Al Fresco Waterfront Dining on the Bay

I wish I had better to share. Burger wasn't even worth near $10+ you pay for fries and a drink with a small slice of tomato and a few dandelion leafs. The fries were so obviously soggy and could have used a few minutes more in the frier. Service was barely there. Was very disappointed because I had heard better about this place.

Atmosphere: 4

Food: 1

Service: 3

Genuinely confused by the numerous good reviews. Upon arriving we should have known something was wrong by the fact there were cobwebs everywhere and the walls/floors were dirty and littered with cigarette butts. However, we chalked it up to being an outside restaurant and maybe just unfortunate timing.

Other patrons at the place seemed nice, but the one worker taking orders behind the counter left a lot to be desired in terms of customer service. While not outright hostile, she was not nice or very helpful. You have to go to the counter to order and pick up your meal. For two basic meals (a salad, sandwich, two sides and two drinks) the total was over $40 and for no service they expect a tip. When we ordered our "drinks" they were out in the public area and we had to figure it out ourselves to take the drinks out of the public fridge.

This brings us to the culmination of the entire experience. Inside the fridge was a trapped an angry yellow jacket (wasp/bee), obviously a part of the nest somewhere on the patio. Before food, we only were bothered by the pests one time. However, as soon as we got our drinks and food we were not without an angry wasp/bee and did not even take a bite before deciding to leave. Another table remarked they had just been stung a few minutes ago too. We had to leave the can of coke behind as one flew in it.

The "waitress" was not apologetic or concerned with our abrupt departure. She in fact never said a word when we gave back our dishes and asked for a to go bag.

When we arrived back home, the food was lackluster and we ended up throwing out everything but the sandwich and made our own lunch. My advice, pack your own food or bring McDonalds and have a picnic in a park nearby if you want a semi nice water view.

Atmosphere: 1

Food: 1

Service: 1

Was greeted personally by the chef and owner of the location who gave us fantastic recommendations for even more fantastic food. I have never been more satisfied with a chicken sandwich in my life and I'm going to forever be comparing that delicacy to every other piece of food that I'm going to eat. Even food I normally wouldn't bring myself to eat like tartar sauce or white fish that I normally don't enjoy was so thoroughly enjoyable that I'm going to remember this place forever. My only regret is that I don't live closer

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Large Fry, Wildfire Salad, Rueben, Walleye Tacos

5/5 food with 5/5 views.

Got the perch dinner and couldn't believe how delicious it was. Driving distance from the amusement park, and you don't have to drive into the city for it. Right on the lake, open air, and overall a great dinner experience.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

I cannot articulate how much me and my party enjoyed this restaurant. We found it during a trip to the nearby theme park and were tired of the expensive and mediocre food available in and around the park/hotel. All of us were jaw dropped when we arrived at the location and were immediately greeted by the owner who explained to us things about the ordering process, the menu, and seated us outside by the marina offering gorgeous views while keeping us shaded from the summer sun. The food arrived at our table and we were absolutely stunned at the flavours available for the prices and as a result we actually ordered more after finishing the food. In particular, I fell in love with the Italian Beef sandwich. I would definitely recommend leaving the park and making the small journey out here. You will not be disappointed.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Was on vacation to cedar point. Subpar food on the resort campus had us looking elsewhere. Found Al Fresco and decided to try it out. Fantastic food, Fantastic service and a lovely atmosphere. Will be back again for sure.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Place is a little hidden gem in downtown Sandusky. Excellent food and service, highly recommend checking this place out

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Large Fry, Walleye Tacos

Wonderful place to eat on the lake. My family had a great time. Good vibes. Byob!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Walleye Tacos

The first time eating there, the food was tasty and had a very pleasant atmosphere. The employees were very friendly and helpful also. Will definitely be back!

Exceptional dining experience!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Wonderful hidden gem. Delicious food, beautiful views and very sweet staff.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Lobster Roll, Wildfire Salad

Mixed roll - Cajun (lobster and crab) was perfect! Just what I needed. Nice and relaxing next to the water. Grab a bite and enjoy the sea breeze ⛵⛵⛵

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 4

Recommended dishes: Lobster Roll

We ate there 7/16/24 @430pm for the 1st time. Prices were $$$ for food & didn't include fries. ? Perch sandwich was smallest filets ever seen. Parmesean panini was so chewey....not good. Ice tea was watered down & not good. Water was 2.50 for $ 1.00 plastic bottle. Will go to Dockside instead.

Best place to eat

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

This place is a hidden gem! My husband and I decided to go downtown Sandusky restaurant hopping. This was our first stop, and it was great! The owner came out to actually greet us and talk about the location and food, which was awesome. We shared the apple and garlic lobster roll and fries. Both were absolutely delicious! This is definitely a great summer stop right on the water.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Large Fry