The Boathouse at Rocketts Landing

483

847

462

2 years ago

What a beautiful restaurant! I must return during the day to really enjoy the view. It was a Saturday night during my visit. Service was exceptional! Malbec was my drink of the evening. There was only 1 on the menu. It was tasty, I ordered 2. For starters, we opted for the clam chowder. It was very tasty, very chowder-like, instead of soupy - which I like. It featured bacon, I could taste the clams but it really, really tasted more like loaded baked potato soup. The bacon, onions and clams overpowered the clams, maybe it needed more. Still! I'd order it again! For my entree I went with the broiled seafood platter (crab cake, scallops and shrimp) with mashed potatoes and asparagus. Highly recommend! Perfect amount of one bay, lemon, butter, just scrumptious! Noted that it was not a lump crab cake, more so backfin but I'm a fan of backfin crab cakes so no complaints. Plus, it was such a nice size! My friend went with the shrimp tacos. They were delicious!!! I'd gladly order those again also. Zero complaints. Date night, girls night, large party friendly! Highly recommend! read more

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Whitney L.

9 months ago

Jesse at the bar was amazing. The best lemon drop I've ever tasted!! Super fun and an Amazing evening with my guy read more

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John Paul C.

2 months ago

The food was very good. Not blow your socks off good, but good. our waitress, CeeCee was great. Very friendly and attentive. [[HIGHLIGHT]]we bad great seats by the window with a nice view of the river.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] We will definitely be back. read more

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Dan S.

524

1609

1455

2 years ago

So let's start with the positive: love the views and the location. The interior is bright with terrific sights of the river. And then there's the meal. When you have to wait over 70 minutes for food, it better be amazing. It's not. This felt very standard fare. The fries were the frozen type and not very flavorful. The rockfish with rice? The fish was kinda chewy and the rice just lacking anything special. My dining companion did enjoy the crab cake sandwich. But clearly this place is aiming for something more. And it just missed the mark. The kitchen on a Tuesday night has to do better than just letting customers wait over an hour for so so food. Disappointed. read more

The Boathouse at Rocketts Landing - Rockfish - Seafood Near Me - Richmond, Virginia

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Shannon J.

2 months ago

[[HIGHLIGHT]]The ambiance is great.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]The view is beautiful!![[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] And Sincere, our waiter, was above and beyond! read more

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Beth S.

2 months ago

The food was really good and the service was terrific. Brianna gave us the royal treatment. Just moved to Richmond and found one of our favorite dining spots. read more

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Carla C.

2 months ago

Went to the Boathouse for happy hour. Jordan was our server and gave us great recommendations and service. We had oysters, crab cakes and the dynamite shrimp. Everything was delicious. I recommend the tequila drink. read more

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Yvonne M.

Elite 24

340

1050

2213

1 year ago

I went to the boathouse for a work training and it had a beautiful view of the water where our room was. It had nice patio areas where you can sit, and a big bar area inside. The food was pre-ordered so we couldn't just choose off the regular menu u so I didn't get a chance to try anything I would have wanted, so I went with a spicy chicken sandwich with chips. It was okay. Not spicy at all though, I was expecting something with a kick, but it was just regular. The flavor was still good, just not spicy. The chips were just okay, I would have preferred fries, but as I said we had to choose was a menu with just a few choices exclusively for the event. I would have to go back again to really get a feel for the place. read more

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Fallyn G.

354

283

1317

2 years ago

The Boathouse in Richmond is the perfect spot for lunch on a beautiful day. Nestled by the water on the river, it offers a calming and relaxing ambiance. There's not a bad seat in the restaurant, whether you're inside with the big windows, outside by the bar under complete shade, or on the patio. Our server was attentive and offered great recommendations for lunch. The food was tasty and flavorful. While the crabcake wasn't a traditional Maryland crabcake, its unique preparation was very enjoyable. The highlight of the meal was my favorite dessert, the cookie palooza, which did not disappoint. After your meal, be sure to take a walk by the river to walk off the food or visit Belle Isle for some fun in the river to keep cool in the sun. read more

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Joey W.

151

1338

3399

2 years ago

Came here for dinner which was recommended by a coworker. The service was a little slow because there was only one server for our half of the restaurant. Boathouse crab cakes - the crab cakes were very good. They were crispy on the outside and fell apart enough to see there was actually crab meat on the inside. I subbed the mash for spinach but the spinach was a bit salty. The asparagus was a bit burnt but overall this dish was pretty good. If it weren't for the vegetable quality, I would've easily given this spot more stars. read more

The Boathouse at Rocketts Landing - Menu 3/2024 - Seafood Near Me - Richmond, Virginia

The Boathouse at Rocketts Landing - Boathouse crab cakes - Seafood Near Me - Richmond, Virginia

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Ricky T.

10 months ago

Outstanding food, drinks, service and a view! Highly recommend this classy joint. Service from Luke, Breanna and Matt read more

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Mark B.

2 months ago

Sincere was not only the premier server she was more like a life coach. The food was almost as good as the service

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Scott C.

2 months ago

[[HIGHLIGHT]]Great food and ambience.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Our server, Jaden, was terrific. [[HIGHLIGHT]]Food selection, pressed coffee, views[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] read more

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Evangeline K.

11 months ago

The food was amazing! The view of the James was gorgeous. Our waitress. Trinity was so incredibly nice! I would totally recommend for dinner parties for any occasion! read more

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Uzma N.

1 year ago

Took my parents to the boathouse when they were visiting Richmond and they absolutely loved it. It was a great way to show them the river while also enjoying a great meal. The waffle was by far the best brunch item of everything we ordered. The staff were so friendly and attentive. I would definitely go back to try their dinner The views are beautiful and the prices for brunch were quite affordable read more

The Boathouse at Rocketts Landing - The view - Seafood Near Me - Richmond, Virginia

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Margie M.

1 year ago

Food was fabulous. Tinea was great server. Everything was tasty and good portion. Was a bit warm with sun setting but still great atmosphere. Can't wait to come back when cooler weather and sit outside. read more

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The Boathouse at Rocketts Landing - Broiled Seafood Combination - Seafood Near Me - Richmond, Virginia

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Meredyth N.

