For this five star review, I want to slightly preface that perhaps a small portion of why my wife and I had such a splendid experience at The Boat House was because of our timing, but I'll come back to that shortly because regardless of when we were there, I did love so much about this place. Recommended by almost any local you ask, The Boat House sits in the quieter Lambertville side of the bridge that connect this Jersey town to the slightly more bustling New Hope, PA. Down an Edison-lighted alleyway you'll find this small house for boats and ya know, it probably was a house (not sure about for boats) because it's pretty dang small. The night we were there I noticed there's some outdoor tables available, but really the interior downstairs area only fits a handful of folks. The upstairs can hold a bit more and that is where our timing lies. Somehow, we must have been early/lucky enough to hit The Boat House on a Friday evening when everyone was still out to dinner because the very friendly host sat us upstairs where we had the entire place to ourselves for almost our entire time there. Having the space added such an extra vibe to everything, especially because those creaky steps lead up to what really gives The Boat House its name as the ceiling is covered in maritime memorabilia. The walls, book shelves, and eclectic array of tables and chairs also adds to this. People or not, it is a true unique spot. But what really makes the place so great (besides the looks and the friendly staff who never stopped checking in on us) are the drinks. To start, my wife wasn't feeling alcohol and got an Aper-No Spritz which did the trick, though for myself, I dove into the intriguing list of specialty drinks that makes this place worth visiting. Round one was the Rower's Reserve which lists as a Boat House original and is gin-based with Amaro Nonino, sage, and blackberries to create some fantastic flavors. Round two I had to go with a personal favorite (with a twist) in the smoked honey Negroni which tasted exactly as it sounded. There were a bunch of other libations that also sounded intriguing, but that'll have to be for a future visit. Overall, there's a reason people from the area always suggest The Boat House. It's a true old fashioned maritime cocktail bar that gives you all the feels you'd want from a place like this. Perhaps this review is a little tainted in timing, but hey, maybe that'll give you a little motivation to get here on the earlier side and checkout the upstairs area for yourself. No matter if there's people up there or not, it's a good time here. Cheers! read more

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Stopped here for a midafternoon cocktail before heading to our B&B for the weekend. Sat on the outdoor patio which was lovely. Service was ok, but drinks were delicious. If what you're looking for is just a space to relax and drink yummy cocktails than this is your place. While it's off the main street it was certainly not hard to find as there were signs pointing down the alley. Also, just note that the bathroom is up a very steep and narrow set of stairs. read more

The Boat House - Upstairs of the bar - Bars Near Me - Lambertville, New Jersey

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cool out of the way bar. I didn't take photos of the interior but it was so cozy. Friendly server, outside is nice on a warm day. great drinks read more

The Boat House - Boat house exterior - Bars Near Me - Lambertville, New Jersey

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An old time favorite for the locals. An Intimate, comfortable spot for a quiet drink Friendly service read more

The Boat House - Me, my wife Sher and Matt Ward at the Boat House - Bars Near Me - Lambertville, New Jersey

I've been up by this place so many times and I've never knew this was here further up the driveway . Quirky and cute. Met up with some friends before an event in another part of town. Everyone was Enjoying their rolling rock and some ordered wine. A wonderful time! The decor inside is very interesting! So many tchotchkes and paintings and all different kinds of nautical art. Even the bathroom was top to bottom nautical art! We sat outside . It really was a nice evening. Service was fantastic. I would come back . read more

