More than a seafood spot, it's a legacy that started on the docks and blossomed into a beloved Houston eatery with three locations.
A family seafood legacy
Blue Water Seafood’s story begins on the Texas coast.
Blue Water Seafood was founded by Ping and Brad Aplin, who turned their Gulf Coast connection into a restaurant built on tradition, hard work and heart.
“My dad was a third-generation commercial fisherman,” Marketing Manager Breeana Aplin said. “They sold seafood right off the docks, and my mom would cook whatever Dad caught. That’s how Blue Water was born.”
What began with selling fresh seafood directly off the docks has grown into a family of three restaurants, each anchored in the Applins’ love for quality and community.
Blue Water Seafood isn’t just about history; it’s about flavor. The Applin family has crafted a menu reflecting their Gulf Coast roots, Cajun influences and dedication to fresh ingredients. From crispy appetizers to hearty seafood entrees and delicious non-seafood options, there’s something for everyone.
Appetizers:
- Crawfish pistolet
- Boudin
- Crab-stuffed shrimp
- Fried green tomatoes
- Fried crawfish and étouffée
- Seaside tacos
- Catfish combo
- The blue water seafood boil
- Cajun chicken sandwich
- Burgers
- Cobb salad
- Chicken po’boy
“We only serve recipes we enjoy and would order ourselves,” Aplin said. “Our goal is to make every meal feel like it’s made with care, from our family to yours.”
Fresh ingredients, family expertise
Blue Water Seafood prides itself on the freshest, highest-quality ingredients. The Applins personally source their seafood, maintaining close ties with local fishermen.
“My mom calls them weekly to check what’s fresh and available,” Aplin said. “We know the people who catch our seafood—it’s a personal connection from water to table.”
Brad Aplin's son and current culinary director, Brawder Aplin blends classical French techniques with Gulf Coast and Cajun traditions. Every new dish is tasted and approved by staff and management before reaching the menu.
This commitment to quality ensures every bite reflects care, flavor and nearly 30 years of family tradition.
Weekly specials
At Blue Water Seafood, enjoy fresh seafood at a great value. Their rotating weekly specials highlight the Gulf Coast’s best while keeping things fun and flavorful:
- Sunday: Buy two snow crabs clusters, get the third free
- Monday: $1 oysters
- Tuesday: Taco Tuesday $2 off tacos
- Wednesday: Roasted oysters on the grill
- Thursday: 10 shrimp for $10.99
Blue Water Seafood welcomes everyone with a warm, family-friendly atmosphere at its three Houston-area locations. Each spot has its own vibe, but all three are casual and approachable—proving that enjoying seafood doesn’t have to be fancy.
- 1960/290: 12914 FM 1960 W, Houston
- 2920 Spring: 4921 FM 2920 Road, Spring
- Champions: 6107 FM 1960 W, Houston
For nearly three decades, Blue Water Seafood has thrived due to the support and loyalty of its Houston community.
“We wouldn’t be here without our guests,” Aplin said. “Every visit, recommendation and celebration in our restaurants reminds us why we do what we do. Our community kept us afloat during COVID, and their support helps us continue and grow my dad’s legacy. We hope to give back a fraction of the love and encouragement we’ve received.”
Their message is simple: thank you for letting us share our love of fresh seafood, family recipes and genuine hospitality with you.
Visit Blue Water Seafood or one of its three locations to experience it. To explore the Menu, click here.
The above story was produced by Multi Platform Journalist Chloe Chapel with Community Impact's Storytelling team with information solely provided by the local business as part of their "sponsored content" purchase through our advertising team.