2 months ago

excellent service. Brianna was great. [[HIGHLIGHT]]good atmosphere with lovely view of the river.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] zucchini chips delicious and enjoyed the complementary anniversary cake, read more

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Sarah R.

6 months ago

This place is amazing! We came here for my husband's birthday and as always, they were outstanding. Thomas was our waiter and Holly was our bartender and they went above and beyond in every aspect.! we will definitely be back!! read more

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Tom C.

127

198

1 year ago

People come here for the view and service. Menu and price points are designed for celebrations and events. Family and friends all enjoyed the atmosphere with good parking. read more

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Amil H.

3 months ago

Jordan's service was amazing! I will keep coming back and I will be sure to tell my friends about this place!!!

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Robin B.

1 year ago

I love going to the Boathouse for happy hour. They have great seafood except for the class on the half shell, they are very tiny. The drinks are on point waitstaff is friendly and the view is serene. read more

The Boathouse at Rocketts Landing - Artichoke and crab - Seafood Near Me - Richmond, Virginia

The Boathouse at Rocketts Landing - Fried oysters - Seafood Near Me - Richmond, Virginia

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J C.

122

4 months ago

Tonight was my first time here. I had a few appetizers and the crab cakes, all lovely. Amazing view as well! Staff up front were professional and exuded fine dining experience. My server, Michelle, was amazing. She was there precisely when needed, but gave us space when she wasn't, which I think is the pinnacle of elevated dining. She anticipated needs and took care of them. I will definitely be back. read more

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Falcon R.

8 months ago

Popped in for happy hour and apps at the bar. Blood orange whiskey sour and margaritas were excellent. Hush puppies with the house spicy dip delicious too! Bartenders were friendly, courteous, and attentive. Friendly patrons as well. We arrived at opening time on a Wednesday afternoon and seating at the bar filled quickly. A good time... read more

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Troy B.

Elite 26 All-Star

161

710

1965

3 years ago

This place is not what it used to be. Pros- I found a parking spot and we were seated on time. That is the end of the pros. Cons- Food was a little below average to average. The service was horrific!! And dont forget the mandatory 20% gratuity. I think that means that they can do what little they want. Some examples- drinks from the bar were very slow. About 15-20 min for a wine and bourbon on ice. We went the last half of the meal with no water on the table. Waiter never came by to ask or fill that up. My wife ordered a shrimp and crabcake dinner. It came out with no crabcake... had to get up and hunt the waiter down. Then we had to ask for our checks twice(second time i got up to ask him) and the bills still came to us wrong. We fixed it amongst ourselves as the 4 of us just wanted out. It will be a long time before I go back. read more

The Boathouse at Rocketts Landing - View from inside - Seafood Near Me - Richmond, Virginia

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Anna N.

8 months ago

Zhane was AMAZING!!! Best service I've ever had! Her recommendations were great and everything tasted amazing

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Marquiese B.

1 year ago

The food is delicious the drinks are on point. Went for happy hour the place was crowded but we were seated quickly. read more

The Boathouse at Rocketts Landing - Artichoke and crab dip - Seafood Near Me - Richmond, Virginia

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Madison W.

105

112

1 year ago

Amazing views - but make a reservation for the patio! We did, but there was some confusion and the poor hostesses had no idea what to do when someone was seated at our table. We enjoyed drinks, oysters, soup, a burger, and the crab cake sandwich. I left feeling full bit not heavy. The blueberry basil smash was delicious and well balanced. I understand why coworkers recommended it! Watching the sun set on the James River was incredible. read more

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Cee C.

8 months ago

We came into this establishment on Saturday and trinity was my server. Hands down the best experience I had at the boathouse in rockets landing. The management came by and spoke and they were super professional and overall just extremely happy. Highly recommend read more

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Pamela H.

1 year ago

Breanna at the bar served us during Happy Hour. She was attentive and engaging. She even remembered how I like some fruit in my Prosecco! The Happy Hour Fried Shrimp is always cooked to perfection. I like to request the spicy aioli with mine instead of the cocktail sauce, and I am always accommodated. Great and affordable Happy Hour menu, and the view of the James at Rocketts Landnever disappoints! file: read more

The Boathouse at Rocketts Landing - Prosecco with cherry accents - Seafood Near Me - Richmond, Virginia

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Ellen F.

Elite 24

7 months ago

Everything was delicious! Between our party, we had: fried oysters, filet mignon, and the broiled seafood platter. For drinks, we had wine, beer and cocktails. Sugar Cookie drink was yummy! The clove drink is really clove-y, so be warned. All of the food was perfect. Would definitely return. Service was excellent / thanks, Matt! read more

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Harrison C.

277

492

2 years ago

I went to the rockets landing location for a birthday brunch this past week and it was great! The server CeeCee was great! She was very friendly and very accommodating to the table! We started with the special which was a sweet and savory fried pickle. It was the best fried pickles I've ever had. I went on to have biscuit and gravy and a Bloody Mary and both were delicious! The food there is good and the views are even better! read more

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Annie H.

354

1 year ago

Enjoyed the food and ambiance at the Boathouse. Mostly we enjoyers our server Cece. She knew the menu inside and out, answered our questions easily, helped us customize our meal easily and was entertaining! We are "just passing thru" and her easy manner and optimistic manner was just what weary Travelors needed! The shrimp (blackened) was amazing, the pineapple salsa I need to learn how to make and the balsamic dressing was scrumptious! You won't be disappointed! The bread pudding is over the moon! Save room! read more

The Boathouse at Rocketts Landing - Fried zucchini! - Seafood Near Me - Richmond, Virginia

The Boathouse at Rocketts Landing - Bread Pudding... outrageous! - Seafood Near Me - Richmond, Virginia

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Jordan T.

7 months ago

Had a great family dinner here with Jewelz as our server! She was on top of everything and the restaurants ambience itself was fantastic! Would recommend and plan to be back. read more

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Bob C.

