Hello there, Sue! Welcome to planDisney. I'm so glad you've stopped by to chat about one of my favorite things at Walt Disney World - dining!
The BOATHOUSE at Disney Springs is my favorite spot for a meal while on vacation at Walt Disney World. This is a place I recommend to just about everyone. The restaurant itself is just beautiful with plenty of seating inside and out. If it is a nice evening, it is a perfect place to sit outside and watch the sunset over the lake at Disney Springs.
The menu is so diverse, even the pickiest of eaters can find something delicious. My current go-to order is the lobster roll served warm with butter and I always upgrade to the truffle fries. Delicious! If you find that you have room for a sweet treat after your meal, I recommend the key lime pie in a jar. It's light, refreshing and just so good. I'm really excited that you are planning on dining there, Sue.
The BOATHOUSE is very popular and can fill up quickly. However, it isn't owned by Disney so you do actually have some other options to modify your reservation. First, you can check the app, OpenTable. I've been very lucky to secure reservations through that site when none were available through the Disney website. If nothing is available there, you can actually call the restaurant directly at 407-939-2628 and speak to someone about your reservation. If all else fails, I would just show up for your dinner with the extra people in your party. The BOATHOUSE is extremely accommodating with Guests and while you may have to wait a little bit longer, I don't think they'd have a problem working your extra Guests in. I did also want to mention that seating outside around the bar area and seating at both bars inside (there's one tucked away in the back) are always first-come, first-serve. Often times I won't even bother to make a reservation and am able to squeeze in at one of those spots no problem. So if your Guests can't be worked in but would still like to dine at The BOATHOUSE this is the route I would go.
I hope this helps, Sue. If you have any other questions before your trip, please feel free to stop back by and
ask me. I'm happy to help. Enjoy and happy planning!