Chef Kris Wessel has become a bit of a local hero upon the recent opening of his new restaurant, Red Light. Located within Motel Blu (not the most prestigious locale) Wessel has set out to wow his guests with phenomenal seafood dishes and a surprising waterfront patio. An abundance of unsightly overgrown foliage was clogging up Little River and acting as a garbage snare. Wessel had the brush cleared away. Now the river runs freely and free of trash. It’s actually quite a pleasant atmosphere out there.

Wessel’s eco-friendly consciousness can be observed in his menu as well, which focuses on ecoprepared dishes inspired by the cuisine of Florida and Wessel’s native land, New Orleans. Frog’s legs and rabbit and callaloo are available for consumption on the waterfront patio, complete with a full bar. The air is casual at Red Light with prices to match.

The retro interior was designed by Jeff Vaughn. It’s a simple space with hanging lamps, a bar, buttery booths and busy red walls. The real treat is in the outdoors where the newly freed Little River can be enjoyed along with your eco-friendly food. –J.T.