Boathouse at the Riverside

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606 reviews

#17 of 1,121 Restaurants in Fort Lauderdale$$ - $$$, American, Seafood, Vegetarian friendly

+1 954-377-5494+ Add website

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Hours

Sun

11:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Mon

11:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Tue

11:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Wed

11:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Thu

11:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Fri

11:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Sat

11:00 AM - 10:00 PM

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What is Travelers’ Choice?

Tripadvisor gives a Travelers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travelers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.

Ratings and reviews

4.5

606 reviews

#17 of 1,121 Restaurants in Fort Lauderdale

Travelers' Choice 2024

RATINGS

Food

Service

Value

Atmosphere

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CUISINES

American, Seafood, Grill

Special Diets

Vegetarian friendly, Vegan options, Gluten free options

Meals

Lunch, Dinner, Brunch, Drinks

features

Location and contact

620 SE 4th St Across from the Riverside Hotel, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301-2215

+1 954-377-5494

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Does this restaurant offer table service?

Yes

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About

Boathouse at the Riverside is a local riverfront gem in the heart of Fort Lauderdale’s lively Las Olas district. We offer a variety of small, medium, and large plates in a a casual, family friendly atmosphere. Our bar is inside/outside, has 35 seats, and offers the perfect environment for locals and travelers alike to enjoy handcrafted cocktails, beer and wine in a community setting. Whether you are looking to grab a quick bite, or wine and dine on the waterfront, Boathouse has something to fit your eye. For Reservations Visit | https://bit.ly/3oE7IR6

CUISINES

American, Seafood, Grill

Special Diets

Vegetarian friendly, Vegan options, Gluten free options

Meals

Lunch, Dinner, Brunch, Drinks

FEATURES

Takeout, Reservations, Outdoor Seating, Seating, Parking Available, Street Parking, Valet Parking, Television, Highchairs Available, Wheelchair Accessible, Serves Alcohol, Full Bar, Wine and Beer, Free Wifi, Accepts Credit Cards, Table Service, Live Music, Waterfront, Dog Friendly, Gift Cards Available

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4.5

606 reviews

Excellent

453

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Average

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Terrible

wes p

Boston80 contributions

Busy Monday Night

Feb 2020 • none

We, two couples, enjoyed our evening of casual dinning by the river on their nice patio. Pricing and portions were fine. I have only constructive suggestions that would make.things even more pleasant. First, our server would be better with more training regarding the menu, when asked basic questions, she was not able to help. The sides on the sandwiches should be improved while giving the customer the choice. Perhaps coleslaw, sweet potato fries or chopped salad could be offered. Also, we got an up charge of $3 when one of use wanted a change in the bread used on the sandwich, which is inexcusable, and done for dietary reasons. These issues took away from an otherwise fun time. Also, they get high marks for free valet parking, just get the slip validated when paying the bill.

Written February 4, 2020

This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

dobrikowh

Dear wes p, We appreciate your feedback and certainly we will continue our training efforts of the new team members. Sorry about the misunderstanding of the upcharge. Come try us again and contact our restaurant GM, Scott Keller, for your next reservation: skeller@riversidehotel.com. Have a delightful day, Heiko Dobrikow EVP - The Las Olas Company GM - Riverside Hotel

Written November 27, 2020

This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

AYeber

1 contribution

Jason’s Birthday Celebration

Jan 2020 • family

We had several appetizers (hummus, guac, fish dip, tomato basil flat bread and the mushroom flat bread) and they were amazing!! Definitely recommend the fish dip and mushroom flatbread those were my personal favorites!. The service is really good and our waitress was really consistent with making sure our large party was taken care of with beverage refills and anything else we needed. I had the swordfish entree with the risotto and it was unbelievable!!! Perfect balance of flavors and fish was cooked perfectly. Not to mention the beautiful setting right on the water side. And unlike most places in Miami, parking is easy with valet and complimentary if you dine here. We were here for my husbands birthday with family and friends but this restaurant is also romantic and perfect for date night! Nice bar and drinks were made well! Oh and I have to give the highest compliments to the head chef Juan who gave us the most perfect memorable experience here. He really took care of us and we appreciated it so much!! We will definitely be returning :)

Written January 31, 2020

Wander57712796989

Thanks AYeber, we appreciate you taking time to write this amazing review. Chef Juan has done an unbelievable job with the menu. Our cooks execute the menu effortlessly. Thanks for visiting hope to see you soon. Scott Keller Manager Boathouse

Written February 2, 2020

This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Harl3yR1d3r

Estero601 contributions

Had me at mussels & tequila!

