Just over the Harbor Bridge, the family-owned and operated LeStourgeon Seafood Company opened its second restaurant location in August 2024. The LeStourgeons, Tara and Lance, pride themselves on serving the freshest seafood, sourced directly from the bay.
Lance LeStourgeon got his start in the restaurant business through construction, building small fast food establishments. During this time, he was introduced to the world of fish distribution, which led the LeStourgeons to an unexpected career change. After learning the tricks of the trade, they decided to open a seafood food truck on North Beach in 2016. After achieving much success, a customer presented the idea of opening a full-service restaurant.
In 2018, they began the process of opening their original location in Cottonwood Shores, in the Hill Country between Marble Falls and Horseshoe Bay. The grand opening was set for March 2020, just as the world was closing down due to the pandemic. Although customers could not dine in, it did not stop them from building relationships with their new loyal customers through to-go and delivery orders.
“My son, Zach LeStourgeon, now runs the Cottonwood Shores location. On any given day, you can find him in the kitchen or greeting customers that know and love him,” Lance shared.
The menu at LeStourgeon Seafood Company has many seafood staples that are familiar examples of comfort food done right; you’ll find hometown fried southern dishes and some creole classics.
“Part of our menu came from Duane Unterbrink, who owned a restaurant in Kingsville. Still today he makes our tartar sauce, citrus vinaigrette, gumbo and etouffee,” Tara said. Many of their menu items are sourced directly from the bay, such as oysters and flounder. “With Duane’s family history of commercial fishing, it has helped us bring in the freshest seafood,” she continued.
Shane Riley, head cook at the Portland location, ensures every dish that leaves the kitchen meets the highest standards of freshness and flavor. His dedication to consistently serving quality dishes with locally sourced ingredients means that every dish served is a true taste of the Gulf.
He humbly attributes the kitchen’s success to the “back of the house,” explaining that it is a true team effort and he could not do it without them.
“What started as a business opportunity has grown to be so much more. We have met so many people along the way in both the Hill Country and Portland,” Tara said. “Our passion and commitment are to provide the best food, the best service and dining experience to our customers.”
Contact: 1010 Railroad Ave. | 361.704.6267
