You're driving down Marina Bay Drive in Kemah, and if you aren't looking closely, you might miss it. It’s not the flashy, neon-lit tourist traps you find on the Boardwalk. It’s a building that looks like it’s seen a few Gulf storms, and honestly, that’s exactly why the locals love it. Joe Lee's Seafood Kitchen isn't trying to be the next big "concept" restaurant. It’s a family-run joint that has been around for over 30 years, and it's basically the soul of the Clear Lake Shores seafood scene.
People get confused. They hear "Joe" and "Seafood" and think of the big corporate crab shack down the street. Big mistake. One is a chain owned by a massive conglomerate; the other is run by Suzanne Lee and her sons, Joe Jr. and Mike. It’s the difference between a microwave and a cast-iron skillet.
The Real Story Behind the Screen Door
Most folks don't realize that the history of this place is tied to the very fabric of Kemah. Joe Lee wasn't just a restaurant owner; he was a mayor and a council member. He moved here in 1970. By 1985, the city even proclaimed April 12th as Joe Lee Day. Think about that. How many restaurant owners have their own day?
When Joe passed away in 1996, the family didn't sell out. Suzanne and her boys kept the fryers hot. They kept the "The Place" vibe alive. It’s the kind of spot where you order at a counter, grab a plastic tray, and wait for some of the freshest fish in Texas.
What You’re Actually Ordering (And Why It Matters)
If you walk in and just order "fish," you're doing it wrong. You've gotta look at the board.
The Blackened Red Fish & Shrimp is usually the star of the show. It comes with Cajun rice, green beans, and a roll. For about $20, you’re getting a portion that would cost you double at a sit-down place with cloth napkins. The seasoning isn't just salt and pepper; it’s got that deep, smoky heat that tells you someone in the kitchen actually knows their way around a spice rack.
Then there’s the Famous Fish Sandwich. It’s sort of a local legend. The fish is always significantly larger than the bun. It’s comical, really. You end up eating the edges with a fork before you can even pick the thing up.
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- The S.S.B.G Ultimate: Yeah, it’s a seafood place, but they make a mean Bacon, Mushroom & Swiss Cheeseburger.
- Shrimp 4 Ways: If you’re indecisive, this is your safety net.
- The Shrimp Slaw: This is a weird one that works. It’s coleslaw with tiny shrimp mixed in. It sounds specific, and it is. People swear by it.
Why "Fancy" People Hate It (And Why They’re Wrong)
Let's be real for a second. If you’re looking for a five-star bathroom with marble counters, Joe Lee's is going to disappoint you. The building is old. The restrooms are... well, they’re dated. Some people complain about the cleanliness or the wait times during the Saturday rush.
But that’s the trade-off.
You aren't paying for the decor. You’re paying for the fact that they still use a pistolette—that Cajun-style fried bread—instead of a generic dinner roll. You’re paying for the "shrimp sides" that come with the catfish dinner. You're paying for a piece of 1970s Texas that hasn't been bulldozed to make room for another parking garage.
The Local Secret to Visiting
Don't go at 6:30 PM on a Saturday if you hate crowds. It gets packed. The line can snake toward the door, and because everything is cooked to order, the kitchen can get backed up.
If you want the best experience, aim for a late lunch. Around 2:00 PM on a Thursday is the sweet spot. You get the fast service, the quiet atmosphere, and the freshest batch of Key Lime Pie for dessert.
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Honestly, the prices are some of the most reasonable in the Bay Area. You can get a regular catfish dinner for under $10. In 2026, finding a meal that isn't twenty bucks is getting harder and harder.
Practical Steps for Your Visit
- Check the Daily Specials: They often have "Blue Plate Specials" for lunch and dinner that aren't on the permanent menu.
- Ask for Extra Tartar Sauce: Theirs is house-made and you’re going to need it for that oversized fish sandwich.
- Bring the Kids: It’s incredibly family-friendly. There's a kids' menu and plenty of "fishing" decor to keep them occupied.
- Try the Cracklins: If they have them available as an appetizer, grab them. They’re the perfect salty start to a greasy, glorious meal.
Joe Lee’s Seafood Kitchen is a reminder that the best food doesn't always come from a chef in a white hat. Sometimes, it comes from a family that has been standing behind the same counter for fifty years, making sure the shrimp is fresh and the beer is cold.
If you're heading to Kemah, skip the Boardwalk chain restaurants for once. Drive the extra mile down Marina Bay Drive. Look for the older building. Order the blackened redfish. You'll thank me later.
Next Steps:
If you're planning a trip to the Kemah area, you should check the current operating hours on their official site, as they typically close at 8:00 PM on weekdays and 9:00 PM on weekends. Make sure to bring a physical credit card or use mobile pay, as they accept both for convenience.