I visited The Boathouse Bar and Grill for the first time. Here’s what I thought
Most weeks I venture out to test the waters of a new restaurant and pass along the vibes.
But this week I left to seek out a quiet, hidden-away establishment that locals know well. That took me to The Boathouse Bar and Grill in Ocean Springs.
It’s not exactly tucked away and you’ve likely driven by the location dozens of times: squeezed between a fireworks warehouse and the bridge on Washington Street.
The Boathouse is unique — and not just because the upstairs portion is a suite reserved for Airbnb guests — but because, of all the lunch-with-a-view restaurants dotting the Coast, this one boasts one of the very best sightlines.
The only restaurant I’ve visited that rivals this view is Yul’s Place in Biloxi.
There’s a small dining room and bar inside, but if you find a spot outside the proximity to the water is mere feet. The pavilion offers an unobstructed view of Old Fort Bayou, which separates Lower Ocean Springs and St. Martin/Gulf Hills.
There’s even a dock for folks who prefer to use the waterways over the busy highway.
My visit began with an order of Sex with the Captain — which turned out to be a glass of rum, peach schnapps and cranberry juice, but it was still good all the same.
I nearly got the sand bucket of rum for two, but I questioned my ability to write this story afterwards if I went that route.
The appetizer was a Gulf Coast classic: smoked tuna dip. An easy snack and the kitchen didn’t disappoint.
My entree was a mahi sandwhich topped with slaw, pickled onions and lemon dill aioli served with a side of fries. The Boathouse also serves oysters, tacos, flatbreads and seafood platters loaded with crab legs, shrimp, corn and potatoes.
Following my meal I rested in one of the waterside beach chairs under the twisting branches of an Oak Tree. After all, it was the perfect day for it — cold and windy.
Warmer days are on the way, though, and The Boathouse is a beautiful spot to spend an afternoon enjoying good food and even better views.
