Alan Hale Jr. didn't just portray the 'Skipper' on Gilligan's Island, but
was also a well known owner of a restaurant called "The Lobster Barrel."
His famous restaurant, which was in business for about 15 years in the 70's
and 80's, was Located on Hollywood's 'Restaurant Row.' Alan often greeted
customers wearing his skipper's hat just like the one he wore in the show. He
would stroll through the restaurant greeting patrons, signing autograph
cards and even giving away several "Captain's Hats." Folks said time after
time that Alan had always shown extreme good will which made their experience
much more memorable.
The Lobster Barrel is now closed and was the home of a bar called "The Shark Bar Restaurant." Not too sure why it is no longer in business, but it's still standing and you can see it at 826 N. La Cienega Blvd. in Los Angeles, CA.
Dave Cunnnigham wrote to us and said that his parents took him to eat there once when Alan Hale Jr. was there. They all had steak except for his Dad, he had the lobster. After dinner the Skipper was at the door greeting guests, and he thanked them for coming. Alan looked down at David, messed up his hair and said, "Thanks for coming little buddy!" David remembers it like it was yesterday.
It was a very nice dining experience and an elegant restaurant. There were
plenty of waiters, who were in tuxedos or formal wear. They were very
attentive too. When you drank out of your water glass, they were there
immediately refilling it.
My father thought the waiters were a little too attentive. He said they
kept an eye on us "like they were the Mafia." I didn't pick up on that,
though, so maybe it was just his perception.
I had Lobster Newburg. It was delicious. I don't remember what the others
had.
Outside Lobster Barrel
Inside Lobster Barrel
Lobster Barrel Matchbook
Lobster Barrel Business Card
Lobster Barrel Comic