5 months ago

Great food, drinks and food on the river. Everything was great right down to the taste, pace, service and view.

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Cherrell C.

7 months ago

I sat at the bar and and tried a couple of appetizers. I had the crispy calamari and it was a 10/10. Asya was our server and she was amazing! Very attentive and knowledgeable about what the restaurant offers. read more

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Rosalind M.

4 months ago

Asya was a great!!! Service was so fast my experience great will return soon.. I really enjoy everything food drinks and services

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Vito M.

4 months ago

[[HIGHLIGHT]]Good food good ambiance[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]], drink menu is nice and the beer on tap is good and the staff is friendly and on top of things. read more

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xt c.

3 months ago

Stopped off here for lunch on the drive home to NY from Florida. Not too far off of i95. Very glad we did. Really nice views and the food was outstanding. CeeCee our waitress was very kind and we definitely will be making this a regular stop. read more

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Back

Page 2 of 30

4708 E Old Main St
Richmond, VA 23231
Shockoe Bottom
Directions
(804) 622-2628
Call Now
Order Takeout or Delivery
Start Order
Visit Website
http://www.theboathouse.com

Full menu

Hours

What time does The Boathouse at Rocketts Landing open?

The Boathouse at Rocketts Landing opens at 4:00 PM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.The Boathouse at Rocketts Landing opens at 11:00 AM on Friday and Saturday.The Boathouse at Rocketts Landing opens at 10:00 AM on Sunday.

What time does The Boathouse at Rocketts Landing close?

The Boathouse at Rocketts Landing closes at 9:00 PM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday.The Boathouse at Rocketts Landing closes at 10:00 PM on Friday and Saturday.

Mon-Thu 4:00 PM - 9:00 PMFri-Sat 11:00 AM - 10:00 PMSun 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM

Payment methods

Does The Boathouse at Rocketts Landing take credit cards?

Yes, The Boathouse at Rocketts Landing takes credit cards.

Food & Alcohol

Does The Boathouse at Rocketts Landing have catering options?

Yes, The Boathouse at Rocketts Landing does have catering options.

Does The Boathouse at Rocketts Landing have a happy hour?

Yes, The Boathouse at Rocketts Landing has a happy hour.

Does The Boathouse at Rocketts Landing serve alcohol?

Yes, The Boathouse at Rocketts Landing serves alcohol. Full Bar

Indoor Amenities

Does The Boathouse at Rocketts Landing have TVs?

Yes, The Boathouse at Rocketts Landing has TVs.

Outdoor Amenities

Does The Boathouse at Rocketts Landing have bike parking?

Yes, The Boathouse at Rocketts Landing has bike parking.

Does The Boathouse at Rocketts Landing have outdoor seating?

Yes, The Boathouse at Rocketts Landing has outdoor seating options.

Does The Boathouse at Rocketts Landing have parking?

Yes, The Boathouse at Rocketts Landing has parking options. Private Lot Parking, Street Parking, Valet Parking

Other Amenities

Is The Boathouse at Rocketts Landing wheelchair accessible?

Yes, The Boathouse at Rocketts Landing is wheelchair accessible.

Does The Boathouse at Rocketts Landing allow outdoor smoking?

No, The Boathouse at Rocketts Landing does not allow outdoor smoking.

Does The Boathouse at Rocketts Landing have free WiFi?

No, The Boathouse at Rocketts Landing does not have free WiFi.

From the Business

Specialties

Restaurant trendsetter Kevin Healy opened The Boathouse with one vision in mind: to create an unmatched dining experience featuring authentic, locally sourced cuisine. The Boathouse has since remained true to that vision over the years by perfecting our seafood staples and cultivating a refined culinary experience in our relaxed space. We feature a distinctive menu with seafood specialties such as our original crab cakes, classic shrimp and grits, and the freshest, ice-cold oysters available. Since day one, we've always strived to provide the purest ingredients in an accessible atmosphere that welcomes everyone with warmth and a genuine taste of Richmond. Come celebrate life one bite at a time.

History

Established in 2009.

This adventure started in 1988, when what is now The Boathouse at Sunday Park was called Sunday's Restaurant. Now a Boathouse staple, we created the incomparable crab cake recipe back then and have been perfecting it over decades. Throughout the years, both the atmosphere and the menu have remained neighborhood favorites. Although the name has changed and our family of restaurants has grown, our purpose has always been to welcome each guest with warmth and to provide the finest culinary dining experience that Richmond has to offer.

Meet the Manager: Michael H.

at The Boathouse at Rocketts Landing.

More Info

Health Score

The Boathouse at Rocketts Landing Reviews in Other Languages

Ask the Community - The Boathouse at Rocketts Landing

Do you still have the frustrating contactless ordering from your cell phone?

Hi Forrest, we went back to ordering from your server in 2022. Hope you consider giving us a chance again sometime soon!

Where can I park near the restaurant? Is there a free or paid parking lot/garage?

There are two lots nearby— one at 11 Orleans St. and another right around the corner. Hope to see you soon!

Does this restaurant allow us to bring a dog to the seats outside?

Yes our outdoor patio is dog friendly. Hope to see you soon!

How's the oysters and do they have oyster happy hour?

Hi Dej, Our oysters are part of what earned us recognition as one of Richmond's "Best Seafood" restaurants in the most recent roundup. We have our own private bed at the confluence of the Piankatank River and the Chesapeake Bay, which means we can…

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Does this restaurant still use that cumbersome app to order your food instead of having a waiter?

Yes they do. Another reason I wasn't impressed. Maybe I could have made up a vegan dish if I could have talked with somebody.

View 1 more answer

Is the patio heated?

No...i just think if the weather is bad then wont sit you out there

What is the dress code?

Clothing is preferred, I think it may be a requirement.

Do they have happy hour on Saturday?

Happy hour is everyday 1-4 I'm sure

Is there on site parking?

There is parking along the street and a parking lot at Conch Republic. I've also seen valet service but I'm not sure if it's daily or on the weekends only.

