Nestled along the scenic waterfront of Elizabeth City, The Boathouse offers a diverse and flavorful menu designed to capture the essence of coastal dining. The restaurant prides itself on fresh ingredients, locally sourced seafood, and a welcoming atmosphere that appeals to families, couples, and groups alike. Whether you’re craving traditional Southern favorites or innovative dishes inspired by the sea, The Boathouse menu promises something for every palate.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through the various sections of The Boathouse Elizabeth City menu, highlighting signature dishes, popular appetizers, main courses, desserts, and beverages. Attention to detail and quality make dining here an experience worth savoring.
Appetizers
Starting your meal with one of The Boathouse’s appetizers is a great way to awaken your taste buds. The menu features a well-curated selection of starters that range from crispy fried delights to fresh, light options.
Each appetizer is crafted to complement the coastal theme while catering to diverse preferences.
| Dish | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Crab Dip | A creamy blend of lump crab meat, cream cheese, and spices, served warm with toasted pita wedges. | $12.99 |
| Fried Green Tomatoes | Crisp, tangy green tomato slices battered and fried to perfection, served with a zesty remoulade sauce. | $8.99 |
| Calamari Rings | Lightly breaded and fried calamari served with house-made marinara and lemon wedges. | $11.50 |
| Steamed Shrimp | Fresh Gulf shrimp steamed with Old Bay seasoning, served with cocktail sauce. | $13.99 |
| Boathouse Sampler | A combination of crab dip, fried green tomatoes, and calamari—perfect for sharing. | $18.99 |
“The crab dip is a must-try! Rich, creamy, and full of flavor — the perfect way to start any meal at The Boathouse.” – Local Food Critic
Soups and Salads
The Boathouse offers a variety of soups and salads that highlight freshness and seasonal ingredients. Whether you’re looking for a light starter or a satisfying side, these options are crafted to balance flavors and textures beautifully.
| Dish | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| She-Crab Soup | A rich, creamy soup made with blue crab meat and a splash of sherry, garnished with chives. | $7.99 (cup) / $10.99 (bowl) |
| Seafood Gumbo | A hearty Cajun-style stew featuring shrimp, crab, andouille sausage, and vegetables. | $8.50 (cup) / $11.50 (bowl) |
| Boathouse Caesar Salad | Crisp romaine, shaved Parmesan, crunchy croutons tossed in house Caesar dressing. | $9.99 |
| Garden Salad | Mixed greens with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and your choice of dressing. | $7.99 |
| Grilled Salmon Salad | Fresh greens topped with a grilled salmon fillet, avocado, and citrus vinaigrette. | $16.99 |
The soups are particularly popular during the cooler months, with the She-Crab Soup being a long-standing favorite among locals and visitors. Salads can also be customized with grilled chicken, shrimp, or salmon to make a complete meal.
Entrees
The heart of The Boathouse Elizabeth City menu lies in its entrees. From fresh seafood to classic Southern preparations, each dish reflects the coastal heritage and culinary expertise of the chefs.
The entrees are generous in portion and carefully seasoned to bring out the best flavors.
| Dish | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Blackened Mahi Mahi | Fresh Mahi Mahi fillet seasoned with Cajun spices and pan-seared, served with rice pilaf and sautéed vegetables. | $22.99 |
| Crab Cakes | Two jumbo lump crab cakes lightly breaded and pan-fried, served with remoulade sauce and coleslaw. | $24.99 |
| Fried Shrimp Platter | Golden fried shrimp served with French fries, hush puppies, and tartar sauce. | $21.99 |
| Grilled Ribeye Steak | 12 oz ribeye grilled to order, accompanied by garlic mashed potatoes and seasonal vegetables. | $28.99 |
| Stuffed Flounder | Flounder filet stuffed with crab meat and herbs, baked and served with lemon butter sauce. | $25.99 |
| Chicken and Andouille Pasta | Grilled chicken, andouille sausage, and penne pasta tossed in Cajun cream sauce. | $19.99 |
| Vegetarian Stir-Fry | Fresh seasonal vegetables sautéed in a savory Asian-inspired sauce, served over jasmine rice. | $16.50 |
“The crab cakes at The Boathouse are some of the best on the East Coast — perfectly seasoned and packed with real crab.” – Guest Review
Sides
Complement your entree with a variety of flavorful sides that balance and enhance your meal. The Boathouse offers classic Southern sides with a fresh twist, ensuring every plate is satisfying and complete.
| Side | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Garlic Mashed Potatoes | Creamy mashed potatoes infused with roasted garlic. | $4.99 |
| Coleslaw | Fresh shredded cabbage and carrots with creamy dressing. | $3.50 |
| French Fries | Crispy golden fries seasoned lightly with sea salt. | $3.99 |
| Steamed Vegetables | A medley of seasonal vegetables steamed to perfection. | $4.50 |
| Rice Pilaf | Fluffy rice cooked with herbs and broth for added flavor. | $4.25 |
| Hush Puppies | Sweet, golden-fried cornmeal balls served with honey butter. | $4.99 |
Desserts
No meal is complete without a sweet finish. The Boathouse offers an array of desserts that combine classic Southern flavors with a touch of coastal charm.
