Popular Sandwich Shop Closes In Norwalk After Nearly A Decade

The Dilly Duck Shop, a beloved local eatery, has shuttered its doors after nearly 10 years of serving the community.

Apr. 15, 2026 at 7:39pm

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A hazy, atmospheric photograph in soft, muted tones depicting the interior of a neighborhood sandwich shop, with blurred shelves, countertops, and indistinct human figures, conveying a sense of nostalgia and the loss of a cherished community gathering place.The closure of a beloved local sandwich shop marks the end of a community hub that fostered warmth and camaraderie for nearly a decade.Norwalk Today

The Dilly Duck Shop, a popular sandwich shop in Norwalk, Connecticut, has closed its doors after nearly a decade of operation. The business, which was run by owner Russ Zappala and his mother Phyllis, was known for its in-house rotisserie roasted meats, fresh salads, soups, and signature lemon fizzes. The shop had recently been ranked among Yelp's top 100 sandwich shops in the country.

Why it matters

The closure of The Dilly Duck Shop marks the end of a beloved local business that had become a community hub, fostering warmth and camaraderie among its loyal customers. The shop's demise reflects the challenges facing small, independent eateries in the face of changing consumer habits and economic pressures.

The details

The Dilly Duck Shop opened in 2017 at the Town Line Center shopping plaza in Norwalk, near the Wilton border. It was operated by Russ Zappala, who was also the chef, and his mother Phyllis, who ran the front of the house. The business was known for its in-house made menu items, including sandwiches, salads, soups, and bakery treats, as well as locally roasted coffee and espresso. Despite recent recognition as one of the top 100 sandwich shops in the country by Yelp, the Dilly Duck Shop has now closed its doors.

  • The Dilly Duck Shop opened in 2017.
  • The business closed its doors in April 2026.

The players

Russ Zappala

The owner of The Dilly Duck Shop and the chef for the restaurant.

Phyllis Zappala

The mother of Russ Zappala who ran the front of the house at The Dilly Duck Shop.

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What they’re saying

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

— Russ Zappala, Owner, The Dilly Duck Shop

“We loved knowing you, your families, and your friends. 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.”

— Russ Zappala, Owner, The Dilly Duck Shop

What’s next

There are no clear next steps related to the closure of The Dilly Duck Shop. The business has permanently shut down after nearly a decade of operation.

The takeaway

The closure of The Dilly Duck Shop, a beloved local sandwich shop in Norwalk, Connecticut, is a reminder of the challenges facing small, independent eateries in the face of changing consumer habits and economic pressures. The shop's demise marks the end of a community hub that had fostered warmth and camaraderie among its loyal customers over the past decade.