View 6 more answers

View All 10 Questions

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The Roosevelt

So been here twice in 4 months and can definitely say it's in my family's top three for favorite…read morerestaurants in Richmond. Love the decor and ambience, service is friendly and helpful and the food and drinks are all creative and delicious. Our second time out we ordered these for cocktails: Daybreak Seersucker Stevie's spell Amelia Earhart Nutty professor We all liked our drinks and mostly each others as well lol. I usually don't order rum drinks but my son's nutty professor was very good especially with the fresh nutmeg on top. For apps we got the shishito peppers, deviled eggs and the grilled albemarle peaches. We enjoyed all of them but my favorite was the peaches and everyone else loved the deviled eggs. For entrees we got the fried catfish, buttermilk braised brisket, grilled pork belly and pan roasted scallops. We all ordered well! We liked the bites from everyone's dish but liked what we ordered for ourselves best. I got the brisket which had such flavor and depth. Had a really healthy portion too so had to box up half and bring it home which is awesome. Parking is on the street which can be a challenge but the walk isn't too bad if it's nice weather. Has a ramp to the entrance which makes it handicap friendly.

As a relatively new DMV transplant exploring RVA, my friend Jackie and I have made it our mission…read morethis week to get out and experience the city. We landed on The Roosevelt, and I can confidently say it was one of the best meals I've had in Richmond. The restaurant was packed when we arrived, but we managed to snag two seats at the bar. From the moment we walked in, we were greeted by a friendly and welcoming maître d', setting the tone for the evening. The bartenders were equally impressive eith one a true Chatty Cathy, the other more reserved, but both were masters of their craft, creating unique and distinctive cocktails with ease. We started with the cornbread and maple butter syrup. My only complaint? Can a girl get a little more butter? The cornbread itself was dense, flavorful, and absolutely delicious. Next came a small plate of squash served over sweet potato hummus. This dish completely surprised me. The flavor profile reminded me of Haitian cuisine, meaning it was warm, layered, slightly sweet, and carrying just enough heat to keep things interesting. It was creative, distinctive, and honestly one of the highlights of the meal. For our entrées, Jackie chose the steelhead trout while I opted for the scallops served pescatarian-style with ramp clam chowder. Let me tell you something: this was the first time in my life that I genuinely enjoyed clam chowder. The scallops were perfectly prepared, and the chowder elevated the entire dish. Every bite was exceptional. Of course, we couldn't leave without dessert. We shared the chocolate chess pie, and it was everything you want in a chocolate dessert, a dense, fudgy, rich, and utterly decadent. It was so good that I went home, climbed into bed, and happily surrendered to a food coma. What stood out most was that The Roosevelt delivered on every level: hospitality, atmosphere, creativity, and execution. The meal was worth every dime, and I will absolutely be bringing visiting friends and family here in the future. For anyone looking for an outstanding dining experience in Richmond, The Roosevelt has earned a permanent spot on my recommendation list.

The restaurant's namesake!

Cheerwine cake

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Ramp stuffed chicken

The Biryani Corner

4.5

(31 reviews)

0.1 mi

Great food- butter chicken fries were phenomenal. The curry was great!!!…read more We received very pleasant service from our server and loved the setup inside the restaurant.

I came in here for something to hold me over while working. Abraham was amazing. He recommended the…read morebutter chicken fries. And OMG, it was everything I didn't know I needed. It was so flavorful and delicious. I've NEVER had butter chicken before and now I think I have a new favorite. 100/10 O HIGHLY RECOMMEND. Oh and BONUS, they have peacocks (my spirit animal) on the walls. IYKYK. I will be back very soon to try everything on the menu. When you go, tell them, "MzPchz, sent me".

Naan, TBC Crispy Chicken, Loaded Butter Chicken Fries, Saffron Cumin Rice, Butter Chicken

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Boozy Mango Lassi

Pink Room

4.4

(14 reviews)

1.3 mi

If you go to the Pink room, you have to ask Frankie to make you a gin martini - it will absolutely…read moreruin your life in the best possible way because there will NEVER be another martini in this world that tops Frankie's martini (period the end). Perfectly balanced, crisp, and unforgettable. The vibes are just as amazing as the drinks - cool energy all around. Be on the lookout for their dry brunch - a fun and unique immersive experience! Pink room is the kind of place you want to keep coming back to and show it off when you have friends or family visiting!

So Pink. Great fancy cocktails in Union Hill RVA! We had a great time in this quirky unpretentious…read morespace. Cocktails were a little pricey but we ain't cheap. I highly recommend the experience.

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Reveler Experiences

4.7

(46 reviews)

4.3 mi

Révéler is the kind of place that defies easy description, which is exactly what makes it worth…read morevisiting. The décor is wildly eclectic and definitely gives the spot a unique feel. I was there for a private event. The crowd was warm and wonderfully mixed. There was a little chat before the event began that basically told us to not get kicked out by being mean or non-inclusive. Not sure how I felt about that. Parking in Carytown is its own contact sport. Come early -- your blood pressure will thank you. I parked 6 blocks away and was lucky to get that. Bottom line: Weird, welcoming, and worth every lap around the block looking for a spot if you're into crowds and are looking for something different.

Came here with friends and it seems like a cool spot, especially for an older crowd. We purchased…read moretickets expecting a jazz experience, but the music was not jazz at all, which was a bit disappointing. The art exhibitions were nice and definitely interesting to walk through. The charcuterie board we ordered was excellent and a highlight of the night. The location is also great for nightlife. That said, the drinks didn't quite hit the mark for me, and the service was inconsistent. We were told guests are expected to be quiet during the sets, yet another group was talking loudly and nothing was addressed, which felt a bit uneven. Overall, it's not a place I'd return to, and I wouldn't recommend it if you're looking for a more diverse crowd.

