Purple Urchin Under New Management at Hampton Beach

Owners Jake and Maura Fleming have sold the Purple Urchin to brothers Casey and Ryan Anderson after 25 years of operation according to seacoastonline.com.  The brothers, Casey and Ryan, grew up in Stratham and spent many summers hanging out at Hampton Beach.  The Purple Urchin is on the second floor atop the Hampton Beach Casino and overlooks the popular Seashell Stage.  Hopefully, Seashell Stage will be able to have live music performances as the COVID-19 restrictions are gradually lifted in New Hampshire.  The Purple Urchin is an iconic spot for lunch and dinner at Hampton Beach and it’s nice to see it passed on to the brothers that have some local ties.

The Purple Urchin has been through a lot.  The business had a fire in 2016 and now are experiencing the aftershocks of the COVID-19 pandemic.  The situation was so dire, the Anderson brothers almost backed out of the deal for fear they would not be able to open put they persevered.  Ryan Anderson tells seacoastonline.com “It’s really an awesome opportunity to own a part of the Hampton Beach strip right now.”

The pandemic restrictions will surely challenge the Purple Urchin in its first year.  Seating will be limited as the restrictions require extra spacing between tables.  They also have provided catering services to the Hampton Beach Casino located beneath them in the past, but the Casino has been closed due to public health rules.  The restrictions are lifting gradually and hopefully the brothers will grow the Purple Urchin and come out of 2020 stronger than ever.