Full, detailed review below, but first a NOTE TO MANAGEMENT: What the heck is "dinner bread"? That's what our server said as she placed the basket on our table 1 minute before entrees were served. At this point, we had been in your restaurant for an hour with a round of cocktails and 2 finished appetizers. If you see a table with impatient, hungry child please serve bread and butter as soon as the drinks have been ordered. To receive this right before entrees are brought out is just wasteful and even a bit insulting. Just not at all what you expect from a fine dining establishment and given the amount of money we spent. Seemed like a tactic to get you to buy their appetizers, which the adults at our table were going to order any way. Children can be picky however. At least ask if the table would like bread/butter as soon as the appetizer order is placed. I have never experienced anything like this at a restaurant nor have my party guests and we were all a bit surprised by it--not in a good way. Perhaps, don't carry/serve bread and butter at all rather than using this odd approach! What we ordered: - 1 Tuna Tartar appetizer - 2 Crab Cake appetizers - 2 Draft IPAs - 1 French 75 - 2 Cajun Linguine - 1 Mahi Mahi - 1 Kids meal Chicken Quesadilla PROS: - We had a reservation for 5:45 and were seated promptly upon arrival - My French 75 cocktail was tasty, but could have been colder or served in a chilled glass to combat the temperature inside the dining room - Crab cakes seemed fresh not frozen, but otherwise not impressive. See in Cons notes below. - Tuna tartar was excellent and fresh, definitely my favorite item and I would recommend it if you dine here - Ambience of the delta king river boat is quaint and charming - Overall spice and flavor of the Cajun Linguine were great, although pretty salty. Maybe no salt is needed in the pasta water because the sauce has enough? - Kids meal was a large amount of food for the price, it could've fed an adult. Didn't taste this, however. CONS: - No A/C or not working properly. I felt bad for the staff wearing long sleeve black shirts in 90° heat when they couldn't keep at least the dining areas cool. I feel like the heat affected their service and attentiveness. My toddler was struggling to keep cool and this made her more impatient to receive food, hence bread offered earlier would have been nice. - Draft Beer ordered by my husband and father were served not very cold and within minutes reached room temp due to the lack A/C. - Service was slow. Yes it was Father's Day, but they were not as packed as I expected for a holiday. I was able to make a last minute reservation. Our dining area had 3 servers and could have been managed by 2 given they only had 6-7 occupied tables our entire time there. - No small plates were brought to the table until after 5 minutes after appetizers arrived and we had to ask for them. Crab cake temperature dropped quickly because of this and it's not exactly a finger food you can eat without a fork and plate especially when sharing. Would have loved to try it warm as intended. - Crab cakes were not bad, but not great either. At 10.00 dollars a piece I was disappointed it tasted almost like a tuna patty, but fishier. And these got soggy & cold by the time we had small plates brought to us to eat them. Would not get these again. - Our used silverware were taken away when they cleared our appetizer plates and we were not told to hang onto our forks, nor were they replaced, so we didn't have any forks when the entrees came and had to ask for some more. - Husband's Mahi Mahi was bland - We were never checked on by our server to see how our meal was after we started eating, nor were we asked if we would like to order another round of beverages and didn't even have our waters topped off. - We had to flag down our server to bring us boxes and our check. I would've expected her to come by at least once before that and see if we'd like to see a dessert a menu, not no. Unfortunately, I do not recommend the Pilothouse Restaurant to anyone based off this first experience that cost us around 200.00 dollars plus tip. I've been a server for many years in more casual dining & know you can get a better experience at a bjs, yard house, elephant bar, etc. which have strict corporate standards and server training. I gave 2 stars for the French 75, Tuna Tartar, and Cajun Linguine. Without those, I'd rate this place 0.5-1 stars for what we spent compared to the service and quality of food/drinks received. read more

Pilothouse Restaurant - Crab Cakes - New American Near Me - Sacramento, California