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Pelagos VR

4.7

(11 reviews)

10.1 mi

Our second visit wasn't as great as our first. I'd like this place to succeed because it's…read moredifferent and fun but I think the price point is prob too high given the inconsistency of the experience. The first time we came it was on time and we loved the Dragon Tower escape room: it was the perfect mix of puzzle and action. This time we showed up 10 minutes early and they said they were running 5-10 minutes behind because of "cleaning issues". Well it turned into 20 minutes late so thankfully we already canceled our dinner reservations. I think it would've been fine if it wasn't $250 for a family of five for 38 minutes and the ninja trials escape room was not as exciting or interesting as dragon tower. Also one of the equipment pieces we were given was faulty so that made it less fun for one of us.

Pelagos VR is a fantastic addition to the area for unique entertainment, and there are so many…read moreoptions within it! Just as a quick rundown, there are three main types of VR here: the front area where you are strapped into a VR system and can run in place, a virtual escape room, and a VR action arena (large room with VR cameras on the walls and you can physically run around). I haven't tried the escape room and I liked the strap-in ones, though it's the VR arena that really elevates this place. So far I have done Patient Zero and several rounds of the Urban Assault in the arena, and it's an amazing experience. Between the excellent physical tracking, the true-recoil VR guns, and the actual movement in the real world mapping to the VR world, it is insanely immersive and easy to adapt to. It is quite exciting too: I was fortunate enough to participate in their latest tournament and it was chaotic fun from start to finish. The tournaments are a special treat because for now the entry fee is only $20 while the regular experiences run a fair bit more, so it's an insanely good deal for the amount of fun you're having. On top of the excellent experiences, I would be remiss if I didn't highlight their incredible staff. This is mostly a family-run place and it shows with how kind and personable everyone here is, with positive attitudes, a true love for what they do, and excellent mastery of VR tech and training new players. I have met the owner twice and he goes out of his way to make everyone feel welcome and appreciated for their visits. The most underrated part here is actually nothing to do with VR but actually their bar offerings: the happy hour here is every day of the week (including weekends) and you can get $4 beers (including a few local drafts) and very reasonably priced appetizers. If I were in the area and just wanted a quick beer with a friend before doing something else, I would absolutely come here for it at those fantastic prices. Since Pelagos VR is attached to the mall, there is plenty of lot parking very close by, so no issues there. Really the only drawback of this place is the price, particularly if you come by yourself or one other person as their price structure rewards larger groups. I would absolutely come here with a friend group because of that though a date night here would add up fast. I look forward to coming here again with friends, especially for the tournaments. This is one heck of an outing to look forward to! Overall: 5.0 stars ---- Pros: - Amazing and unique VR experiences, truly memorable in every way. - Multiple options, including stationary running, open arena, or escape room. - Fantastic staff who are kind, knowledgeable, and clearly happy to be there. - Excellent happy hour food deals, worth trying even without the VR. - Easy parking and access since attached to the mall. - Pricing for large groups and the tournaments are great... Cons: - ...though the cost for a small group (especially for only one or two people) is a bit prohibitive unless you have deep pockets. Their pricing is entirely reasonable given what you get for it, though this is really the only thing that keeps me from going every week. Maybe one day they'll have a membership or a punchcard pass option!

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502 reviews that are not currently recommended

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Richard S.

3 months ago

Bad date night atmosphere, mediocre food, and overpriced. No plans to return. We came here for an anniversary dinner with a reservation for an indoor table, but the experience immediately started off poorly. We were initially seated at the first available table closest to the hostess stand: a large six-person booth under harsh spotlights, and next to a loud, rowdy 10+ person group at the bar. It was not the setting for a special occasion, especially one we noted in the reservation. When we asked to move to one of the many available smaller, quieter tables elsewhere in the restaurant, we were told no. Minutes later, we were moved anyway.. seemingly because they needed the larger booth for another party. The more desirable tables remained empty the entire time, which made the initial refusal even more frustrating. The space itself feels cheap and poorly thought out. It's one large, open room with no separation, dominated by a massive TV over the bar playing sports and visible from any location in the restaurant. The decor leans toward tacky: blue-lit bar, plastic decor hanging from the ceiling, and low-quality furniture. It doesn't come close to justifying the high prices. Nothing about the atmosphere felt appropriate for a nice night out. The noise level made things even worse. A private event in the Boathouse venue downstairs blasted bass-heavy music that literally shook the restaurant throughout our meal. We continuously heard the thump thump thump our entire time there. On top of that, nearby diners were using bright handheld LED lights taking selfies at the table, adding to the chaos. We spent most of the night raising our voices just to have a conversation. We noticed the couple seated at a table beside us was visibly frustrated as well. Service and food didn't make up for it. We ordered cocktails and appetizers but the apps came well before our drinks as our waiter said the bar was backed up. When they did come, we found them extremely sweet. The oysters ($15) were fine, and the hush puppies ($9) were good, but the entrées were underwhelming for the price: the shrimp and grits ($34) were heavy, and the burger+side salad was completely ordinary especially for $24. Dessert was the low point -- the "Classic Zookie" ($12) was an unappetizing, undercooked mess that we couldn't finish. It was like raw chocolate chip cookie sludge with a small scoop of vanilla ice cream and Hershey's chocolate sauce drizzled over it. We couldn't figure out if the kitchen made a mistake or it was the intended result. To make matters worse, my wife got sick in the middle of the night afterwards. Overall, this was a disappointing and frustrating experience, especially for a special occasion. Between the atmosphere, noise, service issues, and mediocre food, it's hard to justify the price -- and we have no plans to return. read more

Jason W.

