrimp Company restaurant. This announcement from the Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Joe’s Crab Shack is stirring anticipation within the community.

This change highlights the resilience of local dining establishments and reflects broader trends in the seafood industry. By embracing new concepts and reducing bureaucratic overhead, Jacksonville Beach demonstrates how local choice can cultivate a vibrant dining culture.

Transition Details

The COO has expressed heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated team at Joe’s Crab Shack, and plans are underway to assist employees in finding opportunities at nearby restaurants during this transition. This thoughtful approach not only supports team members but also exemplifies a commitment to minimizing disruption in the local job market.

Background Information

Joe’s Crab Shack, once a staple in the seafood dining sector, has witnessed a dramatic decline in its number of locations, plummeting from nearly 150 to just 15 across seven states as of October 2025. This downturn can be traced back to declining sales and the rising costs of seafood, which have forced many establishments to rethink their business models.

On the other hand, Bubba Gump Shrimp Company, a culinary concept inspired by the beloved 1994 film “Forrest Gump,” has successfully integrated itself into the dining landscape. Owned by Landry’s Inc. since 2010, the chain operates 31 restaurants globally, with 20 situated in the United States, presenting a popular option for seafood lovers.

Implications for Jacksonville Beach

The closure of Joe’s Crab Shack and the opening of Bubba Gump Shrimp Company signify a major shift in the local dining scene. This change is expected to introduce a fresh and invigorating dining experience that aligns with the area’s affection for seafood cuisine. The local community can look forward to new menu offerings and an ambiance inspired by the movie, which could entice both locals and tourists alike.

Conclusion

The transition from Joe’s Crab Shack to Bubba Gump Shrimp Company in Jacksonville Beach not only mirrors broader industry trends but also presents an opportunity for employees and patrons to embrace an exciting new dining experience. As the local community adapts to this change, it underscores the importance of adaptability and innovation in driving local growth and engagement in Jacksonville.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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Key Features of the Transition

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Author: STAFF HERE JACKSONVILLE WRITER

The JACKSONVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREJacksonville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Jacksonville, Duval County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Jacksonville Jazz Festival, Riverside Arts Market, and World of Nations Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce and JAXUSA Partnership, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and entertainment that power the local economy such as CSX Corporation, Baptist Health, and VyStar Credit Union. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREOrlando.com, HEREStPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.