Okay, so, let's get something out of the way here: Indiana (as well as the entire Midwest) is landlocked. We don't exactly have endless ocean views going on here, but that doesn't necessarily mean we don't have beaches or, in some places, waterfront dining. In fact, we found a stunningly beautiful waterfront restaurant in Indiana with views that rival those one might expect on the West Coast; nestled along Eagle Creek Reservoir is Rick's Boatyard, a family-owned nosh spot perfect for your next evening out. It specializes in fresh seafood, though there are other options that are just as perfectly prepared to enjoy, too. Check it out!
Established and opened in 1994, the Boatyard has undergone plenty of renovations, changes, and transitions, but a few things have remained constant over the years.
Those things are, in no particular order, the incredible view, the delightful food, and the excellent with-a-smile service.
Fans of a great backstory will love the tale about how the owner, Rick, met his wife Tena at the restaurant when she was dining there with a friend.
They were looking through vacation photos while Rick was wandering about and mingling with guests. He mentioned to them that he'd been to some of the places in their photos, too, and a conversation began. It would last for the entire evening - and the next year, Rick and Tena were married.
Today, they have masterfully crafted the perfect place for a birthday dinner, a first (or 50th) date, an engagement, a wedding... anything you need Rick's Boatyard to be for you in this specific moment, it's ready and waiting.
There's only one thing comparable to the views, and that's the food itself.
Primarily serving a menu of some of the freshest seafood you'll ever eat, Rick's Boatyard prides itself on meals that are both beautiful and delicious while still being affordable.
This little spot has all the elegance of a four-star establishment without the fuss of four-star prices. For everything you receive - from the views to the vittles to the presentation of the food itself - it's quite the smokin' deal.
Few things are as soothing as dining on perfectly-cooked salmon and watching the sun set over the reservoir.
It's too bad Rick's Boatyard isn't open for sunrise, because we assume those would be pretty great, too. Oh well - what we already get from this waterfront restaurant in Indiana is more than enough.
Indulge in some of Rick's most famous dishes, like fried catfish filets, crab-stuffed orange roughie, jumbo sea scallops, lobster tail, steaks, chops, and more.
Of course, you'll want to pace yourself and leave plentiful room for drinks, because the cocktails here are to die for.
For the ultimate waterfront dining experience, head up to Indy and go to Rick's Boatyard. You won't regret it for even a moment.
For the most up-to-date menu and hours, be sure to visit the official Rick's Boatyard website. What's your favorite waterfront restaurant in Indiana? Join the conversation and tell us about it in the comments!
Subscribe to our newsletter
Get the latest updates and news
Thank you for subscribing!
