Waterfront Grill Jenks: Your Guide to Riverfront Dining
- sultan mbs
- Sep 27
- 9 min read
When you think of dining in Jenks, one name almost always comes to mind: Waterfront Grill. It’s more than just a restaurant; it's a true riverfront destination, blending a sophisticated menu with some of the best views of the Arkansas River you'll find anywhere. It's become a cornerstone of the local food scene, and for good reason.
Experience Jenks' Premier Riverfront Dining
Walking into Waterfront Grill, you immediately get a sense of what makes it special. It's that rare spot that manages to feel both elegant and completely welcoming. Whether you're there for a special occasion or a casual weeknight dinner, the stunning scenery of the river elevates the entire experience. It's no wonder it's become a pillar of the community, conveniently located right next to the popular Oklahoma Aquarium.
This guide will walk you through everything that makes Waterfront Grill a must-visit. We'll look at its unbeatable location, its commitment to quality food, and the unique atmosphere that keeps people coming back.
A Legacy of Quality on the River
The whole idea behind Waterfront Grill was to bring a big-city dining experience to the Tulsa area, but with a unique riverfront setting you just couldn't get anywhere else. They opened their doors back in the spring of 2011 and quickly became a local favorite.
In fact, the Oklahoma Restaurant Association named it the “Hottest New Concept in 2012”. That success didn't happen by accident. It's built on a foundation of using incredibly fresh ingredients, from top-tier steaks to fish that never, ever sees a freezer.
Waterfront Grill’s location wasn't just a lucky choice. It was a key piece of the puzzle in the larger plan for The Ten District, a project focused on creating a vibrant, walkable downtown. You can discover more about the revitalization of the ten downtown blocks in Jenks.
Stepping Inside: The Vibe at Waterfront Grill
From the second you walk through the doors, you get it. Waterfront Grill isn't just a place to eat; it’s a whole vibe. The space itself manages to feel both sophisticated and genuinely welcoming, playing off the natural scenery of the Arkansas River just outside.
Every little detail seems to have been hand-picked, from the sleek granite countertops to the custom light fixtures. Settle into the plush Italian leather seating and look up—that incredible floating ceiling was actually created by a movie set company, giving the whole room a subtle, cinematic feel.
You Haven't Lived Until You've Seen the Patio
As beautiful as the dining room is, the real showstopper is the patio. This is where the restaurant truly earns its name. Huge, oversized cedar timbers frame the space, and a translucent canopy overhead means you can soak in the views any time of year, rain or shine.
It's this seamless flow from the elegant interior to the stunning, open-air patio that makes the place so special. It’s the kind of spot where you want to linger over a drink, making it a go-to for everything from a casual weeknight dinner to a big celebration.
The sheer scale of this place tells you it was built to be a cornerstone of the Jenks Riverwalk. We're talking a massive 8,775 square foot restaurant that can welcome 350 guests at a time. It was a $3,246,000 project, and you can see that investment in every high-end finish. For a closer look at the unique build-out, check out this overview of the Waterfront Grill construction.
All that thoughtful design paid off. They didn't just build a restaurant; they created a landmark. It’