Purveyor of Amazing: Meet Rey Resendez, the Stone Crab Claw-Cracking & Oyster-Shucking Maestro of Truluck’s

Claw by claw and shell by shell, Rey brings his passion for hospitality to Truluck’s.

At Truluck’s, excellence isn’t just an expectation—it’s a way of life. And behind every pristine plate of stone crab or perfectly shucked oysters is a culinary pro who lives and breathes hospitality. Rey Resendez, pantry chef, is one of our most seasoned team members and a true purveyor of amazing.

From Dishwasher to Culinary Dynamo

What started as a summer job quickly became Rey’s calling. His first gig in the industry was at TGI Fridays restaurant, where he worked in nearly every position except expo. But the spark was ignited long before. thanks to his mother, whose love of cooking left a lasting impression. Rey speaks of her with pride, recalling her influence as the reason he found joy in the kitchen.

After four years at TGI Fridays, Rey was hungry for something more refined. He dined at Truluck’s Austin Downtown location, tasted the quality, felt the vibe—and knew this was his next move. A chance run-in with a line cook led to a simple suggestion: “Come in. Apply. Ask for Captain Glen.” The rest, as they say, is history.

A Million Oysters and Counting

If you’ve ever enjoyed a flawless stone crab claw or delicately briny oyster at Truluck’s Austin, chances are Rey had a hand in it.

Over the course of his 20+ years at Truluck’s, Rey has shucked more than 1,000,000 oysters (Yes, really. One million oysters!) and cracked an astounding 125,000 pounds of Florida Stone Crab that equates to roughly 450,000 claws.

That level of craftsmanship, consistency, and passion doesn’t just happen. It’s earned. Day by day, claw by claw, shell by shell. And we couldn’t be more grateful to have him on our team. Rey brings not only talent but also humility, heart, and a deep love for the craft that lifts everyone around him.

Champion of Hospitality

For Rey, the heart of the job is hospitality. It’s not just about the guest; it’s about the entire team experience. As an Ambassador Trainer, Rey has helped open two Truluck’s locations, mentored new team members, and spread the culture of care and excellence that defines our restaurants.

When he’s not making culinary magic in the kitchen, Rey finds joy in slow-cooked comfort. His signature dish? Chicharrón in salsa verde with cilantro lime rice—a family favorite. A close second: his soul-warming Albondigas soup, a traditional Mexican meatball soup that Rey wishes he could have shared with the late Anthony Bourdain—someone he admired for his curiosity, grit, and unapologetic love of global cuisine.

More Than a Chef

Off the clock, Rey is all about good vibes and great food. He enjoys concerts, spending time outdoors, trying new restaurants, and cooking with his girlfriend and family. He lives life the way he works—full of flavor, music, and connection.

What’s Next?

Rey keeps it simple: he’s ready to shuck another million oysters and serve up another boatload of crab claws. And we’re lucky to have him by our side.

Want to taste Rey’s craftsmanship? Visit us at Truluck’s Austin Downtown location and taste the legacy for yourself. Make a reservation today. Your table is waiting.