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Dock & Dine: Your Guide to Lakeside Dining
- Editor - Lost on the Lake
- Jun 9
- 3 min read
There’s nothing quite like a summer day on Table Rock Lake. Sparkling water, scenic Ozark hills, the steady hum of a boat engine - and when hunger strikes, you don’t even have to head back to shore.
Table Rock is dotted with lakeside restaurants and floating cafes that welcome boaters with open arms and open docks. From hand-tossed pizza and grilled fish tacos to fine dining and tiki bars, there’s a dock & dine experience for every appetite.
Ready to chart your culinary course? Here’s a guide to the best boat friendly dining spots on Table Rock Lake.
Casual Eats & Comfort Food
The lake’s many coves and marinas hide some fantastic casual stops where you can tie up the boat and grab a great meal in your swimsuit.
Big Buoy’s is a go-to for burgers, cold beer, and live music- the kind of place where boaters linger for hours. Nearby, Stuffed and Pressed serves up craveable sandwiches and pressed paninis, perfect for a quick lake lunch.
Pizza is practically its own food group on Table Rock Lake. Boaters love Pier 28 Pizza & Grill at Port of Kimberling, Sharky’s Pizza at Lazy Lee’s Resort, and even the waterfront Pizza Hut in Shell Knob. Pizza World near Indian Point and Portside Pizza at Campbell Point Marina have you covered.
For a taste of the tropics, float over to Shady Taco Grill, where tacos, tequila, and margaritas rule the menu. Goofy Goose and Ride the Wave are lively stops for casual pub food and drinks, often paired with live entertainment.
Resort Dining & Upscale Options
Looking to elevate your lakeside meal? Several of the lake’s top resorts offer dock access and exceptional dining. At Big Cedar Lodge, boaters can enjoy the rustic elegance of Devil’s Pool Restaurant, or grab a quick bite from the Canteen at Long Creek Marina. Nearby, Chateau on the Lake Resort offers fine dining at the Chateau Grille, with stunning lake views. Lakeside Resort & Restaurant, near Kimberling City, is another favorite for comfort fare, served in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Floating Cafes & Family-Friendly Favorites
No boating adventure is complete without a visit to one of the lake’s charming floating cafes.
The Indian Point Floating Cafe and is an iconic lake stop known for hearty breakfasts and diner classics served right on the water.
Families love Watson’s on the Water at Shell Knob for its friendly vibe, live music, and lakeside eats.
At Bomber’s Bar & Grill at Big M Marina, boaters can relax with burgers, cold drinks, and lake views — an easygoing stop after a day of swimming or skiing.
Hidden Gems & Local Hangouts
Venture a little farther, and you’ll find a few more unique stops worth exploring.
Cricket Creek Marina, tucked away on the Arkansas side, offers a peaceful dock with a small café and store — perfect for a quiet lunch break.
Rock Island Tiki Bar brings island vibes to the lake with tropical drinks and light bites, ideal for sunset sips. SS Dockside offers ice cream, snacks, and a family-friendly atmosphere.
Tips for Dock & Dine Success
Call ahead: Some restaurants fill up fast or adjust hours seasonally.
Watch the weather: Windy afternoons can make docking tricky.
Plan ahead: Popular spots fill quickly on summer weekends - arrive early or late for the best shot at a slip.
Boat responsibly:
Always designate a sober captain.
Your Next Adventure Awaits
Dining by boat adds a whole new layer of fun to any Table Rock Lake adventure. Whether you’re chasing the perfect slice of pizza, craving a lakeside steak, or just looking for a spot to sip a margarita and watch the sun set, the lake’s dock & dine scene offers endless possibilities.
So fuel up the boat, grab your crew, and set a course for one of these delicious dockside destinations. The lake - and the menu - are calling.