Situated on the serene waterfront of Dandridge, Cowboy’s Seafood On The Water offers an exceptional dining experience that marries rustic charm with fresh, flavorful seafood. The menu is a testament to the culinary expertise and dedication to quality that this establishment upholds.
Whether you are a local or a traveler seeking the perfect seafood meal, Cowboy’s combines the warmth of Southern hospitality with the invigorating ambiance of the water. The restaurant’s location enhances the enjoyment of every bite, making it an ideal spot for relaxing meals, family gatherings, or a romantic evening.
At Cowboy’s Seafood On The Water, the emphasis lies not only on the freshness of the catch but also on the meticulous preparation that highlights the natural flavors of the sea. The menu reflects a deep respect for traditional seafood dishes while embracing innovative twists that keep the offerings exciting.
Every dish is carefully crafted to balance taste, texture, and presentation, ensuring that patrons leave with memorable dining experiences.
From hearty platters to light appetizers, Cowboy’s menu caters to a variety of palates and preferences. The diversity of options makes it easy for guests to find something that suits their appetite and mood.
The thoughtful inclusion of sides, sauces, and accompaniments further enhances the overall meal, delivering full satisfaction with every visit.
Appetizers: The Perfect Start to Your Meal
The appetizer selection at Cowboy’s Seafood On The Water sets a high standard for the dining experience. Designed to awaken the palate, these starters showcase the restaurant’s commitment to fresh ingredients and bold flavors.
Whether you prefer crispy, savory bites or lighter, more refreshing options, the appetizer menu offers something to entice every guest.
Popular choices include the classic fried calamari, which arrives golden and perfectly seasoned. The calamari is complemented by a tangy dipping sauce that balances the richness of the fried batter.
Another highlight is the shrimp cocktail, featuring plump, chilled shrimp served with a zesty house-made cocktail sauce that adds a refreshing kick.
For those seeking a lighter option, the steamed mussels are a standout. Cooked with garlic, white wine, and herbs, they provide a fragrant and succulent introduction to the meal.
The portion sizes are generous, encouraging sharing and sampling among friends or family.
- Fried Calamari: Crispy, golden, served with a tangy marinara dip
- Shrimp Cocktail: Chilled shrimp with zesty homemade cocktail sauce
- Steamed Mussels: Garlic, white wine, and herb-infused broth
“The appetizers at Cowboy’s are a celebration of the sea’s bounty, offering bold flavors that perfectly complement the waterfront setting.” – Local Food Critic
Signature Entrees: A Feast of Freshness and Flavor
The signature entrees at Cowboy’s Seafood On The Water represent the heart of the menu. Each dish is a showcase of fresh, locally sourced seafood prepared with care and creativity.
Diners can expect generous portions accompanied by thoughtfully selected sides that elevate the overall taste experience.
One of the most beloved dishes is the Blackened Catfish, which features a perfectly seasoned fillet seared to create a smoky, spicy crust. The catfish is accompanied by creamy coleslaw and crispy fries, creating a well-rounded plate.
The Cajun Shrimp and Grits combines tender shrimp with rich, cheesy grits and a savory sauce that melds Southern comfort with coastal flair.
For those who prefer classic presentations, the Grilled Salmon is a favorite. Marinated with herbs and citrus, the salmon is grilled to perfection, maintaining its moist texture and vibrant flavor.
It is served alongside seasonal vegetables and a light lemon butter sauce, highlighting the fish’s natural taste.
| Dish | Main Ingredient | Accompaniments | Flavor Profile |
| Blackened Catfish | Catfish Fillet | Coleslaw, Fries | Smoky, Spicy |
| Cajun Shrimp and Grits | Shrimp | Cheesy Grits, Savory Sauce | Rich, Comforting, Spicy |
| Grilled Salmon | Salmon | Seasonal Vegetables, Lemon Butter Sauce | Fresh, Citrusy, Light |
Highlights of Signature Entrees
- Freshness guaranteed by local sourcing
- Balanced flavors to satisfy diverse palates
- Generous portions that serve as a fulfilling meal
Seafood Platters: Variety on a Single Plate
Seafood platters at Cowboy’s offer an exciting way to sample multiple favorites in one meal. Designed for sharing or hearty appetites, these platters provide an impressive assortment of flavors and textures.
Ideal for groups or those undecided about what to try, they deliver a comprehensive taste of what the restaurant excels at.
