The Loeb Boathouse - Central Park

The Loeb Boathouse is without a doubt one of the most famous icons of Central Park. The first boathouse was built in 1874, that one neglected and torn down eventually in 1950. The iconic Loeb Boathouse was built in 1954 and financed by Carl Loeb, the filantrhopist. Now it's both a place to rent rowing boats, as well as a place to have a snack, drink on the terrace, not to forget the full on restaurant experience. The restaurant has been used in several movies; When Harry met Sally, and more recently in the romantic comedy 27 dresses amongst others.

Of course my experience of the Loeb Boathouse in Central Park couldn't have started better. As me and my friend were walking up to grab lunch on a regular Wednesday we saw two people rowing on the lake outside the restaurant. As we looked closer we realized that the rowing had stopped, and we were witnessing a proposal. I had thought getting proposed to on a rowing boat in Central Park only happened in movies, but it most definitely lifted our spirit to realize romance is not dead!

We had not made any reservations, which even in the middle of the week is a bad decision. Fortunately there's a little patio/terrace where you can sit and enjoy some sparkling wine in the sun while waiting. I believe we waited something like 45min, which ususally is a lot for lunch, yet somehow sitting in a park surrounded by people, drinking sparkling wine, taking in sun, time just flew by...

The staff was super friendly and there really is no "bad" seat in the restaurant. Of course you're more lucky if you get to sit right by the water, but all tables are facing that direction so you are guaranteed a great view. We had decided to go all in this lunch, so for starter I had the Ahi Tuna tartar. Tuna tartar is one fo those things I love riddiculously much. I especially enjoyed this one, because it came with a crisp that cut the soft texture of the tuna.

As my main course, I had the whitefish crusted with pistacchio, served with fresh cucumber and a youghurt dressing. Because of the texture of whitefish I was in love with the idea to serve it with a pistacchio crust, not just for the taste, but to once again to break the softness. Then using yoghurt as a base for the dressing was brilliant, because it didn't add fat to the dish, instead it became an incredibly fresh experience. I have critiziced Muru for their whitefish. Ultimately it's personal taste, I just enjoyed this way better.

This might sound strange, but as much as I love to bake, I'm not a huge sweet thooth myself. For me the perfect finish to a perfect meal, is with a perfectly made cappucino. That was the end of this lunch as well.

All in all, probably the most expensive lunch I've had (around $100 including wine). Then again why always go all in on dinner? Of course a boathouse experience need not be this expensive, however I would almost recommend it for lunch - a long lunch so you can enjoy the view and the ambiance.