Jan 2020 • none

All you can eat mussels conjures pre-conceived notions of buffet fare, BUT not here! Some of the best I’ve had anywhere with a wonderfully spiced broth using harissa in white wine. Full disclosure: had three bowls of them! My tequila/watermelon/citrus cocktail using Maestro Dobel was so good I also had one as dessert. Riverside dining at New River gave great views. Service couldn’t have been more efficient or friendly (shoutout to Ariana!!). A great experience! Only downside was no room left to sample any of the good sounding tapas on the menu! Guess I’m coming back next trip to town.

Written January 8, 2020

dobrikowh

Dear Harl3yR1d3r, hello fellow Harley Rider...we appreciate you spotting by and providing kudos to Ariana. She is a gem. Keep the rubber side down and ride safe. Have a delightful day, Heiko Dobrikow EVP - The Las Olas Company GM - Riverside Hotel

Written November 27, 2020

This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Leilani W

Willoughby28 contributions

Very nice spot but not so nice staff

May 2021 • none

The only reason I am giving this review an Average score is because the Barge burger I ordered was absolutely delish and very decently priced. Also the bar manager Glennford was a pleasure and very welcoming. I wish I could say the same for the happy hour staff that took over after Glennford time was up. 2 ladies and one guy named Michael... Michael deliberately ignored me and my party while we were trying to order more drinks, literally looked me in my face as if it wasn't his job to take drink orders. I actually thought it wasn't his job until I saw him taking the other patrons orders with no problem. The other 2 ladies as well looked like you were bothering them when you asked to place an order for drinks. We wanted to stay and have more drinks because the atmosphere was very chill but I refuse to spend my money where I was made to feel not welcomed. I had them close my tab out and we left. Too bad Glennford was off the clock because we would have spent our money with him until they closed that day.

Written June 2, 2021

Wander57712796989

657Leilaniw, thank you so much for your visit. I apologize that the bar was not attentive to your needs. I will address this issue with the bartenders and rectify the situation. I hope you will try us again. thanks Scott Keller Boathouse Manager

Written June 4, 2021

This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

TinyLizardHat

5 contributions

Honestly not the same.

Jan 2021 • couples

The management, I think his name was Seth or Scott or something was absolutely rude. The food came out tasting basically stale and the drinks took forever. I used to love this place and Riverside but it just isn't the same.

Written January 27, 2021

Laurie S

Westminster13 contributions

Vacation

Jul 2021 • couples

The restaurant was beautiful, the food was great however the staff was absolutely rude. I kept thinking “really, this is who they have representing this great place…” We we’re referred by a parking attendant near Las Olas, so we took his advice. The young lady took my name and was very honest about our long wait time & suggested the outdoor bar. The bartender was over the top rude. She asked us for our order and turned and walked away before we could answer. Another took our order after 10 minutes, we sat at one of the out side benches and the first bartender walked over and started to wipe the table and was throwing the food scraps left on the table in our directions. We said nothing, I guess our group of 4 was in shock. We finally got to be seated outdoors and what a beautiful view and Robyn our waitress seemed as if we were just there to bother her as we ordered our drinks and we had had plenty of time to review the menu we were all ready to order however she was not going to take our order until she was ready. When all was ordered and eaten we had been there approximately 4 plus hours. No matter how Fantastic the food is I refuse to put up with cafe/ diner style service. There are so many wonderful restaurants in Fort Lauderdale and vicinity and because of the terrible service I will never expose myself to this place again.

Written July 7, 2021

Wander57712796989

Hello Lauries 152, I am a little confused with your review? Could you please confirm this was the Boathouse at the Riverside. I don't have outdoor benches to sit at and I do not have a server named Robyn. If this is a true review for us I am appalled by how you were mistreated. This of course is not how we train our staff and I apologize. A review of this nature needs more investigation. If you could let me know when your visit was and an approximate time please I would like to address these issue with the appropriate team members. In now way do I want this behavior to continue. I appreciate any additional help you are able to provide. A receipt would be helpful. thanks Scott Keller Boathouse General Manager

Written July 9, 2021

This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Jgdutyfree

Fort Lauderdale91 contributions

Come for the view and the ambiance.

Feb 2020 • none

This beautifully located restaurant at the rear of the riverside hotel has a stylish open bar which opens up into a waterside restaurant.. Without question it is one of the prettiest locations in Fort Lauderdale. The menu is extensive; and they serve brunch with a choice of bottomless Mimosa’s or Bloody Mary’s over the weekend. There are just two problems ! The menu is extensive but the food doesn’t live up to the environment. The chicken legs appetizer was tough and served cold. Other appetizers were cold, and the main course dishes had shuddered a similar fare. The presentation of the food was amateurish, and it was hard to find a server on the boat dock. Definitely needs some management attention!

