After a day on the water, loading the boat up on the trailer can be so exhausting. If you're ready to chow down, skip the hard part and check out these boat-accessible restaurants and bars.
Floating Dock Bar at Queen's Landing Located on a dock, this bar is an easy stop for boaters looking to guzzle a cold one before resuming their tread on the water. 1459 River Highway, Mooresville. 704-663-2628. www.queenslanding.com. From the water: Marker 17 Green.
Jack's Lakeside Grill at Queen's Landing This eatery is situated beside the floating dock, though it's on the ground and not in the water. Come to this spot if you're in need of some grub instead of just the booze. Jack's Lakeside Grill, 1459 River Highway, Mooresville. 704-663-2628. www.queenslanding.com. From the water: Marker 17 Green.
Vinnie's Sardine Grill & Raw Bar There's nothing like a day out on the water to leave your tummy grumbling for some seafood. Luckily, this restaurant and bar that resembles a big ol' seafood shack has a menu full of creatures from the sea — crab legs, raw oysters, steamed shrimp, mussels and fish reign supreme — and from land (chicken, beef and pork options too). That way, you don't have to resort to eating fish from the lake — because you probably shouldn't be (Shame on you if you haven't read the warning signs!). Vinnie's Sardine Grill & Raw Bar, 643 Williamson Road, Mooresville. 704-799-2090. www.vinniesrawbar.com.
Rusty Rudder Another restaurant with lots of options that don't stray from the familiar fare. Fish tacos, salads, soups, sandwiches and seafood options are plentiful. Weekends draw crowds and feature live music. Rusty Rudder, 20210 Henderson Road, Cornelius. 704-892-9195. www.therustyrudder.net.
North Harbor Club Restaurant & Bar An upscale dining option that's actually affordable (though its still a bit more pricier than the other options listed here). The menu features a mix of flavorful and well presented dishes. Dress code is casual to fancy, but don't show up in a bikini or you'll be turned away. North Harbor Club Restaurant & Bar, 100 N Harbor Place Drive, Davidson. 704-896-5559. www.northharborclub.com.
T-Bones Steakhouse & Saloon Located right along Lake Wylie, this is the place to go for a filling meal before resuming your boating adventures. Burgers, sandwiches, salads, seafood and steak are on the roster. T-Bones Steakhouse & Saloon, 3990 Highway 49, Lake Wylie. 803-831-0170. www.tbonesonthelake.com.