17 years ago

If you want a contemporary looking restaurant that has a cool exterior, then you need to check out the Boathouse at Rocketts Landing, because you will not be disappointed. On the outside and in pictures, this is one cool looking place located far enough away from Richmond to be out of downtown, but close enough to be within a very short drive of the city center. So, if you are so inclined, I think that it is entirely reasonable to go to this restaurant and stare at it. Check it out from all angles. Maybe even take a picture or two (it is Richmond after all, so we are deprived of much that looks contemporary). Then when you finish gazing at the nice boxy restaurant on the river, for God sake, go somewhere else for dinner. This place is awful. The acoustics in this joint are akin to dining in a construction zone. It is unbelievably loud. Firstly, the bar and the dining room all share one giant rectangular cube space. There is nothing to block out the sound of the after work crowd downing a few beers and screaming to their friend's about their idiot bosses or groups of ten breaking out in more inebriated choruses of "Happy Birthday" than you would get on a Jon & Kate Plus 8 Birthday special. Seriously, if it is said at the bar, it is heard at the furthest reaches of the dining area. If you don't like the person or people in your dinner party, you might appreciate the inability to converse, otherwise, it gets annoying fast. A cacophonous din might best describe the atmosphere. Secondly, the food is about as good as you would expect to eat in a construction zone. Fish was dry and the pizza was a tasteless dud. Maybe you will do better with a $30 filet but this is not the place I would gamble on a pricey meal and at about $20 per entrée, there are few inexpensive options. Thirdly, this place is about as ascetically appealing as a construction zone. The lighting is circa-1990 halogen beams from small lights on tracks (not even the cool blue dangly lights that some restaurants use, more like what you would buy at Home Depot if you were a landlord trying to brighten up a room at a dingy property). The walls are very austere and bleak. It truly looks like a cross between a crummy living room (with the bad lighting) and a low end banquet hall with no discernable eye catching features, save for the nice views of a not that nice river. And, as an extra benefit, you will wait at least 30-60 minutes for a table. Trust me on this one, use the time to search on Yelp for another restaurant--this place is a big disappointment. read more

Jon K.

13 years ago

Our recent Saturday evening at The Boathouse qualified as both an outstanding dining experience and an incredible "small world" encounter! Visiting Richmond for the first time as guests of our son's in-laws, we had been treated to lunch at Millie's and drinks at The Jefferson before arriving at Rocketts Landing for dinner. Parking the car, we noticed a Michigan plate on the car in front of us, and a closer look revealed it was from our home town of Traverse City. As we were seated, the very-personable waitress asked if it was our first visit and where we were from. Mentioning the license plate outside, we told her it looked as if there were someone else from our home town dining there that evening, at which point she mentioned that their new chef was from Traverse City. Immediately, the pieces of a puzzle fell together; we had known since early summer that our favorite chef at one of the premier restaurants in the Traverse City area had relocated to Virginia, but had no idea we would find ERIC purely by chance in Richmond! Eric Nittolo had an extremely successful tenure at our own Boathouse Restaurant near Traverse City for the past several years, garnering praise and recognition for his innovative and delicious cuisine. Located on the banks of Grand Traverse Bay at Bowers Harbor Yacht Club, the spectacular sunsets, gently-rocking yachts and soothing breezes were a perfect complement to Eric's impressive wine list and signature culinary creations. And Traverse City's loss is definitely Richmond's gain! Our appetizers included the plump and flavorful local oysters, a delectable beet salad and tempura-cooked local green beans with a smoky tomato coulis. One of our hosts enjoyed the Dover sole special, perfectly cooked and served atop a bed of diced tomatoes and artichoke hearts with a delicate sauce. I ordered the Chesapeake crab cake, and it arrived absent the "fillers" which so often dilute the flavor of the crab...instead a large cake chock-full of sweet crab meat and delicate seasonings, topped with shrimp, and served with fried green tomatoes and a portion of grits on the side. We hadn't planned on having dessert, but when we gave in and ordered the creme brulee to share, we were more than happy we did! So I have to say that The Boathouse at Rocketts Landing has pretty much everything a diner could want...great view, very efficient and engaging wait-staff and a top-notch chef in Eric Nittolo. I think it definitely will become Richmond's "go-to" location for a memorable evening! read more

Malik M.

3 years ago

I recently had the pleasure of dining at this restaurant for Valentine's Day with my girlfriend. The atmosphere was beautiful with dim lighting and candlelit tables creating a cozy and intimate ambiance. We started the night by ordering drinks and were pleasantly surprised by how great they were. I ordered the chocolate old fashioned, which was the perfect balance of chocolate and whiskey, and my girlfriend ordered the Aphrodite, which had a lovely fruity taste. For our appetizer, we decided to try the shrimp cocktail and the calamari, but unfortunately, we were disappointed. The calamari was absolutely amazing. It tasted as if they had caught after we had placed our order and served it immediately after. The shrimp left much to be desired.It was overpriced and only came with four shrimps, which was not worth the cost. For the main course, I ordered the braised boneless ribs, and they were fantastic. The meat was tender, juicy, and perfectly cooked with the right amount of seasoning. However, my girlfriend ordered the crab cakes, which were more filling than crab, and we didn't enjoy them as much as we hoped. We had to send them back, and the server was gracious enough to take them off our bill. The highlight of our meal was the dessert - the zookie. It was a delightful combination of warm, gooey chocolate chip cookie topped with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream. We savored every bite and agreed it was the best part of our dinner. In conclusion, while the appetizer and my girlfriend's main course did not meet our expectations, the overall dining experience was still okay. The atmosphere was lovely, and the drinks were fantastic. I would not recommend this restaurant strictly because the prices do not reflect what you receive. If you'd still like to go, just be cautious when ordering the shrimp cocktail and crab cakes. read more

Alex W.

11 months ago

I moved here from Texas in June, and several friends recommended Boathouse. My first visit with family was disappointing, the waiter was rude, refused to bring us water when asked, and left us with an unpleasant impression. The food, however, was excellent, so I decided to give the restaurant another chance. In the weeks that followed, I discovered their oyster happy hour and returned. On one occasion, the blonde bartender provided outstanding service and made me feel welcome. Unfortunately, her coworker offered a stark contrast. During another visit with coworkers, the service was disorganized, guests who ordered after me were served first, and when I politely asked about my order, the bartender responded with a dismissive look and no explanation. In my eight years working in food service, I've learned that communication goes a long way. A simple acknowledgment of delays is enough to keep customers patient. That evening, the lack of courtesy left me frustrated. On a subsequent visit, I was approached in a highly unprofessional manner by a the rude bartender who questioned why I "don't usually take care of her," implying that I don't tip properly. This was not only uncomfortable but completely uncalled for, given that I've consistently tipped 20-25% on previous visits. Rather than reflecting on service quality, the blame was shifted onto the customer, which speaks volumes about the culture being tolerated here. Boathouse has good food and potential, but too many of the servers act entitled and unprofessional. Hospitality is about more than just what comes out of the kitchen; it's how customers are treated from start to finish. After giving multiple chances and even recommending this place to friends, I can no longer support or recommend it. read more

Jessie C.

