It’s easy to miss Boat House as you drive along scenic Highway 1 in Bodega Bay. If it weren’t for the seafood-scented smoke rising from the nondescript, small light blue building, you might miss the restaurant altogether. But it’s worth seeking out and has long been my go-to place for a casual lunch whenever I’m the area. The seafood is fresh, the prices are very reasonable and the beachfront patio view is beautiful.
My favorite items on Boat House’s menu are the barbecued oysters, the fish and chips, the fried clams and the clam chowder. It was tough to decide, but on my last visit, I ordered the barbecued oysters.
I can’t say enough about how fresh these oysters are. They were a little smaller than usual, but perhaps the size of the oysters depends on the season. The barbecue sauce that the oysters are served in is usually more buttery too, but no matter. They were still delicious, briny and full of flavor.
If it’s greasy goodness you’re after, go for the aforementioned fish and chips. Served with a fantastic tartar sauce, the batter is crispy and the thick-cut fish is firm and flaky. The only downside is that it’s so heavy that you may need to be rolled out of the restaurant.
In tourist-filled beach towns, seafood restaurants are often a dime a dozen and it’s easy to run into a bland meal. Boat House, on the other hand, consistently serves up flavorful and fresh dishes, and with a view to boot.
We just moved from the Bay Area and it’s too bad we never made it to this place. Loved the scene at Bodega Bay, it is such a cute little place. One day when we go back, we’ll be sure to check out the Boat House.