A Guide to Waterfront Grill Jenks

When people in Jenks talk about going out for a nice meal, one name always comes up: Waterfront Grill. It’s one of those cornerstone spots in town, perched right on the banks of the Arkansas River next to the Oklahoma Aquarium. It’s known for that perfect mix of upscale dining without the stuffiness, making it a go-to for locals and a must-visit for anyone passing through.

A Jenks Original: Riverside Dining at Its Best

If you're looking for the complete Waterfront Grill experience, you've come to the right place. This isn't just a restaurant; it's a landmark in the Jenks dining scene. The main draw? It's right there in the name—the stunning, panoramic views of the Arkansas River that you can enjoy from just about every seat in the house.

But a great view only gets you so far. Waterfront Grill has built its reputation on fantastic food, from fresh seafood and top-tier steaks to some of the best sushi around. It’s the kind of place you can rely on, whether you're planning a big celebration dinner or just feel like a nice lunch out. For anyone getting to know the area, stopping here is a great way to see what makes the local community so special. You can learn more about what Jenks has to offer in our guide to life in this vibrant community.

Waterfront Grill has nailed that tricky balance between feeling like a special occasion spot and a comfortable, welcoming neighborhood joint. It’s a unique vibe that just works.

So, what really makes this place tick? Let's break down the key ingredients that have kept people coming back year after year.

• The Vibe: It’s a beautiful, modern space, but the real star is the relaxed, riverside atmosphere. You feel like you're getting away from it all, even if you're just a few minutes from home.

• The Food: They're serious about quality. We're talking fresh-off-the-boat seafood, perfectly cooked prime steaks, and creative sushi rolls. The menu has something for everyone.

• The Location: You can't beat it. Being right next to the Oklahoma Aquarium makes it the perfect spot to round out a family day trip or a date night.

Waterfront Grill Jenks At a Glance

Here’s a quick rundown of what makes Waterfront Grill a standout choice for dining in Jenks.

Feature	Description
Cuisine	American with a focus on fresh seafood, prime steaks, and sushi.
Ambiance	Upscale casual with stunning riverside views.
Location	9999 S Riverside Pkwy, Tulsa, OK 74137, next to the Oklahoma Aquarium.
Best For	Date nights, special occasions, family dinners, and business lunches.
Outdoor Seating	Yes, a spacious patio overlooking the Arkansas River.
Reservations	Highly recommended, especially for weekends and holidays.

It's clear that the combination of great food, a beautiful setting, and a prime location is a winning formula.

The Story Behind a Jenks Landmark

Every great local spot has a story, and Waterfront Grill's is one rooted in family and a pretty big vision. The journey starts with the Blacketer family, a name you might already know around town—they're the same folks who brought us the wildly popular Los Cabos Mexican Grill and Cantina.

With Los Cabos booming, they set their sights on something new. They pictured a restaurant that felt different, something with a sophisticated, almost big-city vibe, but right here on the banks of the Arkansas River. In the spring of 2011, that idea became a reality. Waterfront Grill opened its doors and quickly cemented itself as a cornerstone of the Jenks dining scene. You can learn more about the family's impressive restaurant ventures on MIOCoalition.com.

A Timeline of Growth

But the story didn't stop in 2011. The restaurant has been evolving ever since, constantly tweaking and improving the experience for everyone who walks through the door.

This visual timeline really shows their commitment to getting better, whether through major renovations or by simply perfecting that one-of-a-kind riverside seating.

Waterfront Grill’s story is a perfect example of how to elevate a community. It wasn’t just about opening another restaurant; it was about creating a destination that could stand proudly alongside those in much larger cities.

This constant push forward has made it more than just a restaurant; it's a true Jenks landmark. Its prime spot on the river offers those incredible views and also puts you close to other local highlights. For example, after dinner, you're just a short walk from other great places to explore. For ideas, check out our complete guide to Veterans Park in Jenks, Oklahoma. It's this dedication to quality and atmosphere that turns a simple meal into a memorable part of the Jenks experience.

Inside the Ambiance and Architecture

When you walk into the Waterfront Grill, you’re not just sitting down for a meal—you’re stepping into an experience. The place just has a vibe. It somehow manages to be both upscale and totally relaxed, making it just as right for a big celebration dinner as it is for a casual lunch on a whim.

The design itself is intentionally eclectic, mixing sophisticated touches with a genuine warmth that makes you feel welcome. It’s a big space, spanning an impressive 8,775 square feet with room for up to 350 people, but it never feels cavernous. You’ll find custom finishes everywhere you look, from the sleek granite surfaces and rich Italian leather seats to the handcrafted wood paneling. It's clear a lot of thought went into it, and you can see more of the construction details over on Flintco.com.

Architectural Highlights

One of the first things people notice is the dramatic "floating ceiling." It’s a real showstopper. And here's a cool piece of trivia: it wasn't built by your typical construction crew. A movie set company actually created it, which explains the touch of Hollywood flair you feel in the main dining room. It just opens up the whole space and gives it a sense of drama.

You get the sense that Waterfront Grill is all about creating memorable moments. Every detail feels curated, from the ceiling right down to the chairs, making the whole experience feel special.

Then there’s the patio. It’s absolutely massive and framed with oversized cedar timbers under a translucent canopy, giving you these incredible, wide-open views of the Arkansas River. It’s the perfect spot for dining outside, a real escape that feels miles away from everything. This kind of thoughtful design is a big part of the city's evolution, which is a hot topic right now as one agency is revolutionizing downtown Jenks. Between the stunning interior and the riverside patio, the ambiance at Waterfront Grill is something you won't forget.