4 years ago

This was by far one of the worst dining experiences of my life. Keep in mind to sit outside here is 5 dollars extra a person, just to sit on the patio. First of all the ordering system is so tacky for such an upscale restaurant. We started at the bar with drinks, which ended up being the best part of our time here. When we sat at the table my whole group was extremely turned off by the fact that we were going to pay over 200 dollars for food, but we had to do all the ordering on our own. The system is so flawed. Even though orders were put in at the same time the food came out all out of order. My mother (who was visiting and I wanted to take her to a nice place) ordered the Shrimp and Grits. They were so salty and soupy that she became physically ill and threw up in the bathroom. Our "server" was apologetic and fixed everything but I need to know what exactly the servers at this restaurant are doing since they barely have to interact with anyone. On top of all of this bad stuff, there is a 20% service charge included no matter what. So, there is essentially no incentive for anyone to do their job correctly. We wanted another round of drinks before we left but again, due to the ordering system, it took so long to get the drinks that everyone was done and ready to leave. This was not a fine dining experience and could have been really nice if they simply worked like a regular restaurant. Not the server's fault seems to be really bad management and ownership.. had a horrible experience the night before at their sister restaurant Casa del Barco, but I will leave that disaster on their page. Skip this floundering seafood place and stick to a small place in town instead. read more

James S.

2 years ago

Our experience at The Boathouse was marred by two notable issues that ought to be addressed immediately. The most salient of which was the excessive wait times throughout our visit. After being seated, there was a noticeable delay before our order was taken. Following this, we waited approximately 30 minutes for appetizers and an additional hour for the main courses to arrive. In total, the time from seating to receiving our entrees spanned an unacceptable 90 minutes. Unfortunately, the restaurant made little effort to address or compensate for this inconvenience, offering only a brief, impersonal apology for the delay. Secondly, the establishment's inadequate climate control was surprising for a venue that positions itself as a fine dining restaurant. The uncomfortably warm temperature exacerbated the frustration of the prolonged wait times. The provision of paper fans as a solution was disappointing and fell short of the standards one would expect from a high-end establishment. While the entrees themselves were of decent quality, the wait times and uncomfortable dining environment significantly diminished their appeal. The overall experience did not meet the expectations set by The Boathouse's reputation or price point. To sum it up - the food quality showed promise, but the severe service delays and subpar climate control require immediate attention if The Boathouse wishes to maintain its standing in the fine dining category. read more

Erin R.

4 years ago

Wonderful Experience! I read some of the negative reviews in advance, but based on a friends recommendation when traveling to Richmond, I went and I am so glad I did! I made reservations and requested a table outside to soak in the views- it really is magnificent. My server was Pavle - he walked me thru the app- very easy! He was very attentive, refilled my beverage without a request multiple times. All the staff were very friendly- there was even a large dinner party happening and still received great service! I had the dynamite shrimp tacos and requested sour cream on the side in the app - it came out just as I had ordered! It was yummy! Yes, parking was not plentiful, but I got there early per the other comments. And, there is a walking trail just below the restaurant on the riverfront, so you can get there early for parking and get a leisurely walk in first while enjoying the view or walk thru the relatively new development nextdoor, very walkable! I would suggest arriving at sunset or after if you are not able to handle direct Sun as it is at the angle in the early evening that isn't covered by the umbrellas at the table. Yes, it's a little pricier, but the location is worth it- it makes the whole experience so memorable! read more

Janeisha T.

6 years ago

This place was so good. Came in Saturday during their lunch. I was disappointed that they didn't have brunch on a Saturday. Odd to me, but my waiter made it up to me. David had understanding about my disappointment with not having brunch and he showed me some other items to have that I have become a BIG fan of. He told me to get that ghost drink and my God was it worth it. This man send out some bread for me which was precut and delicious. Got me to get the crab dip and hush puppies which were fabulous. Then he told me that the apple salad with the blacken chicken and their old balsamic glaze would be good, and it did not disappoint. Ended the day with their "medium rare" (as he put it) zookie, and *chefs kiss* PERFECT meal. Give that young man a raise. He ain't a salesman that sales for more money. He sales to keep the costumers happy. And I will be back to sit in his section! Also to the chef. Dont know their name but the food was flawless. Now the view. I sat outside and the view was the best view in Richmond. Come in and enjoy it before it gets too cold!! Whole experience made me not miss the brunch as much, but ill be back for those crabcake benedicts on a Sunday anyways :] read more

Sarah C.

16 years ago

The Boathouse is by far one of my new favorite restaurants in Richmond. The restaurant sits right on the James River offering gorgeous views that are unique for Richmond. It also has a great atmosphere with windows that go floor to ceiling that offers spectacular views (especially at night) of Richmond's city line. It offers great food with lots of options, even the pickiest of eaters will be able to find something to eat here. With all of these unique aspects to the restaurant, you would think its hugely expensive, but it's not. Don't get me wrong, a person could easily spend some major money eating at the Boathouse, or they could get a appetizer, burger or pizza and eat for much less. The staff are clearly well trained as they practically give a tutorial on reading the menu. As amazing as this place is, it is not the place to just "walk in", it is typically pretty busy, so making a reservation is key!! "Must Haves" Include: Crab Puppies (hushpuppies with crab) Pazookie (cookies baked on the spot topped with ice cream) Crab stuffed shrimp If you love seafood, great atmosphere and amazing views - the Boathouse is a MUST! read more

Michelle W.

