Long John Silver’s reopens Cedar Rapids location after fire

CEDAR RAPIDS — After a fire and much anticipation, Long John Silver’s has reopened its only restaurant in the Corridor.

The southwest Cedar Rapids location at 2630 Williams Blvd. SW, reopened on Oct. 10. The fast food restaurant’s location, closed by a fire on Dec. 12, was initially set to reopen late in the summer.

The renovated space offers a new modern makeover to “remind mariners of the open ocean,” the fried fish chain said in a press release, with a “unique seafood experience that should be available to all.”

“We’re thrilled to welcome our guests back to our Cedar Rapids location,” said Jimmy Douglas, senior director of operations at Long John Silver’s. “With a sleek, modern look and welcoming atmosphere, we can’t wait for everyone to enjoy the updates we’ve made."

The Cedar Rapids restaurant, opened in 1973, is one of the oldest locations of the chain first established in 1969. It became the Corridor’s only remaining location after another Cedar Rapids location at 3801 First Ave. SE closed in June 2014 — one of eight shuttered across Iowa.

“At Long John Silver’s, we’re dedicated to delivering a quality seafood experience that’s both delicious and affordable,” said Leigh Ann VanDam, vice president of design and development at Long John Silver’s. “Creating a welcoming atmosphere for our guests to enjoy their meals is a top priority. We are excited for guests to experience our new look, which blends a modern design with elements that reflect our deep love for the sea.”

The location is open 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday; 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.

Comments: Features reporter Elijah Decious can be reached at (319) 398-8340 or elijah.decious@thegazette.com.