Discovered Pilothouse whilst on a trip to Sacramento and the fact that it's on a large boat, immediately drew me in! The service after being seated was really slow and slightly passive aggressive. Even after I mentioned we needed to catch a flight soon. We ordered simple foods and even those took a while. Pricing was fair, food taste was okay, nothing special. It was a nice breeze outside but I feel it would hinder enjoyment of the food. Overall concept and location were worth seeing, maybe some drinks! read more

There were wasps all over the tables harassing us the whole time we ate. Service was terribly slow. Items were missing from my spicy sandwich. I witnessed a waitress spill aioli on a customer. Trays of food to bring to customers were right next to the women's restroom door. Table next to us got a white claw that has residue all over the rim. It's taken us 20+ minutes to get the check. I would never recommend this restaurant to anyone. The views are not worth it especially for the price point. read more

We decided to try it in spite of its mixed reviews and we are glad that we did! On the top deck of the ship Delta King (also a hotel) sits the Pilothouse Restaurant with a grand view. It was a wee bit too chilly for us to sit outside, so the three of us were quickly seated inside in a booth. A children's menu with crayons showed up immediately. We ordered a mix of adult and kids items: salad, sandwich, fish and chips. Every thing was fresh and hot. Prices are reasonable too, at least as compared to the Bay Area! The bartender, Aaron, was very attentive and his support team was excellent. Highly recommended. read more

The food was pretty horrible. The bread for the grilled cheese sandwiches was totally burned, my kids had a hard time biting into them. I ordered the chicken club, and the chicken was burned and just tasted like crap. The french fries were also super dry. The place needs a deep clean and a facelift! Staff was nice though, and I loved their cocktails! read more

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So I never knew there was a restaurant and bar inside the Delta King. Decided to go here for my birthday for dinner and give it a try. I have to say this place is pretty romantic for date night with nice views. Food was delicious btw. We were in no rush so having one waitress serving 3 tables was not a problem. Plus she was very nice and hustled! The wait for food took about 20-25 mins-which is reasonable since I ordered chicken and the waitress did politely mention it to me it takes longer to cook. I even got a birthday card from Delta and a free birthday dessert of my choice. We definitely will be going back to try breakfast and lunch! read more

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I really enjoyed dine downtown menu. I got the soup which was absolutely amazing! When we got to the restaurant we were the only people in the restaurant. I really enjoyed the ambience and our servers were great! That seafood Spanish risotto was the most flavorful risotto I've ever had! And that dessert was so rich and tart from the blood orange. I would definitely recommend going. read more

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The restaurant looked like any other boat restaurant. Has some good options... BUT when the food comes, your mind is blown! The sandwiches are phenomenal, the salads are upscale and delicious and so refreshing ! I would fly here for the calamari steak sandwich! It's that good. Think poboy but calamari. read more

Such an amazing place to have a meal in! Watching the beautiful view of the river with all the boats floating on it and enjoying your meal is something to look forward to it. The food is great, fresh, and delicious. I got the shrimp salad and my friend got a sandwich I believe but I don't remember which one; nonetheless the food tasted amazing!! The service was really nice and the waitress was very friendly and helpful! I look forward to going back again! read more

Pilothouse Restaurant - Shrimp Louie Salad, - New American Near Me - Sacramento, California

This will encompass thinner and breakable, and the pre dinner drink at the bar. Bartender was prompt, polite and accommodating. Decent selection of top shelf if you wish.. Dinner was disappointing..the clam chowder was bland and luke warm, I opted for just appetizers so I had the calamari, which was over cooked, and most likely in old oil.. I personally do not like chili peppers on my seafood, to much heat. I didn't eat the calamari past a few bites. The dipping sauce seemed to be just flavored mayo. Breakfast was really good, of course ours was the first of the morning. I has their king omelette, just a tad much spinach for me but otherwise great portion..country potatoes were good, but obviously precooked and kept under a warmer. The thick cut bacon was not thick.. The eggs Benedict was pretty decent, liked the thick cut ham slices, eggs were cooked as ordered. I would probably not just come here for the food, but was convenient if staying on the Delta King. But pricey, but it is CA.. read more

