Enable JavaScript to run this app.
Skip to main content
OpenTable logo
McLoone's Boathouse, West Orange, NJ

McLoone's Boathouse

4.2
4.2
3811 Reviews
$30 and under
American
9 Cherry Lane, West Orange, NJ 07052

Make a reservation

2 people
7:00 PM
Booked 37 times today
Experiences are available.

About this restaurant

  • Great for outdoor dining
  • Great for scenic views
  • Lively
Located within the South Mountain Recreation Complex,

McLoone's Boathouse sits on the banks of the reservoir, showcasing spectacular views to our customers.

The offerings range from fresh seafood to hand-cut steaks, as well as pastas, burgers, salads & homemade desserts.

We also host Private & Semi-Private Events as we have banquet coordinators on site.

Dining areas

Additional information

  • Dining style
    Casual Dining
  • Price
    $30 and under
  • Cuisines
    American, Seafood, Contemporary American
  • Hours of operation
    Brunch Sun 10:30 am–3:00 pm Lunch Mon–Sat 11:00 am–4:00 pm Dinner Mon–Sat 4:00 pm–10:00 pm Sun 3:00 pm–9:00 pm
  • Phone number
  • Payment options
    AMEX, Discover, Mastercard, Visa
  • Dress code
    Casual Dress
  • Executive chef
    Trey Barnes
  • Catering
    We cater to business meeting, showers, birthdays, and wedding celebrations. With three different size private spaces and a variety of different menus, we can accommodate a wide variety of functions!
  • Private party facilities
    Located within the South Mountain Recreation Complex, McLoone's Boathouse sits on the banks of the reservoir, showcasing spectacular views to our customers. Keeping with the tradition of Tim McLoone's other locations, the menu offers American cuisine that appeals to the entire family.
  • Neighborhood
    West Orange
  • Cross street
    Northfield Ave
  • Parking details
    Self Parking<br />
  • Public transit
    NJ Transit 73
  • Entertainment
    Entertainment every Friday and Saturday night at 9pm.
  • Additional
    Banquet, Bar/Lounge, Beer, Cocktails, Delivery, Entertainment, Full Bar, Gluten-free Options, Happy Hour, Indoor Fireplace, Late Night, Non-Smoking, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Private Room, Takeout, Vegan, View, Weekend Brunch, Wheelchair Access, Wine

Experiences

  • Sunday Brunch at McLoone's Boathouse

    Multiple dates available
    Join us for a delightful Sunday Brunch at McLoone's Boathouse, where you'll receive a complimentary Mimosa or Bellini with your meal. Enjoy our diverse menu for just $44.95 for adults and $16.95 for children ages 3 to 11. For more details, visit our website at www.mcloonesboathouse.com!
  • Seton Hall Graduation Celebration

    May 19, 2025 only
    Come celebrate with us at McLoone's Boathouse for a fantastic lunch buffet, exclusively (but not limited too) for Seton Hall graduates and their families! The buffet will feature a variety of sandwiches and wraps, vegetable crudités, smoked salmon, assorted breads, salads, hot dishes, and a selection of sweet pastries and fresh fruit for dessert. The cost is $38.95 for adults and $14.95 for children. The buffet will be available from 1:30 pm to 4:30 pm. Reserve your spot today and join us in making this special day unforgettable!

What 3,811 people are saying

McLoone's Boathouse reviews from people who’ve dined at this restaurant. Based on recent rating.

Overall ratings and reviews

Reviews can only be made by diners who have eaten at this restaurant

4.2
4.2 based on recent ratings
  • 4.2Food
  • 4.2Service
  • 4.4Ambience
  • 4Value

NoiseModerate

Loved For

  • Essex

    Great for brunch

  • Essex

    Kid-friendly

  • Essex

    Great for outdoor dining

  • Essex

    Most Booked

Review summary

AI-generated from verified diner reviews
McLoone's Boathouse offers a "beautiful environment" with stunning views and a cozy ambiance, especially around the fireplace. The menu features a good variety of dishes including popular brunch options. While some reviews mention "excellent food and service," experiences can be inconsistent, with occasional service delays and mixed feedback on food quality. The restaurant shines during holiday events and is "family-friendly," making it a charming choice for special occasions.