The Fisherman’s Platter is a highlight, combining fried shrimp, catfish, and clam strips, all served with hush puppies and fries. Each element is expertly prepared to retain its distinct taste while harmonizing as part of the ensemble.
The Crab Lover’s Platter features succulent crab legs alongside fried oysters and shrimp, making it a decadent choice for seafood enthusiasts.
Vegetable sides and dipping sauces complement the platters well, providing balance and contrast. The restaurant takes pride in offering fresh, crisp sides such as seasoned corn on the cob and garden salads, which brighten the heavier fried items.
- Fisherman’s Platter: Fried shrimp, catfish, clam strips, hush puppies, fries
- Crab Lover’s Platter: Crab legs, fried oysters, shrimp, vegetable sides
- Combination Platters: Customizable options mixing favorites
“Cowboy’s seafood platters provide an unbeatable variety, perfect for those who want to indulge in a little bit of everything.” – Frequent Diner
Soups and Salads: Light and Inviting Choices
The soups and salads at Cowboy’s Seafood On The Water add a refreshing dimension to the menu. These lighter options cater to those seeking something less heavy but still packed with flavor.
They also serve as excellent starters or complements to the main dishes.
The New England Clam Chowder is a creamy classic, rich with tender clams and potatoes, seasoned to a perfect balance. It offers warmth and comfort, especially on cooler days.
The Seafood Gumbo, on the other hand, is a spicy, hearty stew filled with shrimp, crab, and sausage, delivering a taste of Southern tradition.
Salads are equally appealing, with options like the Grilled Shrimp Caesar Salad, which pairs crisp romaine with smoky shrimp and a tangy dressing. The House Salad features fresh greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a choice of dressings, providing a crisp and healthy alternative.
| Item | Main Ingredients | Flavor Notes |
| New England Clam Chowder | Clams, Potatoes, Cream | Rich, Creamy, Mild |
| Seafood Gumbo | Shrimp, Crab, Sausage, Spices | Spicy, Hearty, Savory |
| Grilled Shrimp Caesar Salad | Romaine, Grilled Shrimp, Parmesan | Smoky, Tangy, Fresh |
Salad Dressings Offered
- Caesar
- Ranch
- Balsamic Vinaigrette
- Blue Cheese
Sandwiches and Po’Boys: Casual Comfort with a Seafood Twist
For those looking for a more casual meal, Cowboy’s offers a variety of sandwiches and Po’Boys that deliver bold flavors and satisfying portions. These handheld favorites are perfect for a quick bite or a laid-back lunch by the water.
The Shrimp Po’Boy is a standout, featuring crispy fried shrimp tucked into a soft bun with lettuce, tomato, and a tangy remoulade sauce. The Catfish Sandwich offers a blackened fillet with pickles and lettuce, delivering a smoky, spicy kick in every bite.
For something more classic, the Crab Cake Sandwich combines a juicy crab patty with fresh toppings and a creamy sauce.
Each sandwich is served with a side of fries or coleslaw, rounding out the meal. The bread choices are carefully selected to complement the fillings, ensuring a perfect texture balance between soft and crunchy.
- Shrimp Po’Boy: Fried shrimp, remoulade, lettuce, tomato
- Catfish Sandwich: Blackened catfish, pickles, lettuce
- Crab Cake Sandwich: Juicy crab patty, fresh toppings, creamy sauce
“These sandwiches elevate casual dining, combining freshness and bold southern flavors in every bite.” – Food Blogger
Sides and Accompaniments: Complementing Every Dish
The sides at Cowboy’s Seafood On The Water are thoughtfully chosen to enhance the main courses without overpowering them. Whether fried, fresh, or grilled, the accompaniments add texture, flavor, and balance to the plate.
French fries are a staple, perfectly golden and crisp, ideal for dipping or enjoying plain. The hush puppies, sweet and savory fried cornmeal balls, bring a delightful contrast in both texture and flavor.
Steamed vegetables provide a healthy, colorful option, reflecting the season’s best produce.
