The Boat House, Lambertville — Restaurant in Lambertville

4 1/2 stars

This is my new favorite place in Lambertville. My top tier chums and I had about half an hour to kill before our dinner reservations, so we stopped here first to kill some time and have a nip. After a few minutes, we called up the restaurant and pushed our reservations back - if that's not a ringing endorsement of this establishment, I don't know what is.

We came here last Saturday around 5:30pm. One of my chums had done a bit of research on potential spots beforehand (we didn't do a lot of that, but it paid off here), and thought I'd like it because of the kitsch and the hidden gem appeal. It has both of those in droves. I grew up about 20 minutes north of Lambertville, and it was...odd to have trouble locating a business. After a few minutes of furrowing our brows at Google Maps, we figured it out and found it behind another business - but be aware that there are NO signs for this place. You have to earn your navigation badge into this establishment for sure. My first impression upon sitting down in their outdoor section was that it reminded me of some of the fun beachy dive bars in Folly Beach, SC (think Chico Feo, if you're familiar with that area) - it definitely has a South, mellow vibe going for it. We were waited on by I assume one of the proprietors (a striking resemblance to Mia Farrow), who was attentive and easy to hail down when needed.

We all selected items from the cocktail menu, which was probably half classics (think Old Fashioneds and Margaritas) and then half edgier stuff. I of course went for the edgy, and selected (I THINK) the Cottager. I noticed a fellow patron several feet away sipping one and decided that I too needed to sip on something purple. It was pretty good; honestly though, it tasted a LITTLE too much like Snuggle detergent, so I just can't commit to a full-throated endorsement here. And no, I really don't have a clue what specific ingredient would have created that taste, but also keep in mind we're not 100% positive that's the drink I had either.

Before we left, one of my chums went to use the bathroom. When she came back she told me I HAD to go inside and get a look around. Boy. There's a lot to take in. It certainly does feel like a boathouse, and without the proprietor pointing me in the right direction, I don't have a clue how long it would have taken to find the bathroom (which sort of feels like a speakeasy within a speakeasy situation). The bathroom was up in the attic/loft area, and like everything else in the building is absolutely covered with nautical-themed shizzle. I enjoyed gazing upon a picture of Tom Cruise and Paul Newman out on a little boat, which presumably was taken while they were filming The Color of Money (1986).

I'm absolutely coming back, but I might set my sights on a cocktail that doesn't remind me of...

Let me start by saying I don't often write reviews, but when I come across a true gem, I can't help but share. This place isn’t just a hidden gem—it's more like a diamond.

Nestled along the beautiful canal walk in Lambertville, NJ, the atmosphere is quiet, quaint, and incredibly inviting. The moment you step in, you feel at ease, and the ambiance sets the perfect tone for a relaxing evening.

The service is exceptional—attentive, friendly, and efficient without being overbearing. Every staff member made us feel welcomed and well taken care of.

One standout feature (besides EVERYTHING!!!)is their charming side HOUSE, which can be rented for private events. It even has its own bar, which adds a special touch and gives you a more intimate experience.

A huge thank you to the team for letting me and my family host our event at your establishment. We truly had a wonderful time and will most definitely be returning.

Highly recommend this spot to anyone looking for great service, a fantastic atmosphere, and an all-around unforgettable...

Arrived at The Boathouse for a drink with my wife. We were seated outside on the patio. Waited approximately 20 minutes for a server to come out to serve us and nobody ever came out. There was probably 5-10 guests at the time in the entire restaurant. We got up and left. Went back again this weekend with a group of 11 adults (45-60 year olds) for a drink at about 9:30 PM. When we arrived she asked how many people in our party. We told her 11 people. She said that was too many people to seat. We let her know that we could split our group up 5-6 at two tables. She said, "absolutely not, too many people in your party." We left and went on with our evening. In this poor economy I am not sure how you can turn away 11 people that want to spend $8-15 each on a drink. If there is a manager or owner out there, please let us know if this is common practice. Really...