Update: Formerly called Gumbo's on the Lake, the restaurant rebranded to Bon Temps Creuset after publication of this story.
Lakeside diners received a new option this spring with the opening of Gumbo’s on the Lake. Tracy Shinsel, owner and director of operations, opened the casual fine-dining restaurant in April, bringing Cajun flavors to The Oasis shopping center at 6550 Comanche Trail, Austin.
“With the spectacular views and what we were able to do with the interior, we were able to bring Gumbo’s to a new level,” Shinsel said. “It’s a light, airy location.”
The main dining room’s back windows overlook the lake, offering diners a view of sunsets, as does the outdoor patio. A dividing wall in the dining room allows large groups privacy for celebrations or intimacy for a romantic evening out.
“It’s been fun and a lot of work getting to where we need to be,” Shinsel said.
Originally opened in conjunction with the owners of Gumbo’s in Georgetown, Shinsel now owns the lakeside location outright with his partner in life and business, Bryan Cromwell.
Cromwell serves as the restaurant’s director of culinary operations and created the menu. Fresh fish is delivered four times a week and cut down to fillets on-site. The kitchen grinds all its own meat, including fresh-made andouille sausage. All the pasta is fresh, and when it comes to beef, Shinsel said diners “won’t find a better filet.”
“We want to make sure everyone has a great time and eats a quality, fantastic, care-prepared meal,” he said. Some of the more popular menu items are the blackened redfish and any style of catfish, he said.
At the bar the focus is on a classic cocktail menu reminiscent of the “Big Easy,” featuring the Sazerac; and the Aviation, a martini made with creme de violette. All juices for cocktails are fresh-squeezed, and instead of simple syrup, bartenders use agave syrup. Even Monday’s $4 margaritas are made with fresh lime juice, Shinsel said.