Boardwalk Bar and Grill

You're walking down Glebe Road towards the water, and suddenly there's Boardwalk, anchoring Gilly's Landing with the kind of swagger that comes from knowing exactly what it does well. Inside, it's all dark wood and lake views, the sort of place that feels equally comfortable whether you've rolled in from a lakeside walk or dressed up for an actual occasion. The menu doesn't mess about—grilled meats and fish done properly, cocktails that taste like they're made by someone who cares, and a wine list that goes beyond the obvious. Service strikes that rare balance between attentive and unbothered, which is exactly what Bowness needs.