The Boathouse on Naples Bay is one of our Favorites. Lovely views with outdoor seating available. Lively vibe. Friendly servers. My husband & I went there to celebrate Valentine's Day and arrived to a packed house by 4 pm. Valet Parking at the front door....The hostess told us it would be an hour wait, so we ordered drinks at the bar while we waited. My husband said they had the best Sangria he's ever had, mixed right in front of us with lots of fresh fruit, served in a carafe over ice. It was enough to fill the wine glass twice.
The time passed quickly as we chatted with friendly people at the bar, and then we were seated at an outdoor table.
Our beautiful server, Jackie, was slamming busy but didn't miss a beat. She was still very patient with us, answered all my questions, took the time to ask the chef my question about the local fish of the day, and delivered excellent service.
Fresh warm rolls with butter were served very quickly. The appetizers were great; the smoked salmon plate was almost enough for a meal! My husband ordered the Chilean Sea Bass which was AMAZING, cooked perfectly, and it was delicious. I selected a fish I've never had before, Trigger Fish, which was also cooked perfectly and well seasoned. I chose to have it prepared Sicilian Style, topped with bread crumbs and fresh garlic & herbs. I found theTrigger Fish to be similar to Rainbow Trout, a thinner fish with mild flavor. It was very good. My Cesar salad dressing was delicious, salty the way I like it. And the sweet potato fries were fabulous.
I was very pleased and impressed that even on what surely was one of their busiest days of the year, every seat in the restaurant filled, that they still managed to do such a great job in every way. Perfectly prepared food, excellent, friendly service. It was a pleasure in every way, a very memorable Valentines's Day experience.
(I'd also like to mention to any boaters out there that I've arrived by boat in the past, docked right in back of the Boathouse, which is fun and convenient. You can even call ahead and they will deliver your take-out order to your boat. Kinda cool. 😎)More