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I contacted The Boat House about availability and pricing for a private event using the email address that the Refined Hospitality (the ownership group) website expressly directs people to use for that purpose. No response. About 2 weeks later, I left a voicemail for The Boat House about availability and pricing for a private event using the phone number that the website expressly directs people to use for that purpose. No call back. A week and a half later, I'm in Lambertville and stop in to find out how to get in touch with these people. The server says hello and then abruptly, with absolutely no finesse, says "You can't bring outside drinks in here" gesturing at the third of an iced latte I have left on a 96 degree day. Cool bro, good thing I'm not here to eat or drink. But also, seriously? You're upset about the end of an iced latte on a hot day? And even so, you can't find a more tactful way to say it? After I explain I'm there because my attempts to get in touch with them using the information they provide for that purpose have failed, the server finds me the manager and tells him I'm there about hosting a private event. The manager immediately says he's sorry but he can't give me "a tour right now because its 6:30 on a Friday" and thus it's too busy. Cool bro, good thing I'm not here for a tour, but I'm glad both you and your staff have acted like I've done something wrong through my mere presence. After again explaining I'm there because my attempts to give them my business using the information they provide for that purpose have failed, the manger writes his direct email address down for me and tells me to contact him. Yep that's right, ME contact THEM for the fourth time. So I email the next day, Saturday. This time I get a response from the manager acknowledging my email, on the same day no less! He says my date is available and that he "will reach out again this Monday or Tuesday and discuss further." Great news, right? Wrong. That email response was three weeks ago, and it was the last I've heard from anyone associated with this place. 0 for customer service 0 for organization 0 for any sort of hospitality, let alone "refined" hospitality read more

Giving 3 stars out of nostalgia. Been coming to the Boat House for 20+ years and always loved its cozy, intimate, off-the-beaten-path vibe. Last fall it underwent new ownership, and although the place looks the same, the vibe has changed - much more corporate and much less welcoming. It's still tiny, but somehow it feels like a less intimate experience and has more of a "pay for your drinks, then move on" attitude. Sad. I might need to find a new favorite hang. read more

This is a really cool tiny bar. Hard to find but definitely worth the hunt. A must see. Tasted some great cocktails and different bottled beer. Be sure to check out both floors. Will most definitely be back next time I'm in the area. read more

The Boat House - Bars Near Me - Lambertville, New Jersey

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Went to the Boat House with friends. We've been there before for beverages (pre&post dinners) and had a decent time. Decided to go last night and the one employee was beyond rude. Placed was busy due to the holiday weekend and we understand. First, I was rudely addressed by the male server/manager as I tried to survey how crowded the bar was. After he scolded me to stand by the sign, nobody came to seat us or tell us the wait time. We took it upon ourselves to leave. Wouldn't have minded a wait, completely annoyed about the server/manager guy acting rude. read more

We had a great time grabbing cocktails at this hidden gem. My brother suggested this bar, and it did not disappoint. We arrived early, not knowing when it would get crowded on a Friday. Server and bartender were super friendly and knowledgeable. Cocktails were strong and on point! Look for the porkyard and Hamilton's grill... read more

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This is a "must visit" bar in Lambertville if you love quaint and charming ambiance and finely curated cocktails. We arrived on a Wednesday night to live music and the best server/manager who took time to get to know us--Andy! When I left my glasses-- he tracked us down at dinner to deliver them. Next level customer service and charm. Great Old fashioned! read more

