About Us

Our Anchor in Tell City
Lock & Keel was born from Ian’s passion for food, community, and exploration. Originally from the scenic town of Homer, Alaska, Ian and Claire made the move to Tell City to be closer to Ian’s family roots, and to create something special for the community.
What started as a dream has grown into more than just a restaurant. Lock & Keel is a gathering place. Anchored in community and built on the idea of sharing great meals with great people. With a strong love for coastal flavors, Ian brings inspiration from his world travels back to Tell City, introducing fresh seafood and creative new dishes to the menu.
At Lock & Keel, we’re proud to serve up more than food, we’re here to serve connection, flavor, and a sense of home.




Where Good Times Set Sail
Born in Anchorage, Alaska in 1978 and raised in the coastal town of Homer, Ian Russell’s life was shaped by the sea and a deep-rooted sense of adventure. He began his maritime career at just 16, working as a commercial fisherman in the rugged crab fisheries of the Bering Sea. His early years on the water sparked a lifelong journey—one that would take him across the globe and into the highest ranks of the maritime world.
After five years sailing with the Alaska Marine Highway as an Able Seaman, Ian pursued advanced training at the Pacific Maritime Institute in Seattle. Through years of dedication, grit, and discipline, he achieved the prestigious Unlimited Tonnage License—an elite credential granting him the authority to captain ships of any size, on any ocean, anywhere in the world.
Ian’s career took him to the decks of Crowley Maritime, where he advanced through the ranks to Second Mate. In 2015, he joined Tote Services, rising to Chief Mate and eventually Master. Over the years, he captained several renowned ships including the Endurance, ARC Integrity, Freedom, Honor, and ARC Commitment. In 2024, he was awarded the distinguished “Order of Magellan” after completing a full circumnavigation of the globe—a milestone few mariners ever achieve.
Despite a career that spanned continents and oceans, Ian remained grounded in what mattered most: community and family. He returned to Tell City, Indiana—his mother’s hometown—and transformed an old brick building into Lock & Keel Pub & Grill. More than a business, it was his dream: a place that brought people together through great food, fresh seafood, and a sense of belonging.
Ian and Claire were married on the shores of Homer, Alaska in 2024, surrounded by loved ones and the landscape that shaped him. Ian’s personality was larger than life—his leadership, warmth, and spirit left an indelible mark on everyone he met.
Though Ian has set sail on his final voyage, his legacy continues. Today, Claire remains at the helm of Lock & Keel, proudly carrying forward the vision they shared. With the same dedication to quality, community, and connection, she ensures that Lock & Keel remains a place where Ian’s spirit lives on in every meal, every gathering, and every memory made.

In Memory of Ian Russell – The Captain
At Lock & Keel, we raise our glasses to many things—but always, and especially, to Ian Russell, lovingly known as The Captain.
Ian wasn’t just the heart behind the bar—he was the soul of this place. His passion for good company, cold drinks, and salty spirit built Lock & Keel into the local landmark it is today. With every laugh shared, every toast made, and every story told, his presence still sails through these walls.
Though he’s no longer at the helm, his legacy lives on—in the warmth of our welcome, the strength of our community, and the everyday joy of gathering with friends.
Here’s to Ian. The Captain. The original anchor of Lock & Keel.
Gone from sight, never from our hearts.