A Culinary Tour of the Menu

Let's be honest, the heart and soul of any great restaurant is what’s on the plate. At Waterfront Grill Jenks, the menu is a perfect example of what happens when you’re obsessed with quality and creativity. It's not just a list of dishes; it’s a full experience, carefully put together by Chef Jimmy Blacketer to hit every note, from refined classics to inventive new flavors.

The whole philosophy here is simple but powerful: start with the absolute best ingredients you can get your hands on.

You can taste that commitment right away. All the seafood is flown in fresh—never frozen—so every bite tastes like it just came from the ocean. That same dedication applies to their steaks. They’re sourced from the legendary Allen Brothers in Chicago, a name that meat lovers know means some of the finest prime cuts in the country. When you start with a foundation like that, everything else just sings.

Signature Selections and Standouts

A quick look at the menu and you’ll find a delicious variety of choices. While the steaks and fresh fish are the cornerstones, the sushi bar has become a massive draw on its own, turning out rolls that are both traditional and wonderfully imaginative.

To give you an idea of where to start, here are a few fan favorites that people can’t stop talking about:

• Newport Beach Salad: A bright, refreshing mix that’s like a taste of the coast. It’s perfect for a lighter lunch or as a starter to kick things off.

• Caterpillar Sushi Roll: This one is a work of art, famous for its creamy avocado topping and a perfect blend of fillings inside.

• Prime Steaks: Expertly seasoned and cooked exactly how you like it, these Allen Brothers steaks are a true highlight for any carnivore.

The menu at Waterfront Grill is like a well-conducted orchestra. Each section—from the sushi bar to the grill—plays its part beautifully, coming together to create a harmonious and satisfying dining experience.

This thoughtful approach means the menu feels both approachable and exciting. You can find a perfectly grilled classic burger right next to delicate, fresh sashimi, which makes it an ideal spot when you’re dining with a group that has different cravings. And of course, the dessert menu offers the perfect sweet finish to your meal.

If you're still on the hunt for other fantastic local flavors, you can explore the Everything Madeleine menu for more delightful treats in the area. At the end of the day, the incredible menu is a huge part of what makes Waterfront Grill a must-visit destination in Jenks.

Why Diners Say This is a Top Jenks Restaurant

A great menu and a beautiful building will get you in the door, but it's the constant buzz from happy customers that really cements a restaurant's reputation. From the moment it opened, Waterfront Grill Jenks has earned both critical praise and a devoted following, quickly becoming one of the go-to spots in the Tulsa area.

This wasn't just some slow build-up, either. The restaurant made such a splash that within its first year, the Oklahoma Restaurant Association named it the “Hottest New Concept in 2012.” That kind of award sends a clear signal: this place was doing something different, something special.

Consistent Customer Acclaim

Years later, that initial excitement is still going strong, backed by thousands of glowing reviews from diners. The restaurant is consistently ranked among the city's best, currently holding the #3 spot out of 29 restaurants in Jenks on Tripadvisor. That high praise, built on over 350 reviews, shows a reputation that's not just strong but sustained over time.

This blend of prestigious awards and non-stop positive feedback from real customers tells a powerful story. It shows that Waterfront Grill delivers an experience that both industry experts and everyday diners genuinely love.

For any restaurant, being seen and talked about is everything. Understanding the critical local SEO ranking factors can make a huge difference in getting noticed online. Of course, being right next door to a major attraction doesn't hurt, and you can learn more about what's nearby when you [explore the Tulsa Aquarium in Oklahoma](https://www.thetendistrict.com/jenks/explore-the-tulsa-aquarium-in-oklahoma-a-must-visit-destination) in our dedicated guide.

Planning Your Perfect Visit

A little planning can really make your trip to Waterfront Grill something special. It's one of the most popular spots on the river, and it gets packed, especially on the weekends. I'd definitely recommend making a reservation to make sure you get a table without a long wait.

The vibe here hits that perfect sweet spot between elegant and comfortable, so the dress code is what you’d call upscale casual. You don't need a suit and tie, but it’s a great excuse to dress up just a bit. Think business casual or something you'd wear for a nice night out, and you'll fit right in.

Tips For Your Visit

While there's parking available, it's always a good idea to show up a few minutes early, particularly during those primetime dinner hours. If you're looking for a really memorable experience, you have to try their weekend brunch. They often have live jazz, which creates an incredible, relaxed atmosphere for a meal right by the water.

Pro Tip: Make a full day of it by pairing your meal with a visit to the Oklahoma Aquarium next door. Spending the afternoon exploring the aquarium and then walking over to Waterfront Grill for dinner is the perfect combo for a family adventure or a really unique date.

Good to Know Before You Go

If you're planning a trip to Waterfront Grill, you probably have a few questions. To make sure your visit is as smooth and enjoyable as possible, here are the answers to a few things people often ask.

Do I Need a Reservation?

It's a really good idea, especially if you're planning on dinner for Friday, Saturday, or their popular Sunday brunch. The place gets busy, and booking ahead means you won't be stuck waiting for a table. You can reserve a spot right on their website or just give them a call.

What's the Dress Code?

Think upscale casual. You don't need a suit and tie, but you might feel a little out of place in athletic wear or a tank top. Most people go for business casual or something a little sharp, which fits right in with the restaurant's classy but comfortable vibe.

Celebrating something special? With its elegant look, river views, and incredible menu, Waterfront Grill is a fantastic spot for anniversaries, birthdays, or any big occasion. Just give the staff a heads-up when you book.

Is There Outdoor Seating?

Yes, and it's fantastic. Waterfront Grill has a beautiful, spacious patio with some of the best views of the Arkansas River you can get. The outdoor seating is covered and a huge draw when the weather is nice. If you've got your heart set on the patio, definitely mention it when you make your reservation. Bonus: the patio is dog-friendly, so your four-legged friend can come along, too.

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