Don’s Seafood: Future Still Undecided

Don’s Seafood, the Baton Rouge landmark located at 6823 Airline Highway, was flooded in August and badly damaged.  After the water receded, the building stood idle and was not gutted, which led some to conclude that the Landry family had no intention to reopen.
However, Mike Landry said Wednesday no decision has been made.  “The building was a total loss and will have to be demolished, but we are still considering the options.”
Before the flood, the restaurant reportedly operated profitably despite the overall decline of the neighborhood.  It was a “destination” location, which drew customers from throughout the area and tourists visiting Baton Rouge.
Landry said the family has deep emotional ties to the restaurant and that is a factor.
There are seven Don’s locations outside Baton Rouge.  In addition, one of the family members, Duke Landry, started his own restaurant in Watson a year ago.  Known as Duke’s, it is located at 33920 La Hwy 16.
Duke Landry is the former national oyster shucking champion.  He just returned from Ireland, where he placed 10th in the world oyster shucking championships.