The Basile brothers opened the Quarterdeck in Maynard in 1981.  But they were fishing and selling fish even earlier.

John was a commercial fisherman for 20 years, with his own fishing boat and a home base of Scituate.  Early on, brother Frank fished with John. When Chris was in school, John would leave a box of cod on the wharf in Scituate.  Chris would filet it and sell to tourists.

Later, Chris and brother Peter opened a convenience store in Waltham with a bakery and deli. After six months, John and Frank started supplying fish to the store. The fish was so fresh, it sold like hotcakes.  The brothers decided to concentrate on selling fish.

In 1978, the brothers bought the building in Maynard.  Over the next two years, they completely renovated the building.  Meanwhile Chris and Frank gained valuable experience by working at Legal Seafoods in Chestnut Hill. Frank did buying and Chris helped manage the takeout and market.

When the Quarterdeck opened in 1981, brothers Chris, Frank, Steve, and John ran the fish market. John operated his fishing and lobster boat, and supplied the Quarterdeck with his daily catch. Gradually the takeout business expanded include some tables and seating. The brothers added on to the building in 1988. Now it houses the fish market, restaurant, and catering business.

In 1999, Chris Basile bought out his brothers' share and became the sole owner of the business.  About the same time, John gave up the fishing life and now uses his experience to purchase the finest seafood for the Quarterdeck.

What's in store for the future? An expansion of grocery items and organic produce so you can get everything for a meal with one stop.  The Quarterdeck already ships seafood all over the country, and Chris plans to expand this service.  Additionally, there may be an oyster and sashimi bar in the future. Tell Chris what changes you would like.