Dock & Dine: 5 Boat-Up Restaurants for Summer Eats

After a hot summer day on Wisconsin’s waters – fishing, tubing, boating, or just soaking up some sun – you’re sure to be ready for a good meal. But it’s not just anywhere that “going out for dinner” means buckling a life jacket instead of a seat belt, and pulling up to a dock instead of a parking lot.

In Wisconsin, a day on the water often means dinner on the water, too – and that’s part of the fun! This summer, boat on up for a bite to eat at these waterfront hotspots.

Sail Loft - Milwaukee

Located in the heart of Milwaukee’s historic Third Ward, Sail Loft is the perfect spot to catch a sunset along the Milwaukee River with your favorite people. Their outdoor patio is the place to be in the summer; enjoy drinks and appetizers with a view and choose dinner from the large menu featuring plenty of seafood. Dive into a plate of lobster ravioli, sip a glass of wine, and watch the waves roll by with your besties in this special city harbor.

Reefpoint Brew House - Racine

Steer your boat towards Reefpoint Brew House in Racine for a summer evening dinner on the patio  surrounded by awesome views of Lake Michigan and the marina below. Offering an impressive selection of local beers, Reefpoint is a great place to connect with friends and family over drinks and a plate of BBQ, slow-smoked daily and topped with your choice of homemade sauces. Stop by for live music on Friday and Saturday nights! 

Gordy's Boat House Bar and Restaurant - Fontana 

Right on the shores of Lake Geneva, Gordy’s Boat House Bar and Restaurant is a must-visit for boaters! Tie up on the pier and head into the Boat House for a delicious meal and a nautical, laid-back atmosphere. Known for its Sunday Bloody Mary bar, Friday fish fry and beautiful views of the lake, Gordy’s is the kind of quintessential place you want to visit after a day on the water– big umbrellas, Adirondack chairs and delicious cuisine best shared with friends and family.

And what summer day on the boat is complete without ice cream? Stop right next door at Gordy’s Surf Shack for an old-fashioned scoop.

Blue Bayou Inn - Manitowish Waters

Dock your boat at the Blue Bayou Inn for a Northwoods spin on classic New Orleans Creole and Cajun food. The menu and atmosphere are a bit classier than your typical dockside eatery, so you’ll want to leave the bathing suit on the boat. Regulars love the crawfish etouffee and jambalaya, and if you’re feeling adventurous, try the alligator bites! For a more casual drink or appetizer with friends, relax on the lakeside deck or in the adjoining Steamboat Lounge. 

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