Rick's Café Boatyard
A vibrant waterfront jazz club on Eagle Creek Reservoir offering a diverse seafood-focused menu and stunning sunset views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Blue hour photography, calmer galleries
Rick's Café Boatyard
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant waterfront jazz club on Eagle Creek Reservoir offering a diverse seafood-focused menu and stunning sunset views.
"Enjoy memorable waterfront dining with delicious seafood and cocktails while watching the sunset over the reservoir."
Reserve for Water View
Book in advance for a prime table with a water view to enhance your dining experience.
Embrace Leisurely Evenings
Service can be slower during busy times, so plan for a relaxed meal with good food and cocktails.
Quick Facts
Cuisine
Seafood, American
Price
$$$
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Stunning Waterfront Sunsets
Dine with breathtaking views of Eagle Creek Reservoir, especially magical during sunset.
Exceptional Seafood & Cocktails
Savor expertly prepared seafood and delicious cocktails with a beautiful lakeside ambiance.
Family Tradition & Special Occasions
A beloved spot for creating lasting memories and celebrating special moments with attentive service.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Menu
Most Popular Items
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Reserve for Water View
Book in advance for a prime table with a water view to enhance your dining experience.
Embrace Leisurely Evenings
Service can be slower during busy times, so plan for a relaxed meal with good food and cocktails.
Don't Skip Dessert
The one-pound chocolate cake is a must-try, with other delicious dessert options available.
Arrive for Sunset
Visit on sunny days or during sunset for the most picturesque and breathtaking views.
Tips
from all over the internet
Reserve for Water View
Book in advance for a prime table with a water view to enhance your dining experience.
Embrace Leisurely Evenings
Service can be slower during busy times, so plan for a relaxed meal with good food and cocktails.
Don't Skip Dessert
The one-pound chocolate cake is a must-try, with other delicious dessert options available.
Arrive for Sunset
Visit on sunny days or during sunset for the most picturesque and breathtaking views.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Diners rave about Rick's Cafe Boatyard for its stunning waterfront views, especially during sunset, and its diverse seafood menu paired with strong cocktails. The attentive service and inviting atmosphere make it a favorite for special occasions and family traditions. While the food is generally praised, some guests have noted inconsistencies with dish temperature, and service can be slow during peak hours, necessitating a leisurely dining pace.
"A Longtime Favorite That Keeps Getting Better!
We’ve been coming to Rick’s Café Boatyard since it first opened, and it’s been amazing to see how much it has grown over the years. The food, service, and atmosphere have consistently improved, making each visit better than the last. The waterfront setting by Eagle Creek Reservoir is one of the most beautiful in Indianapolis, especially during sunset.
The staff is friendly, attentive, and truly seems to care about your experience. The seafood is fresh, the steaks are cooked to perfection, and their cocktails never disappoint. Whether it’s a casual lunch or a special dinner, Rick’s always delivers.
Highly recommend making a reservation if you want a table with a water view, it’s absolutely worth it.
Rick’s is more than just a restaurant to us; it’s a part of our family tradition now. Thanks to the team for continually raising the bar!"
Ozgur Coskun
"I was visiting from out of town and we decided to check out this lovely spot. We chose the screened outdoor seating area and were greeted right away, which was a nice surprise! As soon as we sat down, our drink orders were taken, Meal order taken and before we knew it, our meals arrived in 10 minutes. The food was amazing, and the portions were larger than we expected, so we happily took some home for later!"
shawn dixon
"Love this place. Perfect place to go on a nice sunny day or for a date night. Great views overlooking the lake, good food and strong cocktails. It can get very busy so service can be slow. But we went there to spend the evening so were not in a hurry. The seafood and desserts are amazing"
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What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
Visiting during sunset offers the most picturesque views. Sunny days are also ideal for enjoying the outdoor seating and waterfront ambiance.
Reservations are highly recommended, especially if you desire a table with a water view.
Reviewers often praise the seafood selections, signature entrees, and the famous one-pound chocolate cake for dessert.
Service can be slower during peak times, so it's best to plan for a relaxed, leisurely evening to fully enjoy the food and atmosphere.
Yes, the restaurant is also a jazz club and often features live music, adding to the lively atmosphere.
Yes, the restaurant is noted as a great spot for group dining experiences and offers private venue options.
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Address: 4050 Dandy Trail, Indianapolis, IN 46254Phone:+1 (317) 290-9300Website:ricksboatyard.comDetails: $$, Seafood restaurant. Nestled in Indianapolis, Rick’s Café Boatyard offers a memorable brunch experience with its friendly staff, inviting atmosphere, and delectable menu. The service at Rick’s Café Boatyard is prompt and attentive, ensuring that guests feel well taken care of throughout their visit.
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Located right on the edge of Eagle Creek Reservoir, Rick's is the place to be if you want some waterside atmosphere. It's no secret that Eagle Creek is one of the prettiest parts of Indianapolis, with hiking trails, forests, and parks galore, but throw in Rick's and you've got the whole shebang. Rick's has great cocktails, good seafood, and live music (normally on the jazzier side).