The Boat House - Bars Near Me - Lambertville, New Jersey

***4 1/2 stars*** This is my new favorite place in Lambertville. My top tier chums and I had about half an hour to kill before our dinner reservations, so we stopped here first to kill some time and have a nip. After a few minutes, we called up the restaurant and pushed our reservations back - if that's not a ringing endorsement of this establishment, I don't know what is. We came here last Saturday around 5:30pm. One of my chums had done a bit of research on potential spots beforehand (we didn't do a lot of that, but it paid off here), and thought I'd like it because of the kitsch and the hidden gem appeal. It has both of those in droves. I grew up about 20 minutes north of Lambertville, and it was...odd to have trouble locating a business. After a few minutes of furrowing our brows at Google Maps, we figured it out and found it behind another business - but be aware that there are NO signs for this place. You have to earn your navigation badge into this establishment for sure. My first impression upon sitting down in their outdoor section was that it reminded me of some of the fun beachy dive bars in Folly Beach, SC (think Chico Feo, if you're familiar with that area) - it definitely has a South, mellow vibe going for it. We were waited on by I assume one of the proprietors (a striking resemblance to Mia Farrow), who was attentive and easy to hail down when needed. We all selected items from the cocktail menu, which was probably half classics (think Old Fashioneds and Margaritas) and then half edgier stuff. I of course went for the edgy, and selected (I THINK) the Cottager. I noticed a fellow patron several feet away sipping one and decided that I too needed to sip on something purple. It was pretty good; honestly though, it tasted a LITTLE too much like Snuggle detergent, so I just can't commit to a full-throated endorsement here. And no, I really don't have a clue what specific ingredient would have created that taste, but also keep in mind we're not 100% positive that's the drink I had either. Before we left, one of my chums went to use the bathroom. When she came back she told me I HAD to go inside and get a look around. Boy. There's a lot to take in. It certainly does feel like a boathouse, and without the proprietor pointing me in the right direction, I don't have a clue how long it would have taken to find the bathroom (which sort of feels like a speakeasy within a speakeasy situation). The bathroom was up in the attic/loft area, and like everything else in the building is absolutely covered with nautical-themed shizzle. I enjoyed gazing upon a picture of Tom Cruise and Paul Newman out on a little boat, which presumably was taken while they were filming The Color of Money (1986). I'm absolutely coming back, but I might set my sights on a cocktail that doesn't remind me of the laundromat. read more

The Boat House - The Cottager (I think). - Bars Near Me - Lambertville, New Jersey

Had a great experience at the Boat house! The manager, Andy, was anxious to accommodate everyone even though they were slammed. great drinks and lovely ambiance. Service was attentive and our NYC guests were enchanted with The Boat House vibe. For a unique experience-give yourself a treat! Very friendly servers-you'll feel like a regular even though it's your first time! Thanks, Andy, for a great experience! read more

Amazing low key, speakeasy-ish cocktail bar. Ambience is like a boat bar, cigar bar, and speak easy with antique furniture for seating. Well rounded cocktail, beer, wine list. Service was prompt and friendly. read more

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We understand that establishment is small and can't handle large group but all we wanted to do was bring our friend upstairs and show him around and not stay and owner was not kind at all and said no. His loss as we have told many about the rudeness read more

The decor is awesome and I love the ambiance. Long story short, I think the staff need a snack and a good nap. As others have said, they were bizarrely rude. We had been there for about 40 mins when the hostess came over and told my friend and I to wrap it up. She told us they were closing early because they are just "over it". It was honestly so weird. She then put on quite a show of stomping around and sighing loudly until we left. Thanks for the bizarre yet entertaining evening! read more

Tucked away off the street, outdoor seating and good, expertly prepared traditional drinks (aviation, old fashioned).

We used to LOVE this place. It was a special little "nugget". We were so excited to return to this place. The space is still special, the mixed drinks were awful. So sad. Definitely missing the old owners. I guess you're safe with beer and wine! read more

I'm glad I stumbled upon this very unique and cozy, intimate bar.It's a hidden gem located on Coryell St. just down the road from Finkle's Hardware Store and the Porkyard. They do not accept reservations. I really feel this is a word of mouth establishment and for a good reason. If your looking for a place to have a couple of well made old fashioned style drinks like a Manhattan, a Sidecar,Martini,wine or beer then the Boathouse is the place. It's a nice spot to come with a date, or meet a couple of friends to catch up, or family. (This is not a place for children or large groups because it's very small.) I had to walk down a long path to get to this ecentric and unique bar in Lambertsville. The first building has a small bar with nautical themed replicas like miniature boats, compasses, navigational equipment and everything that pertains to ships or a nautical theme.There is an upstairs with limited capacity for sitting inside, and the rooms are small but very cozy so I couldn't sit in the first building, it was full. I didn't mind because the second building was right next door, and it was available and open for sitting and getting drinks. I came early around 4p when they open. Outside there are plenty of tables and chairs and a covered tent for outdoor seating. Upon entering the 2nd building, there is also a small bar that is fully stocked and there's a few tables up in front, and then you go through another door to the back room and there's a few more tables with a long window that looks out into the yard. The room itself is very dark.It's a very comfortable, and relaxing atmosphere.You feel like you're in your grandma's home drinking growup classic cocktails. Hidden behind a door that looks like a closet, is a nice size single bathroom. The Boat House doesn't serve food.It's best to come here for drinks and then make a reservation at a nearby restaurant, or come after dinner for a nightcap. The staff was so very nice and accommodating. There is one server for every couple of tables. My server made some good recommendations when I asked her about wine. She recommended a French Pinot noir that was absolutely delicious, and my friend ordered a Manhattan. This is definitely my new favorite place to come and have a couple of drinks. read more