Each dessert is made in-house with care and quality ingredients.
| Dessert | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Key Lime Pie | A tangy and creamy lime filling on a graham cracker crust, topped with whipped cream. | $7.99 |
| Chocolate Bourbon Bread Pudding | Warm bread pudding infused with bourbon and chocolate chips, served with vanilla ice cream. | $8.50 |
| Pecan Pie | Rich, gooey pecan filling baked in a flaky crust, served with caramel sauce. | $7.50 |
| Seasonal Fruit Cobbler | Fresh fruit baked under a golden biscuit topping, served warm with ice cream. | $7.99 |
| Ice Cream Sundae | Vanilla ice cream topped with chocolate sauce, nuts, and whipped cream. | $6.99 |
Beverages
The Boathouse offers a thoughtful beverage list designed to complement its menu. From refreshing non-alcoholic choices to a curated selection of wines, beers, and cocktails, guests can enjoy drinks that perfectly pair with their meals.
Non-Alcoholic Beverages
- Freshly Brewed Iced Tea
- Lemonade
- Soda (Coke, Diet Coke, Sprite, etc.)
- Bottled Water
- Freshly Brewed Coffee
- Hot Tea
Wines by the Glass
| Wine | Type | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Chardonnay | White | $8.00 |
| Sauvignon Blanc | White | $8.50 |
| Pinot Grigio | White | $8.00 |
| Cabernet Sauvignon | Red | $9.00 |
| Merlot | Red | $8.50 |
| Pinot Noir | Red | $9.00 |
Beers
- Local Craft Beers (rotating selection)
- Domestic Bottled Beers
- Imported Bottled Beers
- Draft Beers (seasonal)
Cocktails
The bar menu features coastal-inspired cocktails using fresh ingredients and premium spirits. Some signature drinks include:
- Boathouse Breeze: Vodka, cranberry juice, pineapple, and a splash of soda.
- Elizabeth City Mule: Bourbon, ginger beer, lime, and fresh mint.
- Coastal Margarita: Tequila, triple sec, lime juice, and house-made sour mix.
- Seafoam Martini: Gin, elderflower liqueur, lemon juice, and a cucumber slice garnish.
Special Dietary Options
Recognizing the diverse needs of diners, The Boathouse Elizabeth City offers several options for those with dietary restrictions or preferences. Vegetarian, gluten-free, and low-calorie dishes are clearly marked on the menu, and the kitchen is happy to accommodate special requests.
For vegetarians, dishes like the Vegetarian Stir-Fry and select salads provide satisfying choices. Gluten-free guests can enjoy grilled seafood entrees and many sides without worry.
It is advised to speak with your server about any allergies or specific needs to ensure a safe and enjoyable meal.
Kids’ Menu
Families dining at The Boathouse will find a dedicated kids’ menu featuring classic, kid-friendly meals in smaller portions. The menu is designed to please young palates while maintaining the quality and freshness that define the restaurant.
| Dish | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken Tenders | Crispy fried chicken tenders served with French fries. | $7.99 |
| Grilled Cheese Sandwich | Classic grilled cheese with melted cheddar, served with fruit or fries. | $6.50 |
| Mini Cheeseburger | 4 oz burger with cheese, served with French fries. | $7.99 |
| Macaroni and Cheese | Creamy macaroni baked with cheddar cheese. | $6.99 |
| Fried Shrimp | Small portion of fried shrimp with hush puppies and fries. | $8.50 |
Seasonal and Weekend Specials
The Boathouse often features seasonal specials that highlight fresh, local ingredients or celebrate holidays and special occasions. Weekend brunch service adds another layer of variety with items like crab Benedict, shrimp and grits, and specialty omelets.
Specials are announced weekly on the restaurant’s website and social media channels. These offerings give guests a chance to experience creative new dishes and unique flavors beyond the regular menu.
Ordering Tips and Dining Experience
When dining at The Boathouse Elizabeth City, consider starting with an appetizer to share, followed by one of the signature entrees. Portions are generous, so plan accordingly if you want to save room for dessert.
The staff is attentive and knowledgeable, happy to recommend wine pairings or customize dishes to your liking.
“The ambiance perfectly complements the menu — waterfront views, fresh air, and a relaxed yet polished vibe make The Boathouse a top dining destination in Elizabeth City.” – Travel Magazine
Reservations are recommended during peak times, especially on weekends and holidays. The restaurant also offers private dining options for special events and gatherings.
Summary
The Boathouse Elizabeth City menu is a celebration of coastal cuisine, Southern hospitality, and fresh, local ingredients. With a wide range of appetizers, soups, salads, entrees, sides, desserts, and beverages, the menu caters to all tastes and occasions.
Whether you’re a seafood lover, a steak enthusiast, or seeking vegetarian options, The Boathouse provides a memorable dining experience in a beautiful setting. From casual lunches to special celebrations, the menu invites guests to savor the best of Elizabeth City’s culinary scene.
For the latest menu updates, specials, and reservations, visit their official website or contact the restaurant directly.