Written February 24, 2020

dobrikowh

Hi Jgdutyfree, brunch is one of our most popular meal periods. We will continue approve the food presentation. Have a delightful day, Heiko Dobrikow EVP - The Las Olas Company GM - Riverside Hotel

Written November 27, 2020

This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Linda B

Hollywood9 contributions

Ambience is amazing...Food not so much

Sep 2021 • none

I was excited to go to the Boathouse, but sadly, it did not meet "my" expectations. While the waitress was vey attentive and friendly, but the food lacked flavor. I am a Cesar Salad snob, they don't make their own croutons nor did they have fresh ground black pepper (maybe because of the pandemic?). I had the hanger steak to which I ordered Med-Rare and came out "mooing". Our waitress kindly took it away and brought a new plate. It lacked seasoning, not hot (enough to my liking), just basic. Overall, I loved the ambience and service, just not crazy about the food. I am particular, so I can see how others rated this establishment so high. Oh, I parked in the "Public Parking", did not see any limited times; sadly, I received a $40 parking ticket @ 8:26pm. What the???

Written September 10, 2021

Wander57712796989

Good Afternoon Linda B Thank you for dining with us. We will definitely take your critique into consideration. We apologize for the Hanger Steak not coming to the table at the right temperature. We appreciate all feedback. Boathouse Supervisor Terrence

Written September 16, 2021

This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

lovetravelanytime

130 contributions

Underwhelming, overhyped

Apr 2021 • none

I called to make reservations for 2 and was told they weren't taking any, but we were welcome to walk in. We arrived at 6:30 and were told it would be an 1 hour 15 wait, so we put our names in and went down to the water with our drinks. About 45 minutes into our wait, 3 tables on the waterfront opened up and sat empty for another 40 minutes while we waited. By an hour and a half we were getting annoyed and went to the front desk to see why the extra delay when numerous tables sat empty. Honestly, if you are fully booked why tell people to walk in? It was our 1st time and that was a turn off. Food was alright, nothing special. The Brie app was skimpy, but not bad. The risotto was quite good, but swordfish was a bit dry and didn't taste like any swordfish I had ever eaten. Hubby's short rib meal was OK. The server was very sweet and did a good job when we were finally seated almost 2 hours later! We ordered a bottle of wine and asked if we could get a decanter, told yes, but never arrived. Not sure I'd ever go here again with all the great places we have in town. Salt7 has much better food, and even on a busy night they seem to be much more organized.

Written April 10, 2021

Wander57712796989

Hello Lovetravel anytime, So sorry for your experience not ideal visit, we will be working on our execution. thanks for your visit Scott Keller Boathouse Manager

Written April 13, 2021

This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Ztown

New York City6 contributions

After checking in we decided

Feb 2021 • none

After checking in we decided to have lunch at the restaurant. We sat at the bar and ordered drinks and asked for a menu. The waiter gave us our drinks and menu and then waited on other patrons at the bar and in the restaurant. It appeared that they do not have a bartender but the servers make their own drinks and wait on the own tables. We got tired of waiting so we asked two other servers to help us and take our order. They said they couldn’t but would tell our server we wanted food. When he finally showed up, ha said he did not know we wanted food. I said you gave us menus and we are in a hurry. He then went to the register, on the opposite side of the bar and his back was to us and told us to shout out our order at him so he could put it in the computer and eliminate talking directly to us and writing it down. This was a first. My wife ordered a salad with blackened shrimp and dressing on the side and I ordered a basic burger with no onions and fries. She got a salad soaked in dressing with cold shrimp and I got their premium burger with fried onions, bacon and other stuff plus chips. I tried one chip and it was greasy and rubbery. We tried to get the attention of our server but he was out waiting on tables so we asked for a manager. The manager showed up immediately followed by our server. We tried to explain what happened and the server argued with us about what we ordered. The manager said that we apparently did not like any of the food we ordered. Obviously he wasn’t listening to us. I said we will pay for the drinks and not the food and left. This was one of the worst experiences we had at a restaurant and would not eat there again.

Written February 18, 2021

Wander57712796989

Hello Scott, I apologize for your experience at the Boathouse. It sounds like we needed more help. I will investigate and we will get more help. thanks for letting us know. Scott Keller Boathouse Manager

Written February 18, 2021

This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Ron S

Weston1034 contributions

This place is an amazing find

Sep 2020 • none

This place is an amazing find in Downtown FTL and right on the river with great views and a vibe that is just right for weekend meal with your family. We had house made potato chips and a grilled octopus for apps. Great portion on the octopus and very good flavor. We ordered a bucket of beers ($15 for 5 Domestic and $20 imports). Good selection and okay to mix and match. So cool and great value! We had a just right size burger with pistachio crusted Brussels sprouts... both so good!! My wife had the Chicken Paillard which came with nice healthy salad and veggies. Perfectly cooked and flavored. Paella, Brie on crostini and surf and turf skewers rounded out our meal. 4 of us with drinks and apps ate for $100 all in. The view is so lovely and lots of people watching. Servers and runners were all very warm. They were very mindful of food safety and spacing tables out. Great Job! Love this place and highly recommend.

