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Long Beach › Long Beach › Boathouse on the Bay
Boathouse on the BayBWorth Trying
4100 Donald Douglas Dr, Long Beach, CA 90806
· American restaurant
· 4.7/5 Google (1596 reviews)
Takeout · Outdoor seating
A rare sit-down option inside LGB with standout bartenders and quick-turn comfort seafood, but pricing is steep and service quality swings from great to frustrating.
Why it gets a B for overall quality
Boathouse on the Bay delivers solid neighborhood-restaurant quality within an airport setting, anchored by strong food quality in signature items like fish and chips and mahi sandwich, plus attentive service from bartenders who build genuine customer relationships. Inconsistent execution on fried items and breakfast prevents a higher grade, while airport-premium pricing and tight quarters limit broader appeal—but for travelers seeking a proper meal before departure, it exceeds typical airport dining standards.
Restaurant Summary
Inside LGB, Boathouse on the Bay feels like a real sit-down spot among kiosks, with bartenders who know regular flyers by name. Travelers describe a friendly bar scene and quick ticket times when it clicks: "Food came fast and our server timed everything around boarding." Expect a bustling pre-flight crowd and occasional tight quarters in the courtyard. The cooking leans classic coastal American with comfort seafood, steaks, and a compact sushi list. Highlights include a hefty fish and chips and a well-regarded mahi sandwich, while fried appetizers and breakfast draw mixed notes if the kitchen is slammed. Prices carry an airport premium, but many feel it delivers decent value for a proper meal before takeoff. Families fare well here: there is a dedicated kids menu (tenders, grilled cheese, mini cheeseburger) and straightforward sides. Picky eaters can lean on burgers, rolls, and simple salads. Just budget for airport pricing, and arrive with a little extra time if traveling with kids.
At a Glance
- Beloved bartenders deliver personable service and smart timing for flights
- Hearty fish and chips and a solid mahi sandwich win repeat praise
- Airport-premium pricing on drinks and mains
- Inconsistent execution on fried items and breakfast at peak times
- Space can feel cramped during boarding waves
What Sets It Apart
- beloved_bartenders
- courtyard_airport_seating
- full_seafood_menu_inside_terminal
What People Love
- Warm, memorable bartenders
- Faster-than-expected ticket times
- Big portions on fish dishes
- Courtyard vibe that feels less like a terminal
- Servers who tailor pacing to flights
Points of Concern
- Pricing is genuinely expensive (many mains $30+ and cocktails priced high) which may surprise casual diners
- Service inconsistency appears around shift changes and rushes; a few reports of dismissive interactions
- Fried appetizers and breakfast quality can dip when busy (overcooked or lukewarm sides)
- Crowded layout leads to bumping and tight seating during peak times
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$48-72 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- For lighter spend, pair Calamari ($15) with a Vegetarian Roll ($11) and share dessert ($8-10).
- Seafood mains run $32-38; choose salad ($10-14) as a value starter instead of another appetizer.
Perfect For
- Pre-flight sit-down meal with drinks
- Business traveler looking for full-service inside security
- Seafood fans who want a real plate before boarding
- Families needing a kids menu at the gate
Location Insights
Area: Inside LGB terminal near Gate 4, serving time-pressed travelers seeking a sit-down meal and bar service.
Safety: Airport-secured area with good lighting, frequent staff presence, and consistent foot traffic.
Nearby: Adjacent to gates and other grab-and-go vendors; small courtyard and bar seating noted by guests.
NaplesNaples is a picturesque, upscale neighborhood famous for its canals and waterfront homes. The dining scene here often features seafood and casual upscale restaurants catering to locals and visitors enjoying the marina and beach lifestyle.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday06:00–18:00
Tuesday06:00–18:00
Wednesday06:00–18:00
Thursday06:00–18:00
Friday06:00–18:00
Saturday06:00–18:00
Sunday06:00–18:00
Available: Takeout, Outdoor seating
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