Laishley's Crab House "Soft Opening" in Punta Gorda packs the House

No surprise, but it looked as if everyone from Punta Gorda who wasn't asked to the "invitation only" event Tuesday night at the long awaited Laishey Crab House was there Wednesday to inspect. And for a so-called "soft-opening" it bedazzled. From the moment you walk through the doors into the imposing multi-story foyer with its glass atrium ceiling resembling the lanthern of lighthouse, you know Bruce Laishley and partners have created a beacon, which will attract people from all over Southwest Florida to Punta Gorda.

The stairs up to the restaurant are steep, but an elevator also delivers customers up to the bar area, which was bustling with patrons. A large crab sculture dangles from the sky-lighted tray ceiling in the bar

This isn't your ordinary waterfront joint or Harpoon Harry's II. It has a style and flavor all its own. Nor is it the Captain's Table. It has a style and flavor all its own.