Legendary New England eatery shuts down after 80 years of service

A Legacy of Flavor and Community

A family-run restaurant in Massachusetts has closed its doors after nearly eight decades of serving the community, marking the end of an era. Hawthorne by the Sea, along with its adjoining Anthony's Pier 4 Cafe, officially shut down this week after operating for 78 years at the Boston harbor. The closure has left many locals heartbroken, as the restaurants were more than just places to eat—they were part of the town’s history.

Hawthorne by the Sea was located in Swampscott, a coastal town 12 miles north of Boston. The restaurants served classic Northeastern dishes such as lobster, crab cakes, and scallops, which became staples for both locals and visitors. The owners, Anthony Jr., Michael, and Paul Athanas, expressed their gratitude to the community for supporting the businesses over the years.

The brothers described their mixed emotions about closing the business, which they inherited from their father, Anthony Athanas. An Albanian immigrant and restauranteur, he founded Hawthorne by the Sea in 1946. The family emphasized that their father was a pioneer in the restaurant industry and ahead of his time in many ways.

Anthony's Pier 4, added to the property in 1963, became famous for hosting notable figures such as presidents, religious leaders, athletes, actors, and writers. Among the famous patrons were Elizabeth Taylor, Frank Sinatra, and Jimmy Carter. However, it was the loyal local community that felt the most impact from the closure.

Many regulars shared their memories of the restaurant, highlighting how it played a role in significant life events. One local recalled visiting the restaurant since the 1950s, noting how it was a place for family gatherings and outings. Another praised the restaurant’s legacy of excellence in food, service, and hospitality.

Another person shared a touching story about how their father worked at the restaurant during summer breaks from college and later received a job offer and visa sponsorship from Anthony Athanas. This allowed the family to become U.S. citizens. The stories reflect the deep connection between the restaurant and the community.

A Transition for the Town

The brothers sold the property three years ago to the town of Swampscott, calling it the "largest open space acquisition in half a century." The formal closure had been planned since then, and the family expressed readiness to move on as the town prepares to develop the space.

Their father, who passed away in 2005 at the age of 93, had built a career in restaurants and hotels after immigrating to the United States at just five years old. The family stated that Swampscott was not only where he opened two restaurants but also where he raised his family of four boys.

Athanas opened five restaurants in New England between 1937 and 1975. Despite opening multiple establishments in the Boston area, Hawthorne by the Sea and Anthony's Pier 4 Cafe were the last remaining parts of his legacy.

The restaurant recently auctioned off hundreds of items from the iconic properties, with the auction ending earlier this month. While the physical space is now being repurposed, the memories and stories associated with Hawthorne by the Sea will continue to live on in the hearts of those who visited.

As the restaurant closes, many wonder what the future holds for similar beloved dining institutions across the country. Will the loss of Hawthorne by the Sea signal the end of an era for family-run eateries? Only time will tell, but for now, the legacy of the Athanas family remains a cherished part of Swampscott’s history.