Famous billionaire goes to court with local residents

Duryea’s Lobster Deck, owned by Marc Rowan, the CEO of investment giant Apollo Global Management, has become a hotspot for celebrities and social media influencers, thanks to its seafood offerings and sunset views. The establishment, which features a $97 lobster salad and a selection of champagnes, is cited as one of the region’s most eye‑catching luxury venues.

However, the restaurant’s expansion, which has a capacity of about 100 people, put Rowan at odds with local residents.

Duryea’s, whose history dates back to the 1920s, originally operated as a modest seafood shop. Its former owner began expanding the business in the 1990s. In response to complaints from residents, the East Hampton Planning Board investigated the matter and ruled that a fully‑fledged restaurant could not be operated in the area, thereby prohibiting unauthorized expansion.

After Marc Rowan purchased the property in 2014, the dispute took on a new dimension. A flurry of lawsuits was filed between the billionaire businessman and local authorities over parking arrangements, pier‑use rights, and septic infrastructure.

Zoning restrictions also affected the restaurant’s service model. In a venue where servers cannot take orders directly from tables, customers mark their choices on the menu and then pay at the cashier.

Rowan’s side argues that Duryea’s Lobster Deck is not officially a restaurant and that the building’s historic footprint is protected. Residents, however, contend that the current state of the facility has never gone through the required legal permitting process.

The future of the business, which has attracted intense interest with its luxury menu and view, will be determined by the outcome of the years‑long legal battle between the parties.