Gloucester Docks is a vibrant food lover’s destination, boasting an impressive array of cafés and restaurants. From the diverse independent eateries at the Food Dock to popular chains in Gloucester Quays like Zizzi and Bill’s, there’s no shortage of options. Yet, it was a modest, floating café—The Boat Café—that captured my attention on a chilly February Monday.
Tucked away between the Quays and the Food Dock, The Boat Café is easy to overlook. I almost missed it myself, passing by a couple of times before ultimately deciding to step aboard. I’m glad I did.
The café’s unique appeal lies in its blend of traditional lunch options alongside a niche Nepalese menu. A tempting lunchtime deal offers a choice of sandwich or homemade soup with bread, plus a hot or cold drink for just £7.90. But what caught my eye were the Nepalese dishes: steamed or fried Momo dumplings starting at £6.50, as well as vegetable, chicken, or prawn Chow mein at a similar price point.
I’m always eager to try something a bit different for lunch, so I chose a portion of steamed chicken Momo, a honey flapjack from the cake counter, and a glass of fresh orange juice. My total came to £12.70—a fair price for a main, drink, and sweet treat considering the quality and setting.
Inside, the café is cozy and inviting. Fairy lights twinkle around the windows, and small succulent plants adorn each table, adding a homely touch. A quaint corner shop features handcrafted wooden chopping boards and tealight holders by a local artist, enhancing the charming atmosphere.
Seated on the side facing Gloucester Quays, I enjoyed peaceful views of Orchard Square and the National Waterways Museum, despite nearby construction. The café’s location on the water provides a soothing ambiance, although the ongoing dredging caused the boat to sway gently.
The occasional rocking, exacerbated by a motorboat moored alongside, is a natural part of dining on water. If you’re sensitive to motion, I’d recommend avoiding visits during windy days or when nearby work is underway, as the movement could be unsettling.
The food itself was gratifying. The eight steamed chicken Momo dumplings arrived simply presented but packed with flavor. The chicken filling was generous, juicy, and lightly spiced—perfect for a cold day—while being surprisingly filling. The honey flapjack, though it appeared a bit dry, crumbled perfectly and offered just the right balance of sweetness to conclude the meal.
It was a shame to be almost the only customer while others walked past without noticing this hidden gem. Hopefully, on sunnier days, The Boat Café will attract more visitors keen to take a break from shopping and enjoy a delightful meal afloat.