Dock and Dine: Restaurants to Visit Via Boat in Put-in-Bay, Ohio
Put-in-Bay, Ohio, located on South Bass Island in Lake Erie, offers a unique dining experience with several restaurants accessible by boat. Whether you're arriving on your own vessel from a private boat dock rental or utilizing the island's water taxis and ferries, these waterfront eateries provide not only delicious cuisine but also stunning views of the lake.
The Boardwalk
Photo: The Boardwalk and Upper Deck (Facebook)
One of the most iconic waterfront restaurants on Put-in-Bay, The Boardwalk boasts a sprawling complex with multiple dining options, including Book’s Seafood, the Fish Shak, the Little Galley, the Upper Deck and the Main Deck. Visitors can dock their boats at the Put-in-Bay Public Docks and enjoy fresh seafood, sandwiches and cocktails while overlooking the bustling harbor.
The Keys
Photo: The Keys, Put-In-Bay (Facebook)
This Caribbean-themed Keys restaurant offers a laid-back atmosphere with a tropical twist. Situated near the downtown docks, The Keys welcomes boaters to tie up and enjoy island-inspired dishes like conch fritters, fish tacos and rum punch. Live music often fills the air, adding to the festive ambiance. There’s even a replica of the famous Key West buoy (Put-in-Bay is sometimes referred to as the Key West of the North).
The Reel Bar
Photo: Reel Bar (Facebook)
A favorite among locals and visitors alike, the Reel Bar offers a relaxed setting with indoor and outdoor seating overlooking the water. Boaters can pull up to the adjacent dock and indulge in comfort food classics like burgers, wings and pizza, along with an extensive selection of craft beers. It’s a wonderful spot to head to from private boat slip rentals.
Mossbacks Island Grill and the Fishbowl Bar
Photo: Fishbowl and Mossbacks at Put-In-Bay (Facebook)
Tucked away in a quiet corner of the harbor, Mossbacks Island Grill and Fishbowl Bar provides a more upscale dining experience to visit from private boat lifts for rent. Boaters can dock at the nearby marina and savor dishes crafted from locally sourced ingredients, including fresh seafood, steaks, and artisanal cocktails. Enjoy while taking in panoramic Lake Erie views.
Hooligans Irish Pub
Photo: Hooligan's Irish Pub (Facebook)
For those seeking a lively atmosphere and hearty pub fare, Hooligans Irish Pub is a must-visit destination from private boat lifts for rent. Located just steps from the downtown docks, this vibrant establishment offers boat-friendly docking and serves up traditional Irish dishes like shepherd's pie, fish and chips and Guinness stew.
We hope you’ve found some new spots to add to your Put-in-Bay dock and dining itinerary. Let us know your favorites. Happy boating!