Pilothouse Restaurant - New American Near Me - Sacramento, California

We had reservations for the Pilothouse on the 4th of July and had a great time. The restaurant is a bit dated, but the food was delicious. It was the perfect location to watch fireworks for the holiday. The only downside was that parking was difficult on such a crowded day. read more

We went for a late lunch. The staff were friendly and the view was pretty. The food was overpriced and not very good. We had the calamari sandwich, spicy chicken sandwich, fish and chips and a chicken Caesar salad. It was average-definitely not worth the price. read more

Came for Restaurant Week and was told "Oh that doesn't start until 5pm" no where is that stated! Here for my birthday and already disappointed. Husband's clam chowder was luke warm, Brussel Sprouts good but dip is just mayonnaise with bits of bacon. Fish and chips are eh. Cajun linguine was tasty but serving is small. Won't recommend or be back, very disappointed Service was the only good thing read more

DON'T WASTE YOUR $ AND TIME. . Our server was a nice lady who was left alone to handle the entire section by herself. The manager, who was clearly bored walking around without offering to help her. The soup came out cold, we asked for bread when we sat down came out with the meal 50 minutes later. The salmon came out cold and the risotto was so plasticy. It was made hours ago and plated later. Overall the food was below average (compared to the price) and most dishes came out cold. Don't waste your appetite here. This place has a nice atmosphere outside and inside read more

Pilothouse Restaurant - Salmon with plastic risotto. - New American Near Me - Sacramento, California

Came here for brunch on a warmer morning and was so pleased to see there's lots of shady spots to sit and eat or indoor dining available. The views outside are really great and the hostesses and waitresses are super friendly and helpful. We got the Hurricane cocktail which was delicious & strong, two bowls of clam chowder, and then the filet mignon and chicken club. All the food was SO good, we forgot to take pictures first. We will absolutely be coming back here very soon ! read more

Pilothouse Restaurant - Hurricane Cocktail - New American Near Me - Sacramento, California

Lovely dining room. It was quiet, the tables spaced out and the food was amazing. Service was very fast but drinks took awhile.

My wife wanted to come here for awhile so I took her for not only Valentines Day but also her 60th birthday. The kitchen ruined a milestone birthday. We ordered a starter and my entree and soup came 1st. The soup was COLD. I asked about the starter and that came out hot. My wife and I ate that and it was delicious. I did not want to eat my entree without my wife's food still missing. An hour later my wife's burger came but that was also cold and the fries too. The staff was very polite and apologetic for what was happening. We boxed up our meal and was told that our next meal would be free. The manager came and told us that this meal was free. When I asked about any future free meal she told us to call back after 5:00pm any day after this incident. The restaurant was not busy at the time of our reservation and the older couple next to us was in the same situation. I could only guess how the dinner service went that unfortunate Valentine's Day. We will never get back a milestone event and experience. Thanks to the kitchen at this restaurant. The wait staff get 5 stars for all they did for us that day. read more

This is our second time At the Pilothouse. Love the nostalgia of the boat and view of the river. Fist tim here food was good as was service. We are in the bar area Service very was friendly and is the best part of the experience. Food not memorable mediocre at best. My food came Cold, sent it back and came back Cold Again. Not horrible but we won't be returning for dinner anytime Soon. We are in that area frequently so Might return for drinks and appetizers. Fried calamari amd shrimp cocktails are good. Service is again 5 star and the servers are fun as well. read more

