The Boathouse Restaurant

Came to Boathouse Restaurant for my 30th birthday dinner with my girlfriend, and unfortunately, the experience was far from what we hoped for.

We arrived at 7:33 PM for a 7:30 reservation — well within the 15-minute grace period — and were sat in a back corner of the patio. The hostess did acknowledge the birthday, which we appreciated, but from there, things went downhill.

The view was nice, but the area around our table was visibly neglected. The railing beside us was filled with dirt, spider webs, and dead bugs — not what you’d expect from a restaurant that presents itself as upscale.

We weren’t approached by anyone until 8:05 — over 30 minutes after being seated. Meanwhile, a couple sat behind us, who were seated at 8:03 received cold water within 2 minutes. We were finally brought two warm glasses of still water at the same time the other guests received theirs — despite being seated much earlier. It was frustrating to see others who arrived well after us being served promptly while we sat waiting.

The dining room inside was nearly empty, and although the patio was full, there were clearly enough staff on shift — which made the lack of attention all the more confusing.

Food and drinks didn’t make up for the service either. Our pear and arugula salad came with barely any dressing — just one tiny cup that wasn’t even enough for a small portion. My whiskey sour with egg white had no froth, no flavor, and tasted watered down. My girlfriend’s Caesar made her feel sick. The only positive was our server’s handling of the sparkling water — she brought it quickly, chilled in a bucket, and was polite when she took our order.

We waited almost an hour after being seated to receive our food, which was lukewarm despite being served on a plate that was nearly scalding hot. My steak was medium-well with grill marks, but lacked the taste or texture of a fresh grill — it felt reheated, not freshly cooked.

What really disappointed us was the complete lack of birthday acknowledgment — despite the hostess being aware and it being mentioned in the reservation. No dessert, no simple “happy birthday,” nothing. For a milestone like a 30th birthday, the silence was disheartening.

To make matters more confusing, booking a reservation here — if you’re not staying at the resort — comes with no directions, no signage, and no instructions on how to get in. There’s no one at the front gate, and unless you know to press the intercom and ask for the restaurant, you’re left guessing where to park and how to get there.

All in all, this was meant to be a special night, but instead it was uncomfortable, underwhelming, and frankly, disappointing. For the price and the prestige this restaurant aims for, the service, food, and attention to detail fell flat. Wouldn’t return or recommend based on this experience.

We stay at the hotel so we come here a lot, as it’s the only restaurant at Taboo. 5 years ago it was great but over the years the service has gone downhill. This year we’ve concluded we can no longer come here. Their menu has gotten worse. Their staff doesn’t care about anything. They don’t keep reservations, and literally laughed when we were waiting 30 mins beyond the reservation time, only to never get a table. Any other place would have at least comped drinks for this. But their staff couldn’t care less. So dissapointing because the hotel setting is beautiful, and most of the hotel staff is nice, I’m not sure how the only restaurant has gotten so unbearable.

The atmosphere of this restaurant is the main reason to eat here. The property is gorgeous and the views from the patio are beautiful. Staff was friendly too. The burgers and fries were regular, nothing too special - same with the drinks. Also, gluten-free bun was dry. But, thankfully the burger sauce made it juicy.

Enjoyable atmosphere. Great spot for the sunset and good food. I recommend.

Amber handled our group so well. The staff went out of the way to make our bachelorette party so special. They all signed a card for the bride, and the live musician requested what she would like to hear. And the food was lovely!

We went here for my birthday on June 18th. The female server we had took our orders, brought our food and then didn't come back to check on us even with empty glasses on the table. She came back to ask how bills were separated and then never came back at all. About 1/2 hour later a guy comes out and says, she had to run an errand for someone. 🤷‍♂️ Mid service? We then had to explain who had what food and drinks on our orders to him.
The food was good and the atmosphere was wonderful but the service was definitely a miss this time. Not the best impression for our first visit unfortunately.

My husband and I shared a pizza, which was borderline burnt and a caesar salad, which was cut in huge 6 inch square pieces. The waitress didn't know how big the pizza was when we inquired before ordering, then had no idea what beer they offered on tap. We sat on the patio next to a stand-up heater and the top was flapping in the breeze, causing a constant, obnoxiously loud, irritating sound that we had to yell over. Won't be back.

Unbelievable scenery! Anastasio was such a great server! We really enjoyed my 30th birthday here. Coming again ABSOLUTELY 👍

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

I visited the restaurant at the Taboo resort in Gravenhurst, for the first time September 22.
The atmosphere on the deck was spectacular, however, we went for brunch and found that breakfast ended at 11. The lunch menu is pricey, limited and the food is not fantastic for the price. Plus, food service took 50 mins from point of ordering. On top of that the gratuity is already added to the bill yet the tip option is activated on the debit machines.
Not likely to return.

Parking: Parking was a 5 minute walk

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 3

Service: 3

My family and I visited this restaurant today. Our waiter was fantastic. He went above and beyond to ensure that a couple of us that are Gluten-free would be able to enjoy a wonderful meal without worry. Thank you! We dined out side and the view was breathtaking. Great food. Impeccable service.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Our experience was great and Anastasio made it awesome! He made sure our experience to be amazing, served us with a big smile and ensure everyone is happy with their order. The weather was a bit chilly, he got us the heater and got us blankets too so nice of him. He also ensured we get new cutlery after the appetisers (which is very rare in Canada :))
The food was delicious and nicely displayed. Atmosphere so pleasant.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

The food was mediocre. We got the duck confit fries with blueberries, not sure the blueberries added much to this concoction. The fries werent great, likely frozen from a bag. Couple piece of our calamari the batter was too thick, so it didn't taste cookes. The dessert they gave us for $16 was 3 bites and the server agreed it was under portioned but nothing was done about that. Drinks were fine, not super flavourful. Beautiful setting but wouldn't go back.

Atmosphere: 4

Food: 3

Service: 4

Nice patio, great service, amazing food! Boat friendly Parking too!

Atmosphere: 4

Food: 5

Service: 4

If your looking to have a good day, do not come here.

Atmosphere: 1

Food: 1

Service: 1

We enjoyed a lovely sunset dinner at the Boathouse. Amber, our waitress was outstanding to go along with the view and of course our dinners. Would highly recommend!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 4