3,811 Reviews
  1. Tara

    New York City1 review

    1.0

    Dined 2 days ago

    1. Overall 1
    2. Food 1
    3. Service 1
    4. Ambience 1
    We made a reservation for Mother's Day weeks in advance, as we wanted to secure a table for the special occasion. When booking on OpenTable, I was given the option of standard a la carte or buffet. We discussed it and decided that we were not interested in the buffet, as we have some food restrictions which would significantly limit our options with a buffet. Having eaten at this restaurant before, and having looked at the menu, we knew that there would be a la carte options. Therefore, we chose the a la carte. Satisfied with this option, we booked a table for three people. When we got there, we were taken to a tiny table for two people that was in a high traffic area, right by the server station. When I explained that I had made a reservation for three people weeks in advance, I was told that a third chair could be added to the table. That was not acceptable, as the table itself was too small to accommodate plates for three people and since it was in such a high-traffic area, it was already too crowded. I said that I would have understood if we had just walked in, but that I expected to be accommodated for three people, since I had made a reservation for such well in advance. We then had to walk back to the hostess area to wait for a resolution. We were finally told that another two-top could be added to the table to create a sufficient amount of space. Although it was still an awkward area, with the servers' behinds right next to the face of one of the people in our party every time they had to enter an order, we accepted this resolution. The server explained that although another customer had also said the same thing about previously selecting a la carte, buffet was the only option on this day. I said that I wasn't going to pay $50 or so person when we couldn't eat most of the food on the buffet. A manager came and lied, gaslighted us, told us there was never an a la option option. We had to leave after much hassle and rush to find an alternate place to eat.

    Is this helpful?

  2. Lisa

    New Jersey2 reviews

    1.0

    Dined 2 days ago

    1. Overall 1
    2. Food 1
    3. Service 2
    4. Ambience 2
    Mother's Day buffet dinner was at 5:00 pm and we were seated promptly. The table seemed clean but not prepared. We had to "flag" down a waiter to get water after waiting 20 minutes at the table. The waitress was friendly and appeared to be responsible for more tables than a person could possibly handle. The restaurant was over booked, I don't understand why, they charge you $25 per person upon making a reservation. Crowds of people throughout the restaurant standing and waiting for a table. Honestly, felt like we were in a cafeteria. We got in line for the buffet, the waitress told us they had just put fresh food out. There was not fresh trays out nor anyone helping with the serving, everyone touching the tongs and the tongs falling in and touching the food. Very unsanitary! No hot food to be found, lukewarm at best. The french fries were stale. No ham, no salad, dressing, food replacement timing was completely off. I expect an establishment that runs buffets for this long should have it perfected.

    Is this helpful?

  3. Nicole

    New York City3 reviews

    5.0

    Dined 2 days ago

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Enjoyed Mother’s Day Brunch. Thank you to the staff for making the experience pleasant!

    Is this helpful?

  4. OpenTable Diner

    New York City1 review

    1.0

    Dined 2 days ago

    1. Overall 1
    2. Food 1
    3. Service 4
    4. Ambience 3
    Went to McLoones for Mother’s Day and it was a zoo!! Never again. I made reservations a month in advance and called to check if I could move my time up - they said it was sold out and they started taking a waiting list. When we arrived, there was so many people standing outside and the front lobby was packed. It was a fire hazard. They were taking walk-ins so reservations were getting pushed back by up to half an hour. When we finally got seated and got to the buffet, the food trays were empty, no plates available and people were standing around everywhere. For a venue that is usually good for Sunday brunch, this was extremely disappointing. I had to complain to a manager for them to finally refill the food trays. Suggestion for future big events - limit the walk-ins so that patrons that make effort to make reservations in advance have a pleasant experience.
    McLoone's BoathouseResponded 2 days ago
    Hello, Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback with us. We sincerely apologize for the experience you had during your recent visit. It is our goal to provide every guest with a memorable dining experience, and it is clear we fell short in your case. Please know that we take your feedback seriously and are using it to improve our service and dining experience. We would love the opportunity to make it up to you and restore your faith in us. If you decide to give us another chance or to just talk about this, please feel free to reach out to me directly at 862-252-7108, and I will personally ensure that your next visit is exceptional. Thank you once again for your feedback, and we hope to welcome you back soon. Warm regards, Deanna McBain General Manager McLoone's Boathouse

    Is this helpful?