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Great place to hang out and grab a few drinks. The scenery was great and despite the hot temperatures if felt nice sitting in the shade. Only problem was my drink although looked good was not made well. Would try again but hopefully with a different bartender. read more

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This hole in the wall is worth the search if you love funky bars. It's across from Brian's (formerly Hamilton's Grill), which is down a little alley near the canal. Sit upstairs and you may feel like you're revisiting your fav college bar. Amazing service and all the classic cocktails: lemon drop, sidecar, manhattan, margarita.... read more

The Boat House - This hole in the wall is worth the search if you love funky bars. - Bars Near Me - Lambertville, New Jersey

Tis a real bar. I like it. Not a lot of space downstairs but they were perfectly happy to give me a table earlyish on a Saturday and serve me a proper Manhattan. read more

It a cute, cozy, small and quiet place to grab a drink before dinner. I really liked the decor and the drinks were good. read more

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This was such a unique bar experience. The drinks are fabulous and the service was wonderful. You feel right at home, so comfortable and intimate. I would recommend! read more

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The Boat House is like a bar out of a trashy book. This secluded spot is festooned in so much nautical-themed bric-à-brac you'll feel seasick (witness: a massive whaling harpoon hung on the ceiling above stairs inlaid with the names of past admirals). The drinks are Navy Strength. And the clientele seems to be exclusively older divorcées. It's a whole vibe. read more

What a perfect spot to meet friends for a drink before heading off to your dinner destination. Tucked back off the main drag, with parking hard to find (no shit, Sherlock), is this cozy, warm and fuzzy, antique-y, yester-year bar, with outdoor seating, pleasant service and great cocktails. This will become a regular stop for you, before or after dinner, when you are in the area. read more

Amazing cocktails! This spot is off the main road and tucked away, so a little hard to find. There are only a handful of table inside, but it's worth it for the ambience and drinks! read more

No parking. Off the beaten path.. the hostess jumps you before you get in and tell you they are full and you can't hang out outside, open tables. We come back 30 minutes later, 9:30, told they are closed. Who closes at 9:30 on a Friday night. Bullshit bar had people sitting and drinking just wanted a drink.. rude asshats.. read more

Teeny hidden gem down an alley (The Pork Yard) in historic Lambertville stacked floor to ceiling with boating ephemera, plants, model boats and everything nautical in between. Great for a date, aperitif or Sunday slow down just to re-center your otherwise hectic soul. My favorite bar, bar none. read more

The Boat House - Looking up to the 2nd Floor from the bar. - Bars Near Me - Lambertville, New Jersey

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Just like the name suggests, The Boathouse pays homage to all things boat related with old rustic characterful charm. Walking into the small hidden gem, the walls are covered head to toe with antique paintings, tin steins, hanging boats, navy signs and more. On a holiday weekend, I went with a group of 4 for after dinner drinks and although it's Sunday the place is packed. Sedate, quiet, elegant with jazz music playing and a hefty wine pour (approx $10 a glass), I walked out incredibly relaxed and pleased with our stay. read more