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One of my favorite places to eat, that just happens to have a great view, is Rick’s Café Boatyard. Located overlooking Eagle Creek Reservoir, Rick’s has good food, often a lively band, and views for days. Come over for dinner, or try lunch or Sunday brunch then head over to Eagle Creek Park for a boat ride at the marina, hike, or visit to the Eagle Creek Park Ornithology Center!
Group Dining Experiences | Visit Indy
SERVING: Lunch/Dinner CUISINE: Seafood/ Steak PRICE: $$ LOCATION: West 4050 Dandy Tr., Indianapolis, IN 46254 PHONE: 317-290-9300 WEB: rickscafeboatyard.com. Waterfront dining is served up at Rick’s along the beautiful Eagle Creek reservoir. Featuring fresh seafood, steaks and cocktails, groups flock to Rick’s for the sunsets, boats and excellent service.
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Located on the waterfront of Eagle Creek’s Reservoir, Rick’s Café Boatyard can be considered dinner with a view. When ordering, you can expect fresh seafood, as well as steaks that are locally sourced for your enjoyment. Rick’s Café Boatyard also offers a carryout option and opportunities to celebrate your event in one of their private venues.
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Witness the sunset on Eagle Creek Reservoir while biting into crispy tempura fried shrimp out on the deck at Rick’s Cafe Boatyard. This seafood-savvy restaurant leaves you full, happy, and dazzled by the fresh Florida red grouper, Rick’s recommended Creole crab filet, and the waterfront seating. 4050 Dandy Trail, 317-290-9300
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Located on the Eagle Creek reservoir, Rick’s Boatyard is the perfect spot for outside dining by the docks. Every inside table has waterfront views, and the restaurant offers Sunday brunch and live jazz music in the evenings. One of the most romantic places in indianapolis.
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Rick’s food is solid with a deep menu and plentiful portions. When I went, I didn’t make it past the appetizer. I shared baked goat cheese (fresh goat cheese rolled in crouton crumbs over marinara sauce with pistachio pesto french bread) and the barbecue pork nachos.
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4050 Dandy TrailIndianapolis, IN 46254(317) 290-9300 Visit Website See Menu Open in Google Maps. Rick’s Cafe Boatyard is a light and airy eatery and jazz club on Eagle Creek Reservoir that debuted in 1994 and has a broad menu with a focus on seafood.
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It specializes in seafood, steaks, and pasta and overlooks the Eagle Creek Reservoir. It was voted one of Indy’s Top 25 Restaurants and you will see why when you visit. It’s a mix of cozy and contemporary with incredible views and food that matches.
Highest-rated Brunch Restaurants in Indianapolis, According to Tripadvisor
- Rating: 4.0 / 5 (542 reviews)- Detailed ratings: Food (4.0/5), Service (4.0/5), Value (4.0/5), Atmosphere (4.5/5)- Type of cuisine: American, Bar- Price: $$ - $$$- Address: 4050 Dandy Trail, Indianapolis, IN 46254-9741- Read more on Tripadvisor
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The deck at Rick’s Cafe Boatyard is known as the go-to destination for that “vacation feeling” without ever having to leave town. Share your sunset photo on Instagram from your table and let your friends think you’ve left town for the weekend.
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Rick’s Cafe Boatyard: Located at 4050 Dandy Trail on the waterfront of Eagle Creek’s Reservoir, this place is known for serving fresh seafood, steaks, pastas and craft cocktails. It’s also a great place to catch the Indy sunset.
The Best Places Around Indy for Outdoor Dining
Do you love surf and turf, good wine and a relaxing time outside?. Then head over to Rick’s Cafe, where the waterfront restaurant offers a panoramic view of Eagle Creek Reservoir and some of the best steaks and seafood in town.
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Ricks Cafe Boatyard is on the waterfront of Eagle Creek's Reservoir. It is bright and breezy, known for its seafood and prime steaks. If you are looking for a more fancy option, this restaurant is definitely for you!
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Rick’s Cafe Boatyard will help you pretend you’re on vacation when really you’re just a short drive from home. Enjoy the wrap-around waterfront view on the Eagle Creek Reservoir and delicious seafood.
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Price: From $40 for a half tower of mimosa + price of brunch dish. Rick’s Café Boatyard is an Indianapolis icon. It’s a waterfront spot on Eagle Creek’s Reservoir, and it’s a really special place.
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Overlooking Eagle Creek Reservoir, Rick’s Café Boatyard has a picturesque vista of one of the largest municipal parks in the country. The patio is covered and has heaters.
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Rick’s Café Boatyard, 4050 Dandy Trail | Have your oysters with a view of Eagle Creek Reservoir. Plus, check out Rick’s new brunch menu if you stop by on Sunday.
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4050 Dandy Trail, Indianapolis, IN 46254Phone: 317-290-9300 Visit Website. View this post on Instagram. A post shared by Rick’s Cafe Boatyard (@ricks_boatyard)
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If your kids love being by the water, Rick’s Café Boatyard offers scenic views of Eagle Creek Reservoir and a diverse menu with plenty of kid-friendly options.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit