Popular Sandwich Shop Closes In Norwalk After Nearly A Decade

NORWALK, CT — A popular sandwich shop has closed its doors in Norwalk after nearly a decade of serving hungry customers.

A sign could be seen posted on the doors of The Dilly Duck Shop at 666 Main Avenue earlier this week announcing the closure.

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Owner Russ Zappala confirmed the closure Tuesday in an email to Patch and shared a message for customers.

"After nearly 10 fantastic years of sharing our signature Dilly Duck Shop food, service and memories, it is time to say goodbye," the message reads.

Located near the Wilton border, The Dilly Duck Shop opened in 2017 at the Town Line Center shopping plaza alongside businesses such as Letizia's Pizza and Mr. Shower Door.

The business was operated by Zappala, who was also a chef for the restaurant, and his mother, Phyllis, who ran the front of the house, according to CT Bites.

The message from Zappala and his mother thanked both their "new customers that have become loyal regulars" and "loyal regulars that have become friends" for helping make the Main Avenue business a second home.

"We loved knowing you, your families, and your friends," the message reads. "From new jobs to newly retired, from newborns to new grandkids, we cherished creating a space where we could share in life's happenings. It has made each day's work incredibly meaningful. Your devotion, support, and friendship have engendered my mom and I endless joy and pride."

The message also notes The Dilly Duck Shop was created as a family business with one goal: to feed the community they loved.

"Within that simple framework, we have accomplished some truly incredible achievements," the message reads.

According to the message, The Dilly Duck Shop has received a number of online recognitions over the past few years, including being ranked among the top 100 sandwich shops in the country by Yelp last year.

"We were proud to bring in-house rotisserie roasted meats, lemon fizzes and our Dilly Duck charm to this area," the message reads. "Yet our greatest achievement is the warmth of community we helped to foster."

According to the business' website, The Dilly Duck Shop was inspired by the craft and cuisine of New England.

Everything at the store was made in-house, including sandwiches made from house rotisserie roasted meats, fresh salads, soups and bakery treats, as well as locally roasted espresso and coffee and "signature lemon fizzes," according to the website.

The message also noted any customers with unredeemed gift certificates can contact the business to be promptly reimbursed.

"Phyllis (Mom) and I will miss each and every one of you," the message reads. "We wish you the most happiness, health, and prosperity! Thank you for the experience of a lifetime."