The Boat House - Walking upstairs The Boathouse in Lambertville, NJ - Bars Near Me - Lambertville, New Jersey

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Most adorable cocktail bar in the area! There are an assortment of very delicious cocktails to choose from, and a quaint inside seating area inside upstairs or downstairs, or in the backyard. This place is a must-go when you're walking around town! The decor inside the Boat House is so nautical and unique! I love to look at all of the cool stuff on the walls when I'm there. Great spot! read more

The atmosphere was just wonderful. It was so inviting and cozy especially upstairs. Service was amazing and it was just a nice escape from the day! We will definitely be coming back! read more

5* but don't tell anyone! Shhhhhhhh. We came after if you like jazzy jazz and chilkin' with your besties, before grabbing a bite to eat in town - DON'T go there!!! read more

The Boat House - USS US. - Bars Near Me - Lambertville, New Jersey

We came here on the first night of an autumn get-away weekend, and it was the perfect way to get it going. Great drinks, excellent service, nice people. Loved the atmosphere; extremely comfortable and inviting place, could have stayed there all night! I also like that it was so out-of-the-way. You had to work a little to find it; a bit like a speak-eazy. The only reason I did not give five stars is their lack of snacks; I get that they don't serve food, but they could have a couple more options other than crushed pretzels. read more

What a unique place. Warm, cozy, and comfortable. No craft beer here. This place is all about craft cocktails. We were lucky enough to get a spot on the couch upstairs. The room is set up to provide intimate conversation settings for tables of two but it didn't take very long before everyone was talking with everyone. It became our own little cocktail party. It is the go to spot for great drinks and great conversation in the area. The only problem is everyone else knows it too. So get there early! read more

Tiny bar kind if hard to find. Its a small building to the right when you enter the alley. Google maps show it to the left. They have a small drink menu. The meters out front only give you 15 minutes per quarter. There is an upstairs thats where the bathroom is. read more

My husband and I just enjoyed a great day in the area, wine tasting and dinner, then I saw the Yelp reviews for this place and the pictures were great! I was pretty excited for a well made old fashioned. I walked through the first door, and the hostess opened the second door and as I went to step in, she stopped me abruptly and explained that there wasn't much seating available and maybe I'd like to go to the "cottage" instead. I looked inside through the glass, and there were at least 8 open seats on the first floor that I could see. Not including the bar seating. I don't know where the cottage was, but I just explained that I'd like to come in and have a drink. At this moment, I wasn't really catching onto what happened just then. She was blocking the doorway while convincing me that we were not welcomed. She reluctantly let me in, with a dry "okkkkk" as she moved away from the door. My husband and I are African American. I am biracial. There weren't any other people that looked like us there and it was obvious the hostess was uncomfortable. I wasn't upset, I wasn't angry, I was just very very sad. It's not something that I think about often, or focus all my energy on because I know it exists and will continue to exist. I guess in my naivety, I just didn't see it coming and it shocked me. I sat down, ordered a drink, and a tear dropped... I felt uncomfortable, even thought to leave and not spend my money there but I couldn't move. My husband and I had two drinks each as we chatted, wished the couple sitting next to us a great evening, thanked the bartender and left. Just a word of advice for the hostess, have the same smile on your face for all patrons that come to your establishment. I watched the interactions as people arrived and the place filled up and she smiled and accommodated everyone who came to the door with a warm welcome. Other than that, the decor is beautiful, the Old Fashioned's were good. Our waitress was attentive and I can appreciate the no cellphone policy to encourage conversation. I'd like to say that I'd come back, and I'd hope I'd receive a different welcoming. I hope..... read more

Cool hidden bar. Not a lot of seating. Very old school place with a lot to look at. The drinks are good but very pricey! No food served.

This is one of my top 5 favorite bars in the world. It's that unique. The drinks are great and food is way above average.

Great pre dinner bar Bartender knew his stuff quintessential Lambertville establishment thanks