We stayed at the Delta King and kept it simple and had dinner at this lovely establishment. We were seated and unfortunately the table was still dirty... Jelly all over the table. I was immediately nervous after that. They were short staffed and Aaron, the bartender, took our order. He was awesome! There's a limited number of fish and chips, so that narrowed our pescatarian lifestyle to the salmon dinner and salad. It was delicious! The bread was killer and I could eat that all day! One thing that I could say is that the patrons should never know how bad management is doing. One waitress stated that she was "about to lose her shit" and looked like she was about to cry. They are understaffed and it was verbalized by everyone. I could empathize with needing more hands, but make sure you vent over some cocktails without customers. You take away from the nice evening other people are trying to have. Aaron tried to send the girl on break but she insisted on continuing her shift while complaining. I feel for you. Don't forget to breath. I hope they hire more bussers (that's what they wanted) also when the host seats a new table it should be on listed on a sheet so the waitresses know that they are new customers. Some of the patrons on the deck outside were seated without service for over 10 minutes. I'd return because the food was good and Aaron made the night. read more

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I don't understand the bad reviews. My kids and I have a lovely experience here. The food was great. The service was warm and professional. And what a fun setting: you're on board the historical Old Sacramento's riverboat: the Delta King! All of the tables have a view of the river and there's beautiful natural light and you can hear the waves slapping the boat as you eat. Just go for the experience! read more

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The food and the service did not match the ambiance. They sliced the asparagus in half! I have never seen that. The Shrimp Louie was not fresh. read more

The fish n chips were extremely small fish for $24! Very disappointing the portion size for the high price! We ordered appetizer shrimp cocktail for 2 people only FOUR shrimp with a TON of sauce! The ratios are way off with this eatery! The French dip and a jus was BLAND! The only thing that had flavor was the peach margarita and the hurricane rum concoction. We tried to enjoy our anniversary with a nice meal and that did NOT happen! read more

Went for Mother's Day brunch and it was not good. A lot of the food was cold, they had plain pieces of bread (not toasted) sitting out, no jelly or butter. No dressings for the salad, no crackers for the cheese trays, when I asked for them, it took 15 minutes to get some. The prime rib was so raw and bloody. The desserts were so plain they could have gone to Costco to get better. You had to get your own coffee and tea, even though they added 22% tip. I literally left hungry and had to go eat after paying so much for a meal. I would never recommend this place. read more

We had lunch at a two-top by a window and later appetizers and drinks at the bar. The food and service were better than expected. We had fun. The Chop Salad (awesome dressing) and Flatbread Pizza were perfect and tasty as can be. Bar-side we enjoyed the Ahi Tartare and Spanish Mushrooms along with our cocktails. Both are excellent and I'd recommend these strongly! (We nearly liked the mushroom plate clean...) Staff was attentive and fun adding to the casual atmosphere of an intimate bar on a boat. Go check this place out. read more

Was phoned by staff at 5:04. Apparently this was because we were 4 minutes behind our 5 pm reservation! (We're actually on premises 90 seconds from the restaurant door. Can't say I've received a checkup phone call. Really?!?!. ) It's now after 7 pm and our entrees have still not arrived!. We're told the delay is because there a party of 26. We're only a party of 12 and ---apparently--- don't count?!?! Travel regularly and fly weekly... lots of restaurants, reservations and serve: good, bad but not this ridiculous. PS This was Easter but long after Easter brunch. Reservation was at 5. Only 3 other tables! Feel free but don't expect your reservations to be honored! Don Barthel read more

Cora was the best waitress very helpful and prompt, food was great and so was the service thank you cora

We attempted to have lunch at the Pilothouse today only to be turned away because they had a big party coming in and wouldn't be able to accommodate us for over 2 hours. There was no indication the restaurant was "closed" although that word was never used when we were talking to the hostess. The restaurant was literally empty. Who knows how many people actually got turned away today and because of that will never return. A simple sign indicating the entire restaurant had been booked for the day would have been the courteous thing to do. I, nor any of my family, will ever attempt to eat there again. We found a wonderful restaurant nearby that gladly seated us promptly and courteously. read more

We hesitantly tried this restaurant, and were very pleased with our experience! This was very old school, but extremely well done. The decor and atmosphere is just so fun and different. The food was all delicious, down to the butter on the bread. Like I said, kind of old school food, but we were really happy with it. The service was pretty slow, but as we had nowhere to be it was not a problem and we enjoyed just hanging out and watching the water. I will say, if we had not been seated on the side with the river and had been on the dock side, I'm not sure we would have enjoyed it as much. read more