Written September 8, 2020

dobrikowh

Dear Ron S, thrilled to see that you had a great experience at our Boathouse. Come back soon. Have a delightful day, Heiko Dobrikow EVP - The Las Olas Company GM - Riverside Hotel

Written November 27, 2020

This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Natalie W

Katy220 contributions

Nice little place on the water

Aug 2021 • family

We really enjoyed our dinner here. It’s part of the Riverside Hotel, but it doesn’t feel like it, which is nice. Waitresses were friendly and very attentive. Some in masks; some are not. It was a Tuesday evening so not too crowded and we were seated right away. Requested a table on the water and they were able to accommodate. Nice to watch the boats go by! The food was good and reasonably priced for being a restaurant on the water. I had the Barge Burger and the candied bacon was on point!! All the meals comes with chips and it costs $3 to add fries to your meal, which always bugs me but they were good! They give you the chips too, ha! They also have seating up on a deck behind the waterfront seating that is more shaded with fans and bar area seating. Enjoy!

Written August 11, 2021

Wander57712796989

MsNatWright Thank you for your feedback. We are glad to hear you enjoyed yourself. Thank you again for joining us at the Boathouse of Riverside Boathouse Supervisor Terrence

Written August 16, 2021

This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Laura G

Las Vegas11 contributions

Awesome service

Jul 2020 • couples

Enjoyed a very relaxing dinner at Boathouse at the Riverside! We sat at a table on the pier, very enjoyable watching all the boats going by. Paige was our waitress and really made our dinner the best. While she had to go up and down the steps to bring us drinks (3 times) appetizers, dinner and dessert, she made sure we enjoyed each course. We had reservations else where and very glad we canceled and went to this restaurant. We will be back and ask to sit in Paige section! We had the Brussels sprouts, delicious. Fish tacos very good. I had the Salmon and my husband had the crusted Swordfish (recommended) and very good. We also shared the Brownie dessert, nice finish to our dinner! Thanks for a relaxing night!

Written July 18, 2020

dobrikowh

Dear Laura G, Paige is truly a gem and one of our patrons favorite. Come back soon. Have a delightful day, Heiko Dobrikow EVP - The Las Olas Company GM - Riverside Hotel

Written November 27, 2020

This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Stephen R

Wellington3069 contributions

Enjoyable Experience

Sep 2020 • none

It's nice to be able to say the location, ambiance, food and service were all excellent. We sat outside, under cover, with views of the river. Luckily we arrived around 6 pm (it ends at 6:30), so were able to partake in the HAPPY HOUR Specials, which means half price drinks and wine. $3 for a bottle of Blue Moon. My spouse and I shared an order of Tuna Takaki, $14, as a appetizer, which was appealing in presentation and taste. I had the Hanger Steak, $23, for my entrée. It was a more than adequate 8 ounce portion, perfectly cooked , tender and juicy. It was accompanied by brussels sprouts which had honey and pistachios, and grilled potatoes with garlic and parmesan. Delicious. My spouse had the Roasted Halibut, $22, arriving on pesto and surrounded by corn succotash. He enjoyed it all. For dessert we shared their delicious brownie as well as another fruity, creamy, coconut dessert. Service was personable and very good as well. We look forward to returning in the near future,

Written September 27, 2020

Wander57712796989

Stephen, what a fantastic review. We appreciate you taking the time to let us know how we are doing. I thank you for your visit, and can't wait to see you again. Happy Travels, Scott Keller Boathouse Manager

Written September 29, 2020

This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Seb

2 contributions

The service and the ambience!

Feb 2021 • friends

Went to the Boathouse for a friend’s birthday. Our server was Drew and she was a DREAM. So kind and so efficient. We had drinks, food, spilled some water (oops) and she got her team to help us quickly. Great experience with the staff. The food was also delicious and it’s a lovely atmosphere with greenery and boats passing by the outdoor seating. 10/10 would recommend.

Written February 24, 2021

Wander57712796989

Seb, thanks so much for the review. We think Drew is the best. appreicate your continued support. Scott Keller Boathouse Manager

Written March 2, 2021

This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

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