Rick's Cafe Boatyard

02/16/08

Better Choice than the other Seafood Restaurants

by 1stBigMac at Citysearch

If you like the taste of seafood and taking someone along who doesn't, Rick's Cafe Boatyard is a recommendation to consider seriously. It was funny as I also checked into the reviews of Rick's and was concerned about comments of slow and poor service. I looked at the dates to see how recent they were. Six years ago can not possibly reflect the current business philosophy.

I am happy to say it doesn't. Rock's had already filled in its prime reservations slots which made me take one an hour earlier than I wished. I came with three lovely ladies and even though we were twenty minutes late, we were seated right away. No arguments. No problem. We were waited on quickly, food came out quickly, hot and delicious. My salmon roulade was perfect. The board-roasted whitefish drew a wonderful praise as did the Shrimp Scampi and Chicken Parmesean. Never went thirsty and the deserts (cheesecake and creme boule) were eaten down to the plate even though we all claimed we had no more room for any food.

Although the place was packed, we stayed with drinks and talked and laughed as the band played in the background. We should have left much earlier but enjoyed the restaurant for two and half hours without so much of having the check placed in front of us. When the check came, it was good to see that I would be paying about 35% less than I would downtown Indianapolis.

My only complaint? I like to finish my meal with an expresso. I was told Rick's machine was not working. When I asked the waitress "Where is Rick?" half-jokingly, she pointed him out for me. Easily approachable, Rick heard me out and said he would have that rectified. We'll see.

Regardless, I will return again and again. The menu is pretty large to get a feel at one sitting. So, if you want downtown cooking but the outside, quiet views then you need to try Rick's Cafe Boatyard. Remember that everything is ala carte so you pay a little more. Just enough, however, to make it special.

• Pros: Menu selection, quick service, your pace - not theirs, value and experience
• Cons: Parking can be cramped on full evenings but valle is available. Expresso would be nice

07/08/07

Great food wonderful service

by santelt at Citysearch

Rick's fresh music and live seafood speaks to this Indianapolis institution's focus on food and ambience. A great place to dine and our server Jasmine anticipated our every need. Wonderful summer Sunday afternoon.

• Pros: Great food and service
• Cons: None

04/25/07

Ricks Forever

by barryml at Citysearch

I have the fondest Memories of Ricks Cafe. I have travelled all over the US and I still remember Ricks!!! You go to Ricks for the food and ambience, not for fast food. So if you are in a hurry, I'm sure there is a McDonald'ds nearby. Enjoy eating here again and again. I now live on the West coast, so go there and eat for me!!!! The food is great, the specialty drinks are to die for, and the ambience is so relaxing. One of my favorites across the country. See if they still make a sweet tart drink at the bar, and tell them Michele with a post on City Search says HI!!!

07/19/06

filet magnon

by lavburger3 at Citysearch

My husband took me for Mothers Day. The blue cheese filet magnon was absolutely delicious.It was real hot that day, but the waitress came and lowered the blinds. The atmosphere there was very romantic. I will go there again.

07/02/04

Great Spot

by john77 at Citysearch

Great food, great location. Service can be spotty when the place is packed, which it frequently is on nice summer evenings. Don't go if you're in a hurry. Take your time and enjoy yourself. The food is consistently excellent.

• Pros: Food, View, Atmosphere

02/04/03

Rick's For Life

by crazycanuck1100 at Citysearch

This is a great restaurant in the Indianapolis area. It is a place for every couple to visit. You will love the great food, service, and atmosphere.

• Pros: great food, good pricing, excellent service

11/27/02

The harbor for the finest food

by grumpyuncle at Citysearch

Without a doubt the very finest in relaxing meals and the service was great.

• Pros: very good parking, beautiful view, good staff