who we are & what we do
In 1985, John Christen, a Swiss born Gourmet Chef, decided to open a seafood restaurant which would primarily focus on top quality ingredients, a fun atmosphere, and incredible value. Thus, one of the original "Florida Seafood Joints" was born.
Shells was an instant hit. Cabbies all over the city knew to recommend Shells as the go-to place for out of towners and locals alike. It's detailed attention to top quality product, scratch cooking, attentive service, and competitive pricing led to the restaurant being voted runner up for the 1989 Small Business of the Year Award and winning the vote for the #1 seafood restaurant in Tampa 15 years in a row. (1987-2002)
40 years later, the son of the founder, also named John Christen, is carrying the torch his father lit in 1985. To this day, our mission is still to serve only the finest quality ingredients, prepared by experts in a fun, casual atmosphere.
You've discovered the best place for seafood in the neighborhood. So, come on in, sit back, relax and prepare to find out what real Florida seafood is all about.