Portside Pub & Eatery — Restaurant in Rideau Lakes

Today was my first visit to Portside Pub. Right from the moment we walked in we were welcomed by our server Neve. She was cheery and friendly. We decided to sit on the patio, but I soon decided I didn't want to stay there (being a former server, I disliked when folks would switch tables) Neve was 1000% accommodating to my request to switch tables. I was meeting a friend I hadn't visited in a while so we were very chatty and took forever to order our meal, she checked in on us periodically; and we never once felt rushed or like we were a burden. She was pleasant to deal with, was very attentive to us (without being a helicopter server) we always had drinks in front of us. 10/10 Neve! you made our experience amazing.

Now on to the atmosphere, there was a live performer there today, the music was tasteful, at a perfect volume to add ambiance to the room but not loud and obnoxious that you had to raise your voice to speak to the people around you. The dining room was clean, and at a perfect temperature (in my opinion).

I used the washroom while I was there; it was very clean and well stocked (the hand soap smelled amazing).

Next the food. I had the fish and chips; my friend had fish and the house salad. The food was out on the table in what felt like minutes, piping hot and cooked to perfection. I am very picky with my fish, this was incredible. The fries were delicious, the house salad appeared to be wonderful ( who eats salad with fish though...lol). I also decided to indulge on the Pink Pony Strawberry Mimosa because well why not!! This is the first mimosa I've had, It was delicious! although a little on the pricy side ($11.00) I'd defiantly have another one or two ;) the next time I am there.

Over all an absolutely wonderful experience. I would definitely recommend if you haven't been, start the car!!! great place to be and they are an inclusive space for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, so that added an extra star for me.

Thanks Portside! Keep up the good work!! I will...

During my visit to Portside Pub & Eatery, I had the pleasure of enjoying the Smoky Cheddar Bacon Burger as my main course. The burger exceeded expectations: the patty was perfectly seared, offering a satisfying crispiness, as was the bacon – both full of flavor and expertly prepared. The accompanying fries were exceptional – crisp, golden, and well-seasoned. In hindsight, I almost regretted not opting for the poutine, as the fries alone suggested it would have been outstanding.

The pricing is more than fair given the high quality of the food and the overall dining experience.

For dessert, I chose the Sticky Toffee Pudding, which was equally impressive. It was rich, moist, and perfectly balanced in sweetness – a delightful way to end the meal.

The service deserves special mention: we were warmly welcomed with a genuine smile, and the staff remained attentive throughout. Orders were taken promptly, and the food arrived in a timely manner without feeling rushed.

Overall, Portside offers an excellent combination of well-prepared dishes, fair pricing, and friendly, efficient service. I would gladly return and can wholeheartedly recommend this establishment to anyone seeking a high-quality dining experience in a relaxed yet...

Went a second time - still top marks all round! Enjoyed the mushroom bruschetta, again, plus the Steak Sandwich (so very tender, tasty and perfectly cooked) and the Squash Ravioli (omg it's to die for). We even had room for dessert (peanut butter chocolate deliciousness). Yum, yum, yum! So glad we have a place with this high quality of food and service right here.

We had a delicious meal - mushroom bruschetta to die for, perfectly tender and crispy calamari as apps and shared the generous portion of fish and chips. The fish was crispy, lightly battered and perfectly cooked. The homemade sauces for the calamari and for the fish were both excellent - nice touches. Delicious greens and roasted peppers with a light and tasty dressing accompanied the calamari.

Service was friendly and attentive. We were made to feel very welcome by all the staff.

It's a loud environment so don't plan on going there for a quiet conversation, or maybe any conversation.

Overall, it's a great place and a very welcome addition to the area....