4 Delicious Dockside Restaurants in Western New York
The Buffalo area is home to some of the best dockside restaurants in the region. From casual eateries to fine dining, guests can find an array of waterfront establishments that offer a unique atmosphere. Collins Marine is just a short trip away from a few of the best dockside restaurants in the Buffalo area! Looking for a new place to check out this summer? Here are 4 amazing dockside restaurants to try while you’re out on the water!
Ballyhoo Restaurant and Bar
Ballyhoo Restaurant and Bar, located on the Buffalo River near downtown, is a seafood-focused eatery with stunning views of the riverfront. The menu features classic dishes like fish and chips and mouth-watering burgers alongside house-made sausages and sides, classic cocktails, both local draft and canned beers, and wine by the glass.
What sets the Ballyhoo’s cocktail menu apart from other local bars? Try a Jam session cocktail! Your bartender will help you pick a flavor of jam (yes, we are talking JELLY) and pair it with your favorite spirit to make a refreshing summer drink! With its nautical decor, outdoor seating, live music events, and lively atmosphere, Ballyhoo provides a great spot for dinner and drinks with friends or family.
Buffalo RiverWorks
RiverWorks is an all-in-one entertainment complex located along the riverbanks in Buffalo’s historic Cobblestone District. Whether you’re visiting Buffalo for the first time and looking for fun things to do, needing somewhere to take the family for a day, seeking adventure with friends, or looking for a unique date night idea, Buffalo RiverWorks has it all!
Guests can grab a bite at one of their restaurants which range from locally sourced seafood dishes at H2O to German-style fare at Der Kommissar Beer Hall & Garden. The Ward features contemporary American cuisine served in an industrial rustic setting and both, indoor and outdoor, patio seating that stretches all the way from the ice rinks end of the building to the Buffal-O Ferris Wheel!
Afterwards, enjoy live music performances or take part in adventure activities such as ax throwing or climbing on their custom 20ft sky bridge obstacle course.
Rent a kayak, stand up paddleboard and hop on the Buffalo Tiki Tour. Seeking a thrilling adventure? Put your rock-climbing skills to the test as you scale the walls of the old grain silos. New this year is the addition of the Buffal-O Ferris wheel and Riverland!
Looking to catch one of the many amazing concerts or events happening at Buffalo Riverworks this summer? Check out the full event schedule on their website!
The Dockside Bar and Grill
The Dockside Bar and Grill is a great option for Tonawanda locals, or those experiencing the Niagara River and the Erie Canal for their first time. Head on over to the Dockside Bar and Grill after stopping by Collins Marine this season. Both located in Tonawanda, they are just a short distance from one another. The Dockside Bar and Grill is located directly on the beautiful Erie Canal. Built in 1890, the building originally stored feed for the mules that pulled the barges along the towpath of the canal.
Established in 2014, the building has been transformed into a casual waterfront dining destination near the Gateway Harbor of North Tonawanda. The restaurant is open year round, but the summer opens up the opportunity for live music and outdoor seating right on the water. Boaters can pull right up to the docks located at the foot of our expansive newly renovated patio.
Old Man River
Looks can be deceiving, but Old Man River is a must-try in Tonawanda. Located right on the Niagara River, it may seem like a run down metal shack, but when you see the gigantic blue whale on the roof of Old Man River, you’ll know you have arrived at one of WNY’s most iconic seasonal restaurants. What better place to “Enjoy the Taste of Summer” than overlooking the spectacular view of Niawanda Park and the Niagara River from one of Old Man River’s outdoor patios?
Old Man River offers something for everyone! From classic Sahlen hotdogs, to specialty sandwiches, seafood, and house cut fries, you are sure to find something to enjoy. Can’t find something you like? Hop on over next door to the famous Smokehouse BBQ & Seafood Shack! Whether it's family night, date night, or a night out with your friends, the Smokehouse BBQ & Seafood Shack has become a destination for great food, beer, and wine, along with live music. Old Man River’s Smokehouse BBQ and Seafood Shack specializes in BBQ Ribs, Chicken, Pulled Pork, fresh Clams, shrimp, lobster rolls with all the sides and specialty sauces. Catch some incredible live entertainment on the weekends! Old Man River is the perfect destination for some enjoyable summer dining and entertainment!
No matter where you choose to go for your dockside dining experience in the Buffalo Niagara region, one thing is certain — you’ll be treated to stunning scenery and some of the most delicious cuisine around! Stop by Collins Marine today to set sail out on the beautiful Buffalo-Niagara waters and then, try some of the best dockside food in the local area!
Collins Marine is ready to help you find the perfect watercraft to enjoy all season long! Check out our new and used inventory today, and stop in to see us in North Tonawanda!