Other popular sides include creamy coleslaw, which offers a tangy crunch, and seasoned rice pilaf that pairs well with grilled dishes. These options allow diners to customize their meals according to their preferences, ensuring satisfaction across the board.
| Side | Description | Best Paired With |
| French Fries | Crispy, golden potato fries | Fried seafood platters, sandwiches |
| Hush Puppies | Sweet, savory fried cornmeal balls | Catfish, shrimp dishes |
| Steamed Vegetables | Seasonal, fresh veggies | Grilled entrees, lighter plates |
| Coleslaw | Tangy, crunchy cabbage salad | Fried seafood, sandwiches |
Tips for Pairing Sides
- Choose lighter sides like steamed vegetables with grilled dishes for balance
- Fried sides complement fried main courses for a classic experience
- Coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch to rich or spicy dishes
Desserts: Sweet Endings to a Hearty Meal
After indulging in the savory delights of the menu, Cowboy’s Seafood On The Water offers a selection of desserts that provide a satisfying conclusion. These sweet treats are crafted with care, featuring classic Southern flavors with a delightful twist.
The Banana Pudding is a crowd favorite, combining layers of vanilla wafers, fresh bananas, and creamy pudding for a nostalgic taste. The Key Lime Pie offers a vibrant, tangy contrast to the meal’s richness, with a buttery graham cracker crust and smooth filling.
For chocolate lovers, the Chocolate Lava Cake is a decadent choice, featuring a molten center served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Each dessert is designed to complement the seafood-centric meal without overwhelming the palate, providing a perfect balance of flavor and texture to finish the dining experience on a high note.
- Banana Pudding: Vanilla wafers, fresh bananas, creamy pudding
- Key Lime Pie: Tangy lime filling, graham cracker crust
- Chocolate Lava Cake: Molten chocolate center, vanilla ice cream
“The desserts at Cowboy’s are the perfect sweet finish, blending comfort and indulgence with Southern charm.” – Dessert Connoisseur
Beverages: Refreshing Complements to Every Dish
Cowboy’s Seafood On The Water boasts a well-rounded beverage menu designed to enhance the flavors of the food and suit the waterfront atmosphere. From classic soft drinks to carefully curated cocktails, there is something to satisfy every thirst.
The cocktail menu features Southern-inspired drinks such as the Mint Julep and the Tennessee Mule, each crafted with fresh ingredients and regional spirits. Local craft beers and a selection of wines provide options for pairing with different dishes.
Non-alcoholic choices include house-made lemonades and iced teas, both refreshing and flavorful.
Attention to detail is evident in the presentation and balance of the beverages, ensuring they are more than just a drink—they are an integral part of the dining experience. The staff is knowledgeable about pairing drinks with menu items, offering personalized recommendations to guests.
| Beverage | Type | Flavor Profile |
| Mint Julep | Cocktail | Minty, Sweet, Refreshing |
| Tennessee Mule | Cocktail | Spicy, Citrusy, Smooth |
| House-made Lemonade | Non-alcoholic | Tart, Sweet, Crisp |
| Local Craft Beer | Beer | Varies by selection |
Pairing Recommendations
- Mint Julep pairs well with fried dishes to cut through richness
- Tennessee Mule complements spicy seafood entrees
- Lemonade and iced tea are perfect refreshing choices for lighter meals
The menu at Cowboy’s Seafood On The Water in Dandridge is a celebration of fresh seafood, Southern tradition, and thoughtful culinary innovation. Each section of the menu offers carefully crafted dishes that cater to a variety of tastes and occasions, from casual lunches to elegant dinners.
The balance of flavors, quality ingredients, and warm hospitality combine to create an inviting atmosphere that keeps guests coming back. Whether indulging in the signature entrees, sampling a platter, or enjoying a refreshing beverage by the water, each experience at Cowboy’s is memorable and satisfying.
Dining here is more than just a meal; it’s an immersion into the rich flavors of the region, enhanced by the stunning waterfront views and welcoming ambiance. The attention to detail in every dish and drink speaks to the passion and expertise behind the menu.
For anyone seeking a top-tier seafood dining experience in Dandridge, Cowboy’s Seafood On The Water stands out as a premier destination. The extensive menu ensures that whether you crave bold, spicy flavors or prefer something light and fresh, you’ll find a perfect match that delights your palate and complements your mood.
In a world where fresh, high-quality seafood can sometimes be hard to find, Cowboy’s delivers consistently, making it a beloved spot for locals and visitors alike. The combination of excellent food, attentive service, and a scenic location creates a dining experience that is truly special.
Every visit promises new favorites and the comforting assurance of well-prepared, flavorful seafood dishes. Cowboy’s Seafood On The Water is not just a restaurant—it’s a destination for those who appreciate the art of seafood dining done right.
