Nestled in Disney’s beautiful Port Orleans Riverside Resort, Boatwright’s Dining Hall was kind of an accidental find for my husband and I on our honeymoon back in 2007. Our flight arrived late, and we figured that we would miss our reservation in EPCOT that night so we cancelled it upon arrival. As we checked-in to our resort, we asked if there were any other options, which is where the Cast Member at the front desk suggested Boatwright’s and that they had availability. My husband, not really a seafood fan was skeptical, but we were hungry and it was convenient so we went with it.

Boatwright’s Interior, Photo by Disney

Boatwright’s Dining Hall interior, Photo by Disney

We are both happy that we stumbled upon this Table Service restaurant that we have returned a few times since (especially when we are staying at Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside Resort or it’s sister resort Disney’s Port Orleans French Quarter Resort). Although the menu is rich in seafood options, there is also some delicious chicken, vegetarian and steak options. He went with General Fulton’s Prime Rib (served with veggies and mashed potatoes) and I went with the southern favorite, Boatwright’s Jambalaya (served on a bed of rice). Both were perfectly seasoned, but if you are afraid of spice, I would pass on the Jambalaya!

Prime Rib, Photo by Disney

Jambalaya, Photo by Disney

The service was also exceptional. Our server was courteous, efficient and above all helpful when my husband was concerned about the seafood, she suggested a few (delicious looking) options. Although we ate around 7PM, there were relatively few children around. So perhaps if you are looking for a casual table service option that is geared more towards adults, this is your place.

The theming of the restaurant is simple yet complex at the same time. From the ferry-boat themed construction blueprints on the walls, to the hull of a fishing boat suspended on the theming, Boatwright’s manages to immerse you in the setting while not being overbearing. You won’t find any characters here, but Boatwright’s still manages to build-in a lot of character!

Although I am not sure I would recommend this restaurant if you are not actually staying at Port Orleans, I definitely recommend it if you are. It is a time-saver (no commuting to another area to eat can save you over an hour!), a peaceful break from the busy parks as well as somewhere to eat before heading out to Yehaa Bob Jackson’s show at the River Roost Lounge! Please note that the restaurant is only open from dinner from 5-10pm, and although my husband and I were able to walk-in on our honeymoon, you might not be so lucky! I recommend making Advanced Dinner Reservations, which can be made up to 180 days before arrival.

As Mark Twain once said: ““New Orleans food is as delicious as the less criminal forms of sin.”

Enjoy!