  5. Dayle

    New York City25 reviews

    1.0

    Dined 2 days ago

    1. Overall 1
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 1
    4. Ambience 3
    We were seated and sat waited 20 minutes I had to get up and ask to even get water. I think his name was Christian it was not even his section but he was kind enough to serve our table. We were seated at 8pm left the restaurant at 1015 that’s crazy clearly there is too much being put on the staff. The manager did not even seem to care and looked right at our table. Just disappointed as we truly do like this restaurant.
    McLoone's BoathouseResponded 2 days ago
    Hello, Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback with us. We sincerely apologize for the experience you had during your recent visit. It is our goal to provide every guest with a memorable dining experience, and it is clear we fell short in your case. Please know that we take your feedback seriously and are using it to improve our service and dining experience. We would love the opportunity to make it up to you and restore your faith in us. I am going to send you a separate private email in regards to this. Thank you once again for your feedback, and we hope to welcome you back soon. Warm regards, Deanna McBain General Manager McLoone's Boathouse

    Is this helpful?

  6. Eric

    New York City1 review

    1.0

    Dined 2 days ago

    1. Overall 1
    2. Food 3
    3. Service 1
    4. Ambience 3
    The absolute worst service I have ever experienced. 45 minutes before they even offered water or took our drink order. The table was never cleared of appetizer plates or consumed beverages. We had to dine amidst the ridiculous clutter. The only thing they managed to do quickly was to bring the check so they could go home.
    McLoone's BoathouseResponded 2 days ago
    Hello, Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback with us. We sincerely apologize for the experience you had during your recent visit. It is our goal to provide every guest with a memorable dining experience, and it is clear we fell short in your case. Please know that we take your feedback seriously and are using it to improve our service and dining experience. We would love the opportunity to make it up to you and restore your faith in us. I am going to send you a separate private email in regards to this. Thank you once again for your feedback, and we hope to welcome you back soon. Warm regards, Deanna McBain General Manager McLoone's Boathouse

    Is this helpful?

  7. craig

    Philadelphia8 reviews

    1.0

    Dined 3 days ago

    1. Overall 1
    2. Food 1
    3. Service 1
    4. Ambience 1
    I had a 730 reservation and arrived at 731 waited for others in line and checked in with the hostess who asked if we wanted inside or out - told her inside like I had Checked off online, then if we wanted a hi top or table - table, said ok. Waited on the side for 10 minutes with no communication- asked what was going on - asked name again and then sat 2 mins later at a table that had no water glasses or silverware and waited 10 mins while no one came by and acknowledged our presence - got up and walked out unnoticed / went 5 mins away and had a great meal with great service.
    McLoone's BoathouseResponded 2 days ago
    Hello, Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback with us. We sincerely apologize for the experience you had during your recent visit. It is our goal to provide every guest with a memorable dining experience, and it is clear we fell short in your case. Please know that we take your feedback seriously and are using it to improve our service and dining experience. We would love the opportunity to make it up to you and restore your faith in us. I would love to speak more on this if you would give a call directly at 862-252-7108, I would love to try to make this up to you. Thank you once again for your feedback, and we hope to welcome you back soon. Warm regards, Deanna McBain General Manager McLoone's Boathouse

    Is this helpful?

  8. Kelly

    New York City7 reviews

    4.0

    Dined 3 days ago

    1. Overall 4
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Nate, our server, went above and beyond! The food was made to order.
    McLoone's BoathouseResponded 2 days ago
    Hello, Thank you so much for sharing your experience with us! We are so happy that you enjoyed yourself and can not wait to see you again next time! Warm Regards, Deanna McBain General Manager McLoone's Boathouse

    Is this helpful?

