**Closure of Iconic Family Restaurant Marks the End of an Era**
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/Kellys-Seafood-philadelphia-073-03112026-d20af1a1e1684a33a73361f6a1dd4bdc.jpg)
A beloved family-run establishment in Philadelphia is set to close its doors after nearly seven decades of service. Kelly’s Seafood, a restaurant renowned for its seafood offerings, announced its decision to sell the property following 68 years of operation, during which it became a cherished part of the local dining scene.
On March 7, the restaurant shared a heartfelt message on Facebook, expressing immense gratitude to its loyal patrons who have supported them throughout challenging times. “To say we are thankful is an understatement,” the post stated. The announcement signifies a significant moment in the history of Kelly’s Seafood, which has been a staple for two generations of the Kelly family.
Brett Kelly, who currently co-runs the restaurant with his twin brother, Brian, spoke about the numerous difficulties their family has encountered over the past few years. At 62 years old, Brett revealed that the family was hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic, along with personal health issues affecting the business. He shared that their father, who founded the restaurant with Brett’s grandfather, passed away two years ago, leaving a profound void in their operations.
The situation became increasingly difficult as Brian’s health deteriorated, ultimately leading to his departure from the day-to-day management of the restaurant. Brett reflected on their long-standing motto, “There’s always a Kelly in the kitchen”, saying he has found himself working tirelessly to keep the establishment running. “This means I have to be here pretty much day and night, so it’s starting to take a toll on me,” he admitted.
As the family faced these hurdles, it was ultimately Brett’s mother who suggested it might be time to sell the property. After much deliberation, the family reached a consensus to put the restaurant on the market. Notably, they clarified that while the property is being sold, the Kelly name will be removed from the building, and the business itself will not continue under the current ownership.
“It’s bittersweet,” Brett commented on the transition. “We knew this would eventually happen.” Despite the sorrow attached to this decision, he acknowledged the necessity behind it: “We hate it, but we have to do it.”
In response to the announcement, customers from far and wide have been reaching out to express their sorrow and gratitude. One customer, who resides an hour away, contacted Brett after hearing the news, saying he wanted to visit one last time before the restaurant closed. He reminisced about working at Kelly’s Seafood in 1982—a poignant reminder of the lasting connections fostered at the establishment.
Brett also noted that many former employees who had contributed to the restaurant since the 1980s have come forward to offer their appreciation and share cherished memories. Among the many inquiries, patrons were particularly curious about the famous snapper soup, a signature dish that has graced the menu for decades. Brett indicated a desire to take the recipe with him into the next chapter of life, hinting at potential culinary adventures to come.
“Our aim has always been to nurture our employees to become good people, and I believe everyone who has worked here has left as a better version of themselves,” Brett reflected, emphasising the importance of community and values that have defined Kelly’s Seafood.
Before officially listing the property, the Kelly family informed their staff of the decision, ensuring open communication throughout the transition. They then notified their customers, allowing them to use any gift certificates before the sale finalises. In Brett’s words, “We’re not going to be that place or that restaurant that just puts a note on the door and shuts the door.”
As reported by PhillyVoice, the restaurant’s property is currently listed for approximately £2.2 million. This includes not only the restaurant space but also an apartment and liquor licence, indicating the full depth of the investment that has been made in the establishment over the years.
Kelly’s Seafood will undoubtedly be missed by the local community, but the legacy of the establishment—as well as the memories created there—will remain ingrained in the hearts of many. The Kelly family, having impacted countless lives through their dedication to food and hospitality, leaves behind an enduring legacy that embodies the spirit of community and resilience in the face of challenges.