8 years ago

The atmosphere and scenery was beautiful. Very clean restaurant with a beautiful view. However, our filet was over cooked. When the waiter came back after delivering our food, 30 minutes later, he commented that my husbands steak looked over done and asked if he wanted them to prepare another one. He said no considering I was done with my meal already. The manager then came by to tell us happy anniversary which was nice and he even gave us a complimentary dessert. However he didn't ask how our meal was. My husband ordered filet and scallops and only ate half of the over cooked filet. We would have been fine with charging us the full price of he scallops instead of the full price of the filet and scallops, but nothing was done. Because of the slow service we were there for an hour and 50 minutes. I am updating my review. The manager reached out to me and explained this was not their normal service. I will return and give it a second chance as the fact that they reached out to me was excellent customer service! read more

Kay S.

3 years ago

I usually do not write reviews -either good or bad but wanted to mention an experience my family and I had recently at the Boathouse in Short Pump. Lately, whenever we go out to a restaurant, the customer service element has been lacking. It often seems that no one cares anymore, which brings me to this review. Our server, Carter at the Boathouse was such a breath of fresh air and so delightful. She greeted us with a big smile and a very friendly disposition. Throughout our evening, Carter was extremely attentive but not intrusive. She was very knowledgeable of the menu and able to answer questions and also make recommendations as needed. She took excellent care of us and her friendly nature was very appreciated! My wife and I will continue to dine at the Boathouse and will always request Carter when we can. We will also recommend her to our friends and family members who dine at the Boathouse. We really appreciate the pleasant experience we had! Great job! . read more

Steven P.

6 years ago

My wife and I attended the Boathouse this Sunday for brunch. We go to the Boathouse all the time, a particular favorite of ours for their authentic seafood. Upon being sat we had a couple questions about the brunch menu that we couldn't exactly answer just using our phones. We waited as several people passed us and no one really noticed that we were in need of help. On the verge of having a bad experience, Neil approached the table, explained that he saw the look of confusion on our faces and was ready to help! My wife was extremely happy that this young man approached us with such a genuine want of ensuring we received the best possible service available. If it wasn't for Neil, this review would probably have gone a different direction, but honestly he saved the day. Will definitely return in the future! keep up the good employment! read more

Dorothy B.

1 year ago

First Visit to Rocketts Landing Boathouse - Definitely Not the Last! We had our first visit to Rocketts Landing Boathouse today, and it did not disappoint! The restaurant sits right on the James River in Richmond, offering beautiful waterfront views--we even caught the first sunset of daylight savings time, which made the experience even better. From the moment we walked in, we were greeted warmly by Chase, and our server, Brianna, was fantastic--attentive, friendly, and super knowledgeable about the menu. Now, let's talk about the food. Everything was excellent from start to finish! If you go, do yourself a favor and order the corn and jalapeño hush puppies--they were so good I had to bring some home. All in all, a great experience, and we'll definitely be back! read more

Candra D.

3 years ago

This restaurant was amazing. My girls and I took a trip to visit a friend and she made res here. The food was phenomenal. I had the Brussels sprouts as an appetizer. I had the steak and eggs as an entree. Steak was small and not cooked to my liking but seasoned well. Drinks were very liquor forward and we loved that. As well as the zookie was fresh and tasty. Ty our hostess/waiter was on point and definitely need a raise/promotion because he definitely took the initiative to wait on us after we were waiting a little while for someone to come to our table. He was great and he checked in with us on numerous occasions. We loved him! This was definitely a great experience and when we're in town again we will definitely visit again. read more

Katie S.

2 years ago

Thomas was so warm, friendly, and patient- especially with 3 kids in tow! We were here celebrating Mothers Day, and Thomas even took the time to walk us outside and help us find a perfect place for a family picture which he took for us! He helped my kids navigate the menu by explaining in detail what certain words were and ingredients. He made suggestions for all of us, and we all agree that it was the best, most tasty, most perfectly cooked, memorable meal we've had in a long time. Thomas could not have been more patient and friendly, and having him as a waiter only enhanced our experience to be the best of the best. Wonderful! Thanks Boathouse and thanks Thomas! read more

Anthony C.

2 months ago

What an incredible dining experience from start to finish! The food was absolutely outstanding--every dish was prepared perfectly, full of flavor, and beautifully presented. You can tell the kitchen takes pride in every plate that leaves the restaurant. What truly made the evening special, however, was our server Nicole. She was attentive, knowledgeable, and genuinely friendly throughout the entire meal. Her recommendations were spot-on, drinks were always refilled promptly, and she struck the perfect balance between being available when needed and allowing us to enjoy our dinner uninterrupted. The restaurant gets 5 stars and so does our server, Nicole! read more

David R.

3 years ago

Tonight was our first visit to this location. Wanted to sit at the bar but there was no available seats at the time so my friend and I moved out to the patio area over looking the James River. The beautiful blonde bartender April was quick to greet us with food & drink menus along with ice cold waters. Although it was extremely busy & humid she definitely took great care of us and went above & beyond to make sure we were accommodated in every way! April was an absolute breath of fresh air tonight and one of Richmond's best bartenders as well! We will definitely be back soon because of her and that awesome smile and attitude. Thanks for everything April! read more

S S.

8 years ago

Have been now a couple of times. Same experience every time. Won't go back. We enjoy the Boathouse at Sunday Park and Hopewell but Rockettes Landing location is too loud and service slow. Depending on where you are seated, the sun is blinding and we have found the food to be subpar. Steaks undercooked (should not have to send them back) and not the best beef flavor. Vegetable Risotto dish bland (vegetarian options very limited). Will say the server was very nice and did her best and the views of the City Skyline and river are wonderful. Would recommend Rockettes for a drink and an appetizer but move on for dinner. read more

Hisham A.

4 years ago

First time here and was really impressed with the items we selected from the menu. For starters, the mussels were incredible along with the spicy jalapeño hush puppies. On to the main course, crab cake and the beer battered fish and chips, of course. Those are like the go to items to see if they got it right at any seafood restaurant. They knocked it out of the park. Let me not forget the service, restaurant manger came out to greet us, 'Shamar' our server was courteous and well timed when it came to taking the order and serving. Definitely coming back here again. read more

The Boathouse at Rocketts Landing - seafood - Updated August 2026

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