Orlando, FL. Zero curb appeal, but amazing food!!!not the cleanest but the food is great!!! Good lakeside views in back daytime to dusk; servers are all petite and wear shorts and black tops; it’s a neighborhood favorite; one tv in the playground area was broadcasting cage fights, tonight there were at least three families with little kids dining here; the first thing you see when you enter the door is a spray bottle and cleaning rag, but did I mention the amazing food!!! The parking lot was, like, down in a hole and part of it wasn’t paved plus it wasn’t that well-lit so don’t bring your 95-year-old granny here who’s prone to falls. But if you like the idea of your favorite uncle who’s a chef inviting you to eat in their trailer home by the lake you’ll absolutely love it here.
So my husband is super picky about restaurants because he was a busboy then short order cook at the Gourmet Fine Dining cafe in La Habra. He said the fried shrimp here were the best he’s ever had: cleaned well, huge, great batter recipe and fried in fresh oil. He also said the hush puppies were the best he’d ever had. The sauces, all made in house, were amazing. He said the cocktail sauce had the perfect amount of horseradish in it. My tartar sauce was full of minced pickles and had weight to it. The collard greens were made from scratch with smoky ham, just a touch of sugar and a touch of vinegar to them: they were fresh, not canned. Great Southern collard greens. His fries were battered; he prefers McDonald’s fries and doesn’t like battered fries but forget about that, this isn’t the French Fry Palace, we came for amazing seafood and their chef delivered!!! Plus I dipped his fries in my tartar sauce and I thought they were hot and fresh and good. I had the Red Fish blackened style with asparagus and collard greens. The seasoning on my blackened fish was spot on, lots of cayenne and magic. They had cupcakes in a refrigerated case by the front, so that was on the menu at $5 each, 5/11/24.
Our server, Delaney, was great! Helpful, got our orders right without writing them down, and smiled as she served us. There was another server with red hair who was also really kind and helpful when I asked where the bathrooms were.
Music was a tad loud with a steady beat: Ed Sheeran, Ariana Grande, Selena Gomez, etc.
The menus were dirty said my husband, the tables have grooves in them; the floor boards were creaking. It’s like your uncle Mitch bought this cute trailer back in the day, put it by the lake and added a sidewalk and paved area in back and a deck on to it on the side. Plus a playground. Uncle Mitch (I’m completely making this up but it’s based on how this place looks) loved surfing and just knew if he made the best food in town this sweet business would fund his retirement years. Well, this site may look rundown in front but it is still thriving and the community is keeping the legacy alive it looks like.
This is a good Orlando small business with...
Read moreThis review is not indicative of the food or service as I have not eaten there. So as you read this, please do not hinge you interest in eating at this restaurant on that. This review is regarding booking a reservation and that only.
I had an awful experience attempting to book at the waterfront for brunch from my organization. I attempted to make the reservation online and I was denied, which I totally understood. I was attempting to book for 8-10 people and most restaurants book in 2 hour blocks for brunch so I assumed that that was the issue. I figured I'd call to make the reservation, which I spoke to a young woman named Rebecca who was nice enough upon our can call. She informed me that they only have booking spots at 11am and 1pm for brunch and I was fine adjusted accordingly.
I then asked her if I could make the reservation for my desired date at 11 where she told me hold on an indefinite hold for 3 minutes and then I was hung up on. Assuming it was a n error and I was accidently disconnected I called back. What I was NOT expecting was to reach Rebecca again, inform her I had been accidently disconnected and then to be immediately hung up on.
I called again assuming there is no way I would just be hung up on for no reason and the moment Rebecca heard my voice, she ended the call. I called again and the phone now went trait to voicemail. Still attempting to provide some kind out out, I asked my husband to contact the waterfront on my behalf and to my surprise, not only was he able complete speak to Rebecca asking all of the same questions, he was actually able to book the reservation with out being disconnected from the call.
This deeply upset me and I feel disrespected. Now in the spirit of providing the benefit of the doubt, I understand that the time that I contacted The waterfront they were experiencing a rush, and perhaps they were also having phone issues. However, that's a mighty awful coincidence being that my husband was able to make the same reservation with no issues. I've never had an issue with waterfront prior, my organization has booked over the phone with waterfront and has never experienced and issue up until this point. I want to say this was a one off fluke, but I believe that this was very purposeful.
While my organization has enjoyed Waterfront in the past, I personally don't feel comfortable going if this is the potential service I...
Read moreAt The Waterfront Restaurant, you will embark on a delightful voyage to a tranquil waterfront sanctuary. This hidden gem's enchanting ambiance will transport you to a tropical oasis, providing a dining experience that is truly unforgettable.
A warm and welcoming staff will greet you upon entering, establishing the tone for your visit. The staff at The Waterfront Restaurant goes above and beyond to ensure that each customer feels welcome and appreciated.
As you nestle into your seat, the mesmerizing atmosphere will captivate you. The Waterfront Restaurant has mastered the art of creating a laid-back atmosphere. As you take in the breathtaking views while sitting by the water, you can't help but experience a sense of peace and let your worries dissolve.
The selection of cocktails at The Waterfront Restaurant is nothing short of exceptional. Each sip is a delightful experience, from fruity and refreshing concoctions to masterfully crafted classics.
Now, let's discuss the cuisine you will be served. The poke bowl is a dish that merits high praise and comes highly recommended.
Notably, The Waterfront Restaurant has a limited number of parking spaces available. Although this may require some planning, the experience inside is well worth the effort. To ensure a stress-free visit, consider carpooling or utilizing alternative transportation options.
In addition to the exceptional cuisine and drink, The Waterfront Restaurant's service is consistently excellent. The staff is not only warm and hospitable, but also well-versed in the menu, ensuring that every aspect of your dining experience is tailored to your...
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