One of the valleys hidden gems. Great place to eat. Wednesday and Saturday's they have specials with 1.5x the protein, i.e. 1.5x the normal amount of fish or shrimp. The fish soup is wonderful as is the chips and salsa.
Overview
If you're craving fresh seafood and live near Donna, Texas, Lighthouse Seafood Market is a must-visit destination. Tucked away at 3007 E Business Hwy 83, this charming spot combines a market and a diner, offering some of the best seafood in the area. Whether you’re a seafood enthusiast or just looking to try something new, the dishes here will have you coming back for more.
The moment you walk into Lighthouse Seafood Market, you’re greeted by the unmistakable smell of fresh seafood. The market section is stocked with a variety of fish, shrimp, crabs, and shellfish, all ready for you to take home. But what makes this place stand out is its ability to serve up dishes using these same ingredients in their cozy dining area. From sizzling plates of shrimp and fish to more elaborate seafood platters, each meal is prepared with care and attention to detail.
One of the highlights at this local gem is the shrimp, which many regulars swear by. Whether you prefer them grilled, fried, or in a savory shrimp cocktail, they always deliver. A recent visit had me trying the fried shrimp basket, and I was impressed by how crispy yet tender the shrimp were. Paired with a side of fries and a zesty dipping sauce, it was a dish worth coming back for. For those who prefer something lighter, the grilled fish tacos are another fan favorite. The fish is always perfectly seasoned, and the tacos come loaded with fresh toppings, making them a delicious and satisfying choice.
What’s even better is the casual and welcoming vibe of the restaurant. The staff are friendly, always eager to chat about the menu or recommend a dish if you’re unsure what to order. The restaurant’s laid-back atmosphere makes it the perfect place to enjoy a leisurely meal with friends or family. It’s not overly fancy, but that’s part of the charm. You feel right at home, like you're enjoying seafood in someone’s kitchen.
When it comes to the menu, there’s a range of options for everyone. For starters, you can dive into dishes like crab cakes, oysters, or a seafood platter that brings together the best of what the market has to offer. If you’re in the mood for something heartier, their signature fried fish and chips is a dish you don’t want to miss. And for those who prefer something on the lighter side, there are always options like grilled fish or shrimp salads, perfect for a healthy, yet satisfying meal.
In addition to the food, Lighthouse Seafood Market is committed to sourcing fresh, high-quality ingredients. Their dedication to offering sustainable and local seafood makes a significant difference in the taste and quality of the dishes. Knowing that you're enjoying food that supports local fishermen and sustainable practices makes every bite even better.
Aside from the incredible food, the prices at Lighthouse Seafood Market are reasonable, especially considering the quality of the dishes. Whether you’re dropping in for a quick lunch or planning a special dinner, the prices won’t break the bank. You get a lot of value for what you’re paying, which is always a bonus when dining out.
For anyone looking for a hidden gem in the Donna area, Lighthouse Seafood Market should be at the top of your list. The combination of fresh seafood, casual dining, and friendly service makes it a standout in the local food scene. Whether you’re picking up fresh fish to cook at home or sitting down to enjoy a delicious seafood meal, this spot delivers every time. So, next time you're in the mood for seafood, make sure to stop by - you won’t regret it.
Good to know
Service options
✓ Kerbside pickup ✓ Delivery ✓ Drive-through ✓ Takeaway ✓ Dine-inHighlights
✓ Serves local specialtyPopular for
✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner ✓ Solo diningAccessibility
✓ Wheelchair-accessible car park ✓ Wheelchair-accessible entrance ✓ Wheelchair-accessible seating ✓ Wheelchair-accessible toiletOfferings
✓ Coffee ✓ Comfort food ✓ Healthy options ✓ Quick bite ✓ Small platesDining options
✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner ✓ Dessert ✓ Seating ✓ Table serviceAmenities
✓ ToiletAtmosphere
✓ Casual ✓ Cosy ✓ QuietCrowd
✓ Groups ✓ TouristsPlanning
✓ Accepts reservationsPayments
✓ Credit cards ✓ Debit cards ✓ NFC mobile payments ✓ Credit cardsChildren
✓ Good for kids ✓ High chairsParking
✓ Free of charge street parking ✓ Free parking lot ✓ ParkingPhotos
Location
Reviews
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ This place never disappoints—it’s my favorite go-to spot! The atmosphere is calm and welcoming, and the staff always greet you with a smile. I love how attentive the servers are—my glass is never empty for long. The food? Absolutely delicious. Their bass fish plate is a must-try, the soups are comforting, and the chips with salsa are dangerously addictive. Honestly, I’ve tried almost everything on the menu, and each dish has its own charm—flavorful, beautifully presented, and reasonably priced. If you haven’t been here yet, you’re missing out. It’s one of those places you’ll visit once and then keep coming back to. Highly recommended! — A happy repeat customer
My favorite is shrimp tacos! But I have had many items on the menu and all are delicious! My husband loves the fried oysters because the batter is so light and done just right. I like grilled shrimp and the soups. We usually have a complimentary small bowl of fish soup. Their broth is delicious.
Excellent well established seafood restaurant in the Heart of the City of Donna. The seafood is delicious. Drop by the Lighthouse Seafood Market and visit with the owner, Mr. Martin Portillo..
Bomb! I can't believe that I've never even heard of this spot, and it's been around for almost 10 years. I got the Fried Shrimp Special and it was excellent. Shrimp, Rice, Salad, and Tea included. The salad was iceberg, a few cherry tomatoes, and carrots. The rice was lightly seasoned and had corn mixed in, the shrimp were perfectly cooked and plentiful. I also tasted the Balsa fish, and it was really good. I'm definitely coming back here soon.
The food really very good. Wednesday is double fish day. You will always leave satisfied
Amazing from the fish soup to the sides (rice and veggies) to the entree and Martin, the owner, is always so welcoming.