Lovely food, service and ambience at the Pilothouse restaurant. Excellent service during dinner and breakfast from Cora who was always professional, kind, and attentive. We spent four days on the Delta King during a recent visit from San Francisco and had a unique and lovely time. read more

Stayed on the boat,so thought eating dinner here would be easy. The food was amazeballs. I had the pork chop,mashed potato's and broccoli and hubby had salmon quinoa. My pork serving was ginormous! Best pork chop I've literally ever had in my life! Anyways. My server was amazing. But can't remember his name. Bar was packed,so we sat at a waterside table. Bathrooms are clean. read more

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Absolutely LOVED this place. COVID-safe as far as staff all wearing masks, customers wearing masks when walking around, outdoor seating, lots of breeze. The menu is small and direct, which is actually nice. In fact, the wine list is two pages while the menu is just one! Got an incredible seat outside with an unobstructed view of the water. Our waiter had a great temperament, was so knowledgeable about the menu, and made wonderful suggestions when we asked questions. Food was fantastic and portion sizes were right. Had the swordfish - done just perfectly. For how nice this meal was, there wasn't a wait and the price was perfect. read more

Pilothouse Restaurant - New American Near Me - Sacramento, California

Ugghhh...hate giving not-so-good reviews. Ordered a crab salad sandwich and it came with fries. The crab had 'refrigerator taste' and the fries were 'dry' and ok. The waitperson was less-than-happy today. This person didn't smile once. Was very curt and seemed like maybe it was a bad day(?) I'll give that to someone that we don't all have great days all the time. However, in my world, you need to put that aside, and do your job. Part of your job as a waitperson is to make people feel like you're actually happy that we're there. Never got that once from this waitperson. As our waitperson was bringing the waters to our table, I immediately asked for 'no ice.' There was absolutely no emotion as this person took the water away to bring me one with no ice. I said 'thank you' and got no response! (wth)... Waitpersons make their money on tips. They are supposed to make you feel welcomed, if nothing else. I know they aren't there to entertain me. And yet, their demeanor makes a huge difference to my experience of that particular establishment. This person got a D. The ambiance was good, as we got to sit outside and the weather was 'perfect.' The place was not crowded when we arrived, so we got to pick our spot. That was the best part. read more

Got the fish and chips. The fish was good and not over cooked. Fries were thick and good also. Got a lemon drop, wasn't the best one I had and also not much alcohol. The chichi drinks were good and was probably our tables favorite drink. The man forgot his name seated us and was there for a while. Possibly the host? He was funny and really nice and attentive guy. Sadly our waitress was not the same. She seemed stressed and we did split checks and I felt like she also had a hard time getting everyone's order right. Didn't feel so welcoming and easy with her. We had a table with an Amazing view of the river. Appreciated that they let us decorate the table for my sisters bday. I would come here again. read more

Pilothouse Restaurant - Crispy fried chicken thigh - New American Near Me - Sacramento, California

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Around 7pm, it took about 5 minutes to be sat. Every employee that passed us ensured we were greeted and openly communicated the short wait. We asked for the best seating, and were given a beautiful view of the Sacramento River at sunset. Our bartender/server Aaron was impeccably well-versed in both the food menu & how to pair the food options with cocktails & wine. So clearly experienced in his profession, he took our order and perfectly timed our courses without even recording them on paper! He ran the bar for the entire restaurant while waiting on multiple tables without breaking a sweat. Aaron is clearly an asset to the Pilothouse, whether for his ability to craft a drink for a patrons palate or educate his guests on the experience their meal will present. Aaron worked seamlessly with his team, ensuring every guest was well accommodated. Not sure if he's a manager or just extremely well-adjusted to the responsibilities that come with running a bar, but with 15 years of restaurant experience, he floats through his shift with apparent ease. The food was of the same caliber as the service: phenomenal. The mushroom appetizer was so flavorful that we asked for a bread basket to finish it. The roasted beet salad was well balanced and had a beautiful crispy sweet potato addition. The ribeye was perfectly cooked to the requested temperature and the salmon was SO flavorful and flaky. For dessert, we finished with crème brûlée and a walnut crusted chocolate decadence. They were complete opposites in flavor, but both soo delicious! Definitely a must stop for a high quality without a stuffy and intimidating experience. read more

