Gulf Coast Grit & Sustainability

Where oysters become a legacy—and a movement

Along the edge of Galveston Bay, a family business turned into something much bigger. What started as long days on the water has evolved into one of the most recognized sustainable fisheries in the country. At the center of it is Raz Halili—a San Leon native who grew up understanding that oysters aren’t just seafood, they’re essential to the ecosystem.

Each oyster filters water, strengthens coastlines, and supports marine life. That early perspective shaped everything he’s built—blending tradition, sustainability, and business into something that’s impacting far beyond the Gulf.

Here’s what makes it worth paying attention to.

Built From the Water Up
This wasn’t a startup story—it was inherited, learned, and earned. From cleaning docks to captaining boats as a teenager, Raz grew into the family operation that would become Prestige Oysters.

Sustainability That’s Actually Proven
Not just a buzzword. Through rigorous certification with the Marine Stewardship Council, the company became the first private oyster fishery in the U.S. to meet global sustainability standards.

Restoration at Scale
This goes beyond harvesting. The family has invested millions into rebuilding oyster reefs—putting hundreds of millions of pounds of shell back into the water to restore habitats and protect the coastline.

From Fishery to Table
The vision didn’t stop at the water. Pier 6 Seafood & Oyster House brings a true tide-to-table experience, where what’s caught offshore shows up on your plate—fresh, intentional, and local.

Turning Setbacks Into Strategy
Moments like the Deepwater Horizon oil spill exposed how little people understood about the industry. Instead of stepping back, it pushed a bigger mission—education, transparency, and doing things the right way.

Expanding the Vision
From reviving local favorites like Fish Company Taco to launching new concepts, the goal is clear: build something that lasts—both in business and in the environment.

Why This Matters
This isn’t just about oysters or restaurants. It’s about protecting a resource that supports entire communities, economies, and ecosystems.

The Bottom Line
This isn’t just a family business.

It’s a long-term investment in the Gulf Coast—and proof that doing things the right way can scale.