What should I order at Steamboat Bill's on the Lake?
Steamboat Bill's on the Lake
Pistolettes
Recommended several times as "amazing" and something reviewers were hooked on after trying. They were singled out as a standout Cajun item worth returning for.
Shrimp Etouffee
Mentioned positively by multiple reviewers, with comments that it was fantastic, tasted great, and was a dish people would order again. It stands out for its rich flavor.
Gumbo
Frequently mentioned in several forms, including chicken and sausage gumbo, shrimp and crab gumbo, and crawfish and shrimp gumbo. Reviewers praised its flavorful, rich roux and overall taste, though one review noted a weaker batch.
Fried Fish Tacos
Called perfect in one review, with the food overall described as fresh and cooked well. This dish was specifically highlighted as an excellent menu choice.
Boiled Shrimp
Praised for being seasoned perfectly and recommended as one of the boiled options. Reviewers liked the flavor and even took the seasoning home.
Fried Softshell Crab
Described as delicious and especially enjoyable because it was easy to eat and full of crab flavor. It was repeatedly singled out as a favorite seafood item.
Crawfish Pistolette
Called absolutely amazing and one reviewer said they were hooked after trying it. This dish was a clear standout among the Cajun specialties.
Hours
| Monday | 10:30 AM to 9 PM |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 10:30 AM to 9 PM |
| Wednesday | 10:30 AM to 9 PM |
| Thursday | 10:30 AM to 9 PM |
| Friday | 10:30 AM to 10 PM |
| Saturday | 10:30 AM to 10 PM |
| Sunday | 10:30 AM to 9 PM |
About Steamboat Bill's on the Lake
Big, bustling fish house providing Cajun seafood in casual quarters with a nautical theme.
Amenities & services
Service options
- No-contact delivery
- Delivery
- Onsite services
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Fast service
- Great beer selection
- Great dessert
- Great tea selection
- Serves local specialty
Popular for
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
- Wheelchair accessible seating
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Coffee
- Comfort food
- Hard liquor
- Private dining room
- Quick bite
- Small plates
- Wine
Dining options
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Catering
- Counter service
- Dessert
- Seating
Amenities
- Restroom
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
- Trendy
Crowd
- College students
- Family-friendly
- Groups
- LGBTQ+ friendly
- Tourists
Planning
- Accepts reservations
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
- Credit cards
Children
- Good for kids
- High chairs
- Kids' menu
Parking
- Free parking lot
- Free street parking
- Paid parking lot
- Usually plenty of parking
Frequently asked questions
What is Steamboat Bill's on the Lake known for?
It is best known for Cajun seafood, especially crawfish, shrimp etouffee, boudin balls, and boiled shrimp. Reviewers repeatedly mention the fast service, fresh food, and big portions, with several saying it is a strong stop when passing through Lake Charles.
What dishes are most recommended at Steamboat Bill's on the Lake?
Reviewers most often recommend the shrimp etouffee, crawfish, boudin balls, boiled shrimp, chicken gumbo, popcorn shrimp po boy, soft crab po boy, and pistolettes. The captain's platter is also called out as a large portion that can feed two people, and the watermelon margarita gets positive mentions too.
What is the atmosphere like at Steamboat Bill's on the Lake?
The dining room is described as busy, loud, energetic, and fun, with a casual and cozy fish-house feel. It suits groups and families, but it is also popular for solo dining because service is quick and the restaurant handles rushes efficiently.
Is Steamboat Bill's on the Lake good value?
Yes, the $10 to $20 price range is generally seen as good value for the portion sizes and speed of service. Reviewers mention shareable plates like the captain's platter and small platters that can feed two people, which makes the meal feel substantial for the price.
How busy does Steamboat Bill's on the Lake get, and is the wait worth it?
It can get very busy, and reviewers mention long lines and a full dining room, but they also say the line moves fast. Many note that the restaurant runs like a well-oiled machine, so the wait is usually manageable even during peak lunch and dinner hours.
Is parking available at Steamboat Bill's on the Lake?
Yes. Free parking lot, Free street parking, Paid parking lot, Usually plenty of parking is available.
Is Steamboat Bill's on the Lake kid-friendly?
Yes, Steamboat Bill's on the Lake is good for kids.
Restaurants like Steamboat Bill's on the Lake in Lake Charles
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