September 17, 2022 Update any comments one thousand two hundred twenty eight! Previous has fifteen votes! Located on Delta King Ship in the Old Town Sacra! Child menu I liked chicken tenders! Three pieces, choice fries, fruit, or vegetables. It is small fruit cup. Better than fries! Choice of drink, milk is good. Unlike another restaurant in Old Town Sacra, they did not try confiscate my bottled water given to me from the hotel! read more

Pilothouse Restaurant - Child menu. Tried July 18, 2022 picture sent September 17, 2022. - New American Near Me - Sacramento, California

A lots of empty tables but we can't be seated because they only have THREE waiters in the restaurant in a Saturday lunch period.

To begin with, I left a message to make a reservation and a very nice woman with a thick accent called me back. She was wonderful. I didn't get her name which is why I wanted to identify her accent. Friendly, thorough and asked if we were celebrating anything. I said yes please. It's my dads birthday. She said they would provide him with a dessert and sing happy birthday. We arrived early and had a drink in the bar. They were busy In the bar as they were hosting a murder mystery dinner. Promptly at 6 we made our way to the host stand and waited. No one was there to greet us. After 5 minutes a young guy asked me my name and then immediately sat us. I whispered to him that I had made arrangements for my dad to get a birthday dessert. He did not respond. Another woman who seemed experienced introduced herself and said she would be back with water and to take our drink order. About 15 minutes later a server named Mariah approached and took our order. I had thought she was the busser but asked her name and told her it was my dads birthday. She said nothing and walked away. The food was disgusting. The salad had droplets of dressing, the flatbread was covered in unidentifiable cheese that was dripping grease and the pesto was runny and chunky which made the entire crust soggy. We were ignored throughout the meal even though we were one of four occupied tables. I think she kept going outside to smoke or hang out with coworkers. Eventually, Mariah brought us the check. I asked about the birthday dessert and she said oh you can have a free dessert. I told her that I wanted it to be a surprise and she looked at me like I had 3 heads. She brought a menu and gave it to my dad. He settled on cheesecake. I asked if she was going to put a candle on it and she said "if you want one". She brought over the dessert along with a lighter. For a second I thought she was going to have my dad light his own candle. Then she handed it to me to light. I do not blame the server, she obviously doesn't know how to earn a tip or provide outstanding customer service. She needs training and to work on her communication skills. We had Thanksgiving here a couple of years ago and it was nice but then again it was a buffet and didn't require much service. They comped the flatbread which I give credit for them having the good sense to do so. No do over for me. Way overpriced. Not to mention Old town at night has a Lackluster vibe. We should have gone to Scotts. Sacramento needs to step up their game. read more

We went for dinner on 12/24. The place looked amazing, service was good. I ordered the Shrimp Louie as my entree. Tasted fine but within a couple hours I had food poisoning. It's the only thing it could have been. Missed Christmas Day entirely. read more

Launched a new menu today, I think it was to increase prices. Chicken club is good but not amazing for &19. The view from outside seating is really amazing and peaceful! We will be back! read more

Pilothouse Restaurant - Menu - New American Near Me - Sacramento, California

Great location in old Sacramento,parking available in garage or meter parking it's a short walk to restaurant.Stanley are waiter was helpful and attentive.Food was great and atmosphere was quiet and romantic being in the belly of a ship .Drinks are great ,menu was Xmas menu food was more expensive and less offering.Definitely get a window seat if you go ,nice lounge upstairs for drinks or to watch a game .Will return soon read more

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