A Port Orchard landmark, Tweten’s Lighthouse Restaurant, recently changed hands — but stayed in the family.
   A venerable institution, the waterfront restaurant has been in the capable and experienced hands of the Tweten family of restaurateurs since it opened in the early 1980s. South Kitsap’s first really upscale eatery was originally owned by Frank Tweten and his brother Kirby, along with their father.
   Frank Tweten also owns the Clubhouse Grill on the top of Mile Hill in Port Orchard and the Clubhouse Grill on 6th Avenue, just across the Narrows Bridge in Tacoma.
   Kirby Tweten, who also owns the Harvester in Gig Harbor, took control of the Lighthouse in the 1990s, buying out his brother’s interest. However, he recently sold his interest in the restaurant to his other brother, Tim Tweten.
   Tim Tweten also owns some other notable landmark restaurants, including the Harvester in downtown Tacoma and the Poodle Dog in Fife.
   Tim Tweten has implemented a number of changes to the restaurant, including the name change to simply “The Lighthouse,” a new chef and an expanded menu. Most of the experienced, and popular staff has been retained, with a few newcomers added.
   He has also slated the building for a major remodel of the interior, which will include a second enclosed VIP dining area, a new floor plan, and an expanded and updated kitchen. Plans for the renovation are posted inside the entryway for all to see. He also is updating and replacing all of the restaurant basics — like china, silverware, glassware and more.
   “This is a great location, a great facility and has a long established and loyal clientele,” said Tim Tweten. “It’s my goal to expand the clientele by taking it to the next level and making it a place people want to come to for the food, the atmosphere and to just enjoy a great dining experience.”
   The Lighthouse can be reached at (360) 876-8464.