On July 7, 2023, Taps Fish House & Brewery suddenly closed all its locations, leaving many loyal customers in shock. Known for its delicious steak, seafood, and craft beer, this beloved restaurant had been a staple in Orange County for years. The closure not only affected the diners who cherished their time there but also left around 200 employees and numerous vendors in uncertainty.
Joe Manzella, the founder of Taps Fish House & Brewery, had built a successful brand since its inception in 1999, expanding with multiple locations. However, his partnership with Randy Teffeteller led to significant mismanagement allegations, ultimately culminating in the business's downfall. This story highlights the importance of strong leadership and sound financial practices in the restaurant industry.
As the community grapples with the loss of Taps, many patrons have taken to social media to express their sorrow and share fond memories. The emotional connection people have with their favorite restaurants emphasizes the role these establishments play in our lives, serving as venues for celebrations and gatherings. The legacy of Taps Fish House & Brewery will be remembered fondly by those who enjoyed its offerings.
On July 7, Taps Fish House & Brewery shuttered all locations. The seemingly sudden closure came as a shock to many Orange County diners who frequented the legacy restaurant in Brea as well as its other concepts, Taps Brewery & Barrel Room, Taps Brewery + Kitchen and Taps Great American Brewery in Tustin, Anaheim, Yorba Linda and elsewhere. Known for steak, seafood and craft beer, Taps appeared to have survived the pandemic. Unfortunately, the business was unable to survive a partnership gone sour.
Joe Manzella founded Taps Fish House & Brewery in 1999, with backing from his late father. The concept found success, and he opened two more locations in Orange County and one in Corona. By 2019, Manzella had plans to expand the brand further and hired Randy Teffeteller, founder of West Coast Ventures & Resources, as an adviser. In 2020, the duo created Tableside Partners Inc., with Teffeteller as acting chief executive officer.
From there, the story of the collapse of a $30-million restaurant group gets as cloudy as