  9. Jamie

    New York City3 reviews

    2.0

    Dined 3 days ago

    1. Overall 2
    2. Food 4
    3. Service 1
    4. Ambience 4
    McCloone's service has decreased in value significantly in the past few years. We sat outside and they could not be more disorganized. We waited 30 minutes for our drinks and they came out wrong. Then, we ordered new ones and they brought us the same ones as the first time stating that they didn't have the ingredients to make the drink we ordered, but instead of telling us that they just kept bringing us the wrong drinks. We didn't have any plates or set ups when the appetizers came. Then, we had to buss our own table and bring our appetizer plates and everything to the bar as everything was piling up and no one was clearing the table. The bartender then let the dirty plates sit on the bar for the entire time we were there. None of the staff for the outdoor area had any idea what was going on. It was extremely disappointing. Food and ambiance is great but service is ABYSMAL.

    Is this helpful?

  10. Angelie VIP

    New York City29 reviews

    5.0

    Dined 3 days ago

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 4
    I love coming here for the good food, lake view and activities next door. The fish tacos, burgers and salads are great. The restaurant is next to a lake with a walkway, playground and paddle boats. It’s also within walking distance of g distant to the Turtle Back Zoo.

    Is this helpful?

FAQs

McLoone's Boathouse offers takeout which you can order by calling the restaurant at (862) 252-7108.

McLoone's Boathouse is rated 4.2 stars by 3811 OpenTable diners.

Yes, you can generally book this restaurant by choosing the date, time and party size on OpenTable.

  1. Home
  2. United States
  3. New Jersey
  4. Essex
  5. West Orange

Make a reservation

2 people
7:00 PM
Booked 37 times today
Experiences are available.
Google Map for McLoone's Boathouse

9 Cherry Lane, West Orange, NJ 07052

Dining areas

Additional information

  • Cross street
    Northfield Ave
  • Neighborhood
    West Orange
  • Hours of operation
    Brunch Sun 10:30 am–3:00 pm Lunch Mon–Sat 11:00 am–4:00 pm Dinner Mon–Sat 4:00 pm–10:00 pm Sun 3:00 pm–9:00 pm
  • Price
    $30 and under
  • Cuisines
    American, Seafood, Contemporary American
  • Dining style
    Casual Dining
  • Dress code
    Casual Dress
  • Parking details
    Self Parking<br />
  • Public transit
    NJ Transit 73
  • Payment options
    AMEX, Discover, Mastercard, Visa
  • Executive chef
    Trey Barnes
  • Entertainment
    Entertainment every Friday and Saturday night at 9pm.
  • Additional
    Banquet, Bar/Lounge, Beer, Cocktails, Delivery, Entertainment, Full Bar, Gluten-free Options, Happy Hour, Indoor Fireplace, Late Night, Non-Smoking, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Private Room, Takeout, Vegan, View, Weekend Brunch, Wheelchair Access, Wine
  • Phone number
  • Catering
    We cater to business meeting, showers, birthdays, and wedding celebrations. With three different size private spaces and a variety of different menus, we can accommodate a wide variety of functions!
  • Private party facilities
    Located within the South Mountain Recreation Complex, McLoone's Boathouse sits on the banks of the reservoir, showcasing spectacular views to our customers. Keeping with the tradition of Tim McLoone's other locations, the menu offers American cuisine that appeals to the entire family.
OpenTable
  • About Us
  • Blog
  • Careers
  • Press
More
Businesses
  • Restaurant reservation software
  • Industry insights
  • Hospitality resources
  • Marketing resources
  • Operation resources
  • How to open a restaurant
  • For restaurants
  • For restaurant groups
Join us on
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Use
  • Cookies and Interest-Based Ads
  • Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information
  • Cookie Preferences
Copyright © 2025 OpenTable, Inc. 1 Montgomery St Ste 500, San Francisco CA 94104 - All rights reserved.
OpenTable is part of Booking Holdings, the world leader in online travel and related services.
Booking Logo
Priceline Logo
KAYAK Logo
Agoda Logo
OpenTable Logo