STUART – After visiting the Stuart Air Show on a recent Saturday, my guests and I were craving seafood and headed to downtown Stuart. While there are many dining options in that area, we opted for the Boathouse. This nautical themed restaurant seemed the perfect place to chow down on some fresh fish.
The restaurant is located on the St. Lucie River and offers indoor and outdoor seating. The deck is large with plenty of seating and is perfect for watching boats go by. The interior features dark wood tables, block and tackle lighting, plank floors and 2 indoor bars. The atmosphere is light and fun, with coastal vibes.
After perusing the menu, we decided to share the Summerlin’s Smoked Fish Dip. I’m familiar with the name Summerlin’s, which is synonymous with fishing and seafood in this area. The fish dip was fresh and locally made and comes with onions, tomatoes, jalapenos, and warm, crispy wonton chips.
Two of my guests took no time in ordering the Proper Fish and Chips. This entrée came with a large piece of flaky, white Atlantic cod fried in a nicely seasoned, golden tempura batter. This meal came with a generous helping of creamy coleslaw and thick cut French fries. Naturally, this dish went nicely with an ice-cold beer.
Another guest ordered the Mahi Fish Tacos. She had never had mahi-mahi before and was a little nervous. The three soft flour tortillas were each stuffed with a large helping of fresh, grilled mahi, Mexican coleslaw, fire-roasted tomato salsa, guacamole, and cilantro sour cream. She actually loved this mild, flaky fish and was very happy with her choice.
Two of us ordered the French Onion soup. This beautiful cup of soup served in a crock was a delicious herbed seasoned beef broth, roasted onions, topped with a large garlic crouton and thick slabs of ooey-gooey melted cheese with parsley sprinkled on top. The combination of creamy melted cheese and roasted onions was savory and absolutely delicious.
I chose the Maryland Crab Cake appetizer for my meal. I was so pleased to see this large crab cake had no fillers and was simply well seasoned, tender crab meat served on a bed of arugula with a side of delicious remoulade. This is one of the better crab cakes I’ve had, cooked to perfection with a wonderful crunchy outside and soft interior.
Our server, Nicole, was friendly, and was eager to explain the menu, the specials and offered recommendations. We truly enjoyed the easy-going ambience, and while we chose to sit indoors, we still had a great view of the water.
The Boathouse offers appetizers, soups, salads, sushi rolls, handhelds and a nice variety of seafood and, what they call Butcher Block, which are steaks and rack of lamb. Their drink menu includes a nice wine list, and a number of beers and cocktails. They have a Happy Hour Menu, at the bar area only, offered Mon. – Fri. from 2-6 pm. and a lunch and brunch menu.
The Boathouse is located at 49 SW Seminole St., Stuart, FL 34994. Hours of operation are Mon. – Thurs. 11 am – 9 pm; Fri. & Sat. 11 am – 10 pm; and Sun 10 am – 9 pm. Visit their website at www.stuartboathouse.com or call them at 772-266-4586.