Charlie's Boat Yard — Restaurant in Buffalo

If you’re looking for a fantastic waterfront dining experience in Buffalo, Charlie’s Boat Yard is a must-visit. Situated right on Lake Erie, this casual restaurant offers incredible views and a laid-back atmosphere that perfectly complements its location.

From the moment I arrived, I could tell that Charlie’s Boat Yard was all about the waterfront vibe. The outdoor patio was definitely the highlight for me, offering spectacular views of the marina and Lake Erie. If you love watching the sunset, this spot is ideal—you can relax with a drink and enjoy the view while boats come and go from the docks. The interior continues the nautical theme, but if the weather’s good, I’d recommend sitting outside to take full advantage of the lakefront setting.

When it comes to the food, Charlie’s has a great mix of American classics and seafood. I started with their fish tacos, which were fresh and flavorful. They offer both broiled and fried seafood options, so you can choose your style. For those who aren’t seafood fans, there are plenty of other options too—like burgers and salads. The lobster roll is another favorite, especially if you’re in the mood for something a little lighter but still filling.

They also have a full bar, and their selection of local beers pairs perfectly with the seafood. If you’re visiting on a warm day, a cocktail on the patio really completes the experience.

One thing I found really unique about Charlie’s is that it’s boater-friendly. If you’re out on the lake, you can actually dock your boat and stop in for a meal. It’s such a convenient option for boaters, and it adds to the whole lakefront charm of the place.

If you enjoy live music, Charlie’s hosts performances during the summer months. When I visited on a weekend, there was a live band playing, which added to the lively, fun atmosphere. It’s the kind of place where you can easily spend an evening soaking up the sun, listening to music, and enjoying great food and drinks.

I also noticed that the restaurant is very family-friendly. They offer a kids’ menu, and the overall atmosphere is relaxed enough that it’s a great option for families who want to spend some time by the water without feeling rushed.

One thing to note is that Charlie’s operates seasonally, mainly during the warmer months. If you’re planning a visit, I’d recommend going between spring and early fall to really get the best experience. Buffalo summers are short, so it’s a prime spot to take advantage of the limited warm weather!

Overall, Charlie’s Boat Yard offers everything you’d want from a waterfront restaurant—good food, stunning views, and a lively atmosphere. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite after a day on the lake or looking for a relaxing dinner spot with live music, Charlie’s delivers. It’s an ideal spot to soak in Buffalo’s waterfront, especially during the summer months.

If you’re in the Buffalo area and love seafood or simply want to enjoy a casual meal by the water, I’d highly recommend checking out...

Nice place to hang out by the water. Great summer destination. My only complaint is they seem to have a policy of kicking people out of an outdoor table when other people come in. We were there maybe an hour - hour and a half and had just finished dinner. Someone came over with menus and new customers to seat with them already and asked us to move so they could seat new people (while new people were standing at our table) I think this is a very bad policy. I would totally understand if people were just sitting and taking up tables but we were just finishing up our drinks after just finishing dinner and paying over a $100 tab for 2 people. It would not keep us from going back but I thought it was quite rude. I don't blame the worker. The girl said she was just following what they tell her to do. It's just a note that hopefully management or owners would see to maybe change your policy going forward and my main reason to not make it a five-star location. Also we went another time and were TOLD we need to pay the tab because our waitresses was leaving.. It was in a bit of a rude manner the way we were "asked" that bothered us. I know it's busy in the summer and maybe you aren't hurting for business but you might want to think about how you are handling customers especially people who are buying food and drinks. We have been there 3 separate times (all mid-week none on a weekend) and the food has always been good, not off the charts but decent and we will certainly be back. Honestly though without the location I don't think you would be in business long sorry to say. I think you need a much friendlier staff to start. I can certainly see a scenario where we might choose to go elsewhere if we wanted to sit and relax with a drink after dinner which you clearly can't do here unless you want to stand. We certainly weren't loitering and if you're willing to pay for food and drinks you should be able to sit at your table and relax...or at least finish your drinks. We were asked to vacate our table as soon as our bill was paid before we even finished our drinks. The whole point of being at a place like this is a relaxing setting. That's just my point of view. I have been on the other side where you are waiting on tables and you have people sitting for hours. I would understand then but that wasn't the case either time. I am updating now after reading other reviews...same issue other people noted so I would NOT recommend going if you want to relax by the water with drinks.. Great for a quick bite I guess. Also I notice a lack of response from owners or management so I guess policy is to turn tables quick and don't care about the...

Showed up on a Tuesday at almost 6pm exactly, it was 90 degrees and sunny, approximately 30% of the tables were full. I was celebrating some recent accomplishments at work with my husband... We had paid for a babysitter. When we showed up we were promptly seated on the patio by request and the server was prepared for us with menus. Elizabeth immediately asked for our drink orders, was clearly annoyed when we asked for water but only upon request delivered a beer and wine menu. When she returned she took our food and beer order(6:15 pm) Everything seemed great, the beer was delivered promptly (6:20 pm) and the wait for the chef prepared food was timely(6:50 pm), a third party delivered our food and again upon request the third party delivered our forks. Not silverware, forks. All condiments needed to be requested as well. About ten minutes after the food, forks and condiments were delivered Elizabeth arrived again to take another beer order(7:05 pm). About fifteen minutes later(7:20pm) (and I'm being generous) the fresh beer arrived. The food was tasty and we ate every last bite. Almost as soon as the food had been finished our server cleared the table and delivered the bill which we paid immediately without even a moments delay... Still... Seems like somewhat efficient service right? At 7:35 while sitting and finishing the last delivered beer (from 7:20 pm) Elizabeth returns and says verbatim "I don't mean to be rude, but if you're just going to drink could you please move over to the bar now?" ........ Holy Crow's! Are you joking? I can't even finish my beverage without being rushed out of the seat I just spent $45 in?!... I walked out immediately and calmly noticing not only was there empty tables all around me but there wasn't a single person, couple or family waiting for a table.... Shame on you for opening an establishment where people can't sit and enjoy the last of their beverage AFTER paying the bill, without being shooed out of their seats by the wait staff. I will NEVER dine or drink here again nor will I refer any business associates...