11 September, 2025
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Dock-and-Dine Restaurants Every Food Traveler Should Try
Savor delicious meals at waterfront restaurants you can reach by boat, from
Michigan to California. Enjoy great food paired with stunning views of the water.
There’s something special about pulling up to a restaurant by boat, tying off at the
dock, and stepping straight into a place that smells like great food and good times.
Dock-and-dine restaurants bring together two simple pleasures, boating and eating,
into one memorable experience.
Whether it’s fresh seafood, Southern comfort, or creative cocktails, these waterfront
spots make the most of great views and even better menus. Here are a few standout restaurants every food traveler should try, from the Great Lakes to the West
Coast.
The Southerner – Saugatuck, Michigan
Right on the Kalamazoo River, The Southerner serves Southern comfort food with a
local twist. Shrimp and grits, fried chicken, and cocktails made with Michigan spirits
are on the menu.
Boaters can dock just a few steps from the outdoor deck, where views of the water add to the relaxed vibe. It’s a favorite stop for those exploring the best boating areas on Lake Michigan, and it’s easy to see why.
The Cannery – Newport Beach, California
The Cannery has been a go-to for seafood lovers arriving by land or water for
decades. The harbor setting makes it easy to pull up in a boat and enjoy everything
from fish tacos to bottomless mimosas. Weekend brunch is especially popular, and
the views of yachts passing by add a bit of fancy excitement to every meal.
Alley Cat Oyster Bar – Cleveland, Ohio
Located in the city’s historic Flats district, Alley Cat offers a coastal-style experience
in the heart of the Midwest. The raw bar features oysters flown in daily, and the
menu includes fresh seafood dishes with plenty of variety. With easy dock access
and a lively riverside setting, it’s a fun and flavorful stop along the Cuyahoga River.
The Oasis – Lake Travis, Texas
Known as the “Sunset Capital of Texas,” The Oasis overlooks Lake Travis with multi-
level decks that catch every bit of the evening glow. The menu ranges from Tex-Mex
to Gulf seafood, and boaters can tie up at the slips which accommodate watercrafts
of all types and sizes. The space works well for anything from a quiet meal to a full
group gathering.
From the calm waters of Michigan to the sunny decks of Texas, these are
restaurants every food traveler should try. Each one offers great food, welcoming
docks, and a view that easily beats any dining room wall. Planning a weekend on the
water? Add one of these spots to your route, grab a few friends, and make the meal
part of the adventure.
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