Sustainable Seafood & Thai Cuisine: Lemongrass's Commitment to the Ocean

Local Sourcing: Harbor to Table

Sustainability at Lemongrass Seafood Bar & Grill begins with proximity. Located steps from Moss Landing Harbor — the most active commercial fishing port between San Francisco and Morro Bay — we have the unique advantage of buying directly from local fishermen who operate in accordance with strict California fishing regulations. This direct relationship eliminates the long supply chains that characterize most restaurant seafood procurement, reducing both carbon emissions from transportation and the quality degradation that comes with extended cold storage. When you order seafood at Lemongrass, you're supporting a local fishing community that has sustained the Monterey Bay economy for generations, while enjoying seafood at the absolute peak of freshness.

Our relationships with local fishermen allow us to know exactly where and how our seafood was caught. We prioritize catches from well-managed fisheries that use responsible methods — hook and line over trawling, trap over net where possible. This selective approach means our Silver Boat platter and Tom Yum soup feature fish and shellfish harvested in ways that minimize bycatch and habitat damage. It also means our menu naturally reflects what's abundant and in season, which is both ecologically responsible and culinarily superior — seasonal seafood simply tastes better.

Seasonal Approach to Seafood

Rather than offering a fixed seafood menu year-round, Lemongrass embraces a seasonal approach that works in harmony with the ocean's natural cycles. During Dungeness crab season, our curries and presentations feature fresh crab. When local squid runs are strong, our calamari stir-fries showcase this abundant local catch. Salmon season brings fresh king salmon to our grill. This approach means our seafood is always at peak quality and our relationship with the ocean is one of respect rather than exploitation. Our kitchen team views seasonal variation not as a limitation but as an inspiration — each season brings new creative possibilities for Thai preparations.

Sustainability Beyond Seafood

Our commitment to sustainability extends beyond our seafood sourcing. We use eco-friendly packaging for all takeout and delivery orders, choosing compostable and recyclable containers wherever possible. Our kitchen practices minimize food waste through careful ingredient management, staff training, and creative use of trim and byproducts in stocks and sauces. We support local agriculture alongside local fisheries, sourcing herbs and produce from Central Coast farms when available. And we actively participate in community environmental efforts, because protecting the beauty and health of Monterey Bay — the ecosystem that sustains our restaurant and our community — is both a moral obligation and a business imperative.