It takes hard work, dedication, and a community spirit for a small business to celebrate 40 successful years. Mike's Seafood, located at 123 S. Main Street, Shenandoah is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year and embodies each one of these qualities and more. We recently asked Joyce Breslosky, one of the founders and owners of this popular family-owned business, to share their story. It’s an endearing one that started when she and her husband, “Capt. Mike met while working at the same Florida seafood restaurant. They grew fond of each other and would eventually get married and settle down in Shenandoah, Mike’s hometown. Both were interested in seafood and opened a shop in 1984. “It was a partnership for us from the start, but he was always the driving force,” Joyce explained. She added that they always worked together as a team, and learned along the way, perfecting recipes that are still available today.
Pictured above: A 1984 newspaper article covering Shenandoah's Mike's Seafood opening
"No Short Cuts! Done Right Every Time!"
One thing you notice the moment you walk into Mike's Seafood is the clean, bright, and friendly atmosphere. This is one of the hallmarks of this family business, that, and delicious options including fresh seafood and homemade salads. Joyce shared that Mike’s Seafood was the first in the area to make seafood salad, originally, Mike’s Famous Crab Salad. “Our number one seller, is coleslaw, a must-have for customer’s holiday meals and a Friday staple to go with fish.” Another top seller is seasonal Maryland Blue Crabs available from June through November. “We have a true following of crab lovers,” said Joyce. “By the crab or by the bushel, we compete with “down the shore,” even though we are in this little coal town”. Joyce added that quality ingredients, consistency, and freshness are all important for our success. Mike’s motto has always been, "no short cuts, done right every time!”
The Business and Family Grows Together
Mike’s Seafood was originally located at 2 West Washington Street right across from the Shenandoah Borough Hall. Within a short time, they grew and moved to the former Supremes’ Long Bar at 123 S. Main Street. “It gave us more retail space, a larger kitchen, parking, and family space in the upper floors,” said Joyce. “He didn’t stop there though. Mike had always dreamed of running his own restaurant. Our fish market and a 50-seat dining room worked perfectly together for 20 years until the dining room closed when Capt. Mike retired."
Throughout the years, Mike’s Seafood has grown a customer base throughout Schuylkill, Luzerne, Columbia and Berks Counties. “We wouldn’t be here after 40 years without them,” said Joyce. She added that they are more than just a retailer, there is always an owner available to offer knowledge and service. “it’s easy to grab something at the supermarket so we truly appreciate customers going out of their way to shop with us."
Secret to 40 Successful Years
When asked what the secret to their 40 years of success, Joyce replied that Mike was a Marine and Vietnam Veteran. That combined with growing up in a hardworking coal town was, “character building, for sure.” Now their oldest son, Mike Jr., continues the family tradition and is major player in their business success. Blaise, their youngest son, has a separate career but Joyce said that he always lends a hand during the holidays and busy times. “Working as a family business from a young age helped to develop a good work ethic and excellent people skills. We are proud of the positivity they both bring to the shop."
Learn more about Mike's Seafood on their website. Congratulations to our friends at Mike's Seafood for 40 amazing years serving Shenandoah and the surrounding communities!
