The vibrant city of Folsom is on the brink of welcoming a new culinary delight, Crawdads on the Lake, sparking considerable excitement among local food enthusiasts and regional visitors alike. This fresh entrant to the culinary scene is set to occupy the iconic spot formerly known as the Cliff House restaurant on Greenback Lane, infusing the historic location with a novel spirit. Co-owners Trevor Shults and Todd Zancaner, who have already proven their mettle with the successful Crawdads on the River, are eager to replicate their winning combination of delectable fare and lively atmosphere in a setting that boasts an unmatched lakeside view. Despite an initial goal to open by Memorial Day weekend, unforeseen challenges have shifted the grand opening, but not without setting a firm deadline. The establishment aims to swing open its doors to the public on June 14, following private openings, in readiness for an event featuring the Boomtown Saints on June 15.
Trevor Shults and Todd Zancaner bring over a decade of experience with their well-loved Crawdads on the River to this new venture, promising to blend familiar charms with fresh delights. The strategic selection of the opening date underscores their commitment to making Crawdads on the Lake a music and dining haven, with plans to feature a variety of musical acts, from Nashville recording artists to bands covering beloved classics. This endeavor is not just about offering a dining experience but also about creating a cultural hotspot where the community can come together to enjoy good food, fine music, and breathtaking views, all in a venue that honors its historical roots while stepping confidently into the future.
The transformation of the Cliff House into Crawdads on the Lake has been an ambitious project, marked by extensive renovations aimed at enhancing the structure’s charm and functionality. Structural improvements, the addition of a new bar, and a stage for live performances underscore the new owners’ vision of creating a vibrant entertainment and dining experience. Shults’s commitment to this vision extends to optimizing the lakeside ambiance, with the expansion of the outdoor patio by 2,000 square feet allowing patrons to indulge in the scenic beauty of Lake Natoma. These enhancements not only honor the legacy of the former establishment but also anticipate the creation of new memories and traditions for the community.
Anticipation for Crawdads on the Lake has been building, fueled by teasers of the anticipated menu and renovations shared on social media. The community’s enthusiastic response reflects a keen interest in what promises to be more than just a restaurant; it will be a gathering place where the legacy of good times and great food continues. While honoring the history of the Cliff House, Shults and Zancaner are set on writing a new chapter that adds to the rich tapestry of Folsom’s dining and cultural scene. The rapid progress from conception to near completion speaks volumes of the dedication behind this project, making the slightly delayed but highly anticipated grand opening a moment the community is eagerly waiting for.