Boathouse At The Riverside

Overview

Boathouse At The Riverside sits directly on the New River at 620 SE 4th St, just steps from Las Olas Boulevard in the heart of Fort Lauderdale. The setting is the headliner here – a dramatic waterfront deck where yachts drift past and the river traffic keeps things interesting from the first drink to the last bite. The kitchen runs a New American menu with Mediterranean touches, and the seafood leans strong: regulars call out the fish dip appetizer for its smooth, rich flavor, the ahi tuna tortilla platter with a standout marinade, and a shrimp scampi pasta that has turned first-time visitors into repeat guests. The branzino draws praise, and specials like a steak-and-shrimp duo deliver when the regular menu feels too familiar. Lighter options hold up too – the crab and corn soup, flatbreads, and a chef salad with salmon all land well for anyone not chasing a full entree. For dessert, the chocolate cake gets enthusiastic nods. The bar program covers serious ground with a full cocktail list, a well-regarded bourbon selection, local craft beers, and a wine list deep enough to justify the wine-bar designation. Happy hour runs with half-off drinks, making that waterfront seat even easier to justify on a weekday. Service is a consistent bright spot – guests name specific servers across multiple visits and still report the same attentive, genuinely warm treatment, which speaks to strong floor management. The crowd skews broad: business lunches, birthday dinners, solo diners at the bar, tourist couples fresh off the airport, and groups celebrating together. The vibe reads casual-romantic with a trendy edge – cozy enough for a date, relaxed enough for a dog at your feet on the patio. Reservations are recommended for brunch, lunch, and dinner alike, especially on weekends. Street parking is limited, but a public garage nearby handles weekday visits without much trouble. The free water taxi stops right outside, making Boathouse an easy add to a river loop.

Good to know

• Rating: 4.3/5 from 2,336 Google reviews
• Price: $$
• Best for: Waterfront Date Night, Happy Hour Cocktails, Business Lunch, Group Celebrations, Solo Dining At Bar, Dog Friendly Patio
• Features: Happy Hour, Outdoor Seating, LGBTQ+, Dog Friendly

Hours