Nicole S.
Yelp
The patty melt is divine. It's two smashed beef patties with caramelized onions and provolone, layered between two slices of marble rye. Thick and juicy and wonderful.
We had a good time at Boathouse, but you should probably know a few things. First, this restaurant gets extremely busy. It's located in Forest Park, a popular St. Louis park, so it's always hopping. They have patio seating, which overlooks the lake, and which, if you choose this seating over the regular indoor restaurant seating, might get you seated quicker. I don't know why, but that's the way they function here. However, patio seating means you don't have a designated server, and you will need to order at the outdoor bar. The outdoor bar is located outside (of course) and around the corner from where all of the tables are located. After you order, they will bring you your food, calling out your name as they look upon the tables, hoping they spot you. This food-ordering system was fine for me and my family, but for people looking for a typical restaurant experience, you might want to opt to sit inside.
The parking lot is small. Depending on the day and time you visit, expect to circle a few times before either finding a precious parking space or giving up and parking on the street. There's lots of street parking around Forest Park.
If you sit on the patio, which overlooks the lake, you'll see lots of water fowl. Boathouse has a little bird food dispenser near the bar, so it would be in your best interest to send someone to get a cupful of pellets to throw into the water for the ducks (and fish) that visit. It's like dinner and a show.
Also, if you sit on the patio and they're busy, expect to wait a bit. We waited at least 30 minutes from the time we ordered until we got our food.
The music they were playing on the patio was very good: a few deep cuts and also well-known favorites. I don't know who picks the music here, but I see you and appreciate your effort.
They have a kids' menu here, and fresh fruit is an option, just FYI.
Basically, if you're visiting during the warmer weather months, bring some patience.