Avery's Kitchen

Avery's Kitchen is family owned and operated. Avery Hernandez has been cooking in Port Aransas for over 39 years. Starting at the age of Twelve, he began stocking groceries and bussing tables at the Island Food Store under the tutelage of Roy Turnbuex, Pete Arzola Sr. (Big Pete) and Wilson White, Avery acquired the skills of baker, butcher and all around cook. From the Island Food Store, Avery went to work at Moss Hall before joining Big Pete to create the Island Cafe and Smokehouse. Together Pete and Avery created a menu that would please millions of people over the next 25 years. From the Island Favorite "Fish-N-Chips" to the All U Can Eat Flounder, Pete and Avery bit off more then they could chew. The future looked bright and business was booming. No one expected what would happen next. Big Pete Arzola suffered a heart attack and died in 1986 leaving the Island Cafe in the hands of the Arzola family. A year or so later Avery left the restuarant he helped build and went to work at Port Royal. His stay was brief however; and he eventually went to work for Bob and Carol Owens at Dockside Bar & Grill. Dockside is where the island favorite "two, two, two (2 pancakes, 2 Eggs, 2 pieces of bacon for $2.00) originated along with many other favorites such as the Western Omelet, Crab Omelet, Shrimp Omelet and even Avery's Famous Chicken Enchiladas. For over 15 years Avery filled Dockside day & night with delicious food and a no quit attitude. After Dockside closed it doors, Avery waited patiently for an opportunity to own his own restuarant, which brings us to Avery's Kitchen. By his side for all those years is his wonderful wife Sandy. She hasn't only given advice about decorations and accomodations, she also makes the delicious Key Lime pie. Avery has a son and two daughters who have helped with many aspects of the restuarant and numerous family members have helped contribute to his dream.