Long-running Saint John seafood restaurant closes doors

A long-running seafood restaurant in Saint John, N.B., is closing its doors.

A fixture of the Saint John City Market for more than 30 years, Billy’s Seafood Company announced it is shutting its doors on Tuesday.

Owner Billy Grant, in an online statement, said the “business is simply not viable” and they must close after 32 years in business. Grant cited previous challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic, the loss of patio revenue due to the demolition of 97 King St. property and renovations at the City Market.

“I started in the Market when I was 17 years old,” Grant said in the statement. “It will always be a part of who I am.

“Welcoming you into our restaurant, and being part of the uptown community, has been an honour and a privilege. I thank everyone who has supported us over the years.”

In a Facebook post, the City Market expressed sadness over the closure.

“For years, Billy’s has been a staple of our community, known well for its fresh, high-quality seafood and for adding to the vibrancy of both the City Market and uptown,” the post reads. “It is challenging for small businesses in today’s climate, and we want to recognize the dedication, friendly service, and hard work of the team at Billy’s.

“To the owners and staff of Billy’s Seafood, we express our heartfelt appreciation. Your presence at the top of the Market will be deeply missed, and we wish you all the best in your next chapter.”

CTV News Atlantic wasn’t able to connect with Grant on Wednesday for an interview.

The Uptown Saint John Business Improvement Association says it has previously addressed concerns with city hall about road work and construction impacting foot traffic in the area. Executive director Nancy Tissington says one example – of sudden street closures – has been an issue.

“Which is where the B.I.A. has stepped in and asked the city to provide some construction mitigation plans, and we haven’t seen those,” said Tissington. “We have shown them some best practices on (construction mitigation plans) so we think it might help alleviate some of the issues when streets are closed.

“We do want to have more urban recapitalization, we do want to see the growth. But at the cost of small business, we just can’t have it.”

Saint John Mayor Donna Reardon wasn’t available for an interview on Wednesday. In a written statement, Saint John City Hall says it “remains committed” to building what it calls a sustainable business environment.

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