Ray’s Boathouse Reopens After Remarkable Renovations
Ray’s Boathouse was part of a past “Passport to Pleasure” article, though at the time I suggested that “even better is to go upstairs to the more casual Ray’s Café to try to score a table on the outdoor deck.” Included in that report was a photo of the popular Ray’s dish: sablefish in sake kasu.
It’s now two years later, and Ray’s Boathouse has changed, going from classic to contemporary. Most striking is the new 30-foot mahogany bar, with its focus on rum cocktails and a lineup of bar bites. Located right in the middle of the dining room, the bar seats 28 people and sports big views of Shilshole Bay.
Wayne Johnson (formerly of Andaluca) and Joe Ritchie (formerly of The Herbfarm, Cave B Inn, and Poppy) are the new chefs. They’ve updated some of Ray’s classic dishes (such as the sablefish) while adding new dishes as well. In addition, there’s a five-course tasting menu ($75, or $110 with optional wine pairings) that will change weekly.
Ray’s Boathouse reopens tonight after being closed since mid-October. I’m told that the renovation cost more than a half-million dollars. And with Ray’s Café next in line for updating, I look forward to what the future brings to one of Seattle’s favorite seafood spots.
