Muddy Rudder Restaurant in Yarmouth, Maine, is Closing Permanently

There are restaurants that come and then they go. It's the nature of the business. But there are some restaurants that when they go, it just feels a little different.

That will be the case with the Muddy Rudder, an institution in Yarmouth, Maine, for nearly 50 years. The restaurant took to Facebook as well as their website to announce that they were ceasing operations indefinitely.

First opening their doors in 1976, the Rudder has long been known as a seafood restaurant with river views. But for many years, it's also served as a decompression spot after a day in Freeport or a landmark for those driving on I-295. When you see the Rudder, you know you've arrived in Yarmouth.

The restaurant was renovated in 2008 and then went under new management in 2011. It's been operating that way since 2011.

In their short but succinct message on social media, the owners of the Rudder said in part:

The biggest thank you for the last 13 years. It has truly changed my life. You made a man's dream come true and for that i will be forever grateful. Although my heart is breaking it is also overflowing with gratitude

The restaurant and real estate is listed for sale currently. Perhaps the history of the Rudder could live on if the right owner emerges.

Muddy Rudder joins several other restaurants who have announced their permanently closure recently. That list includes Coal's Pizza, Thistle & Grouse as well as Sister's Gourmet Deli. All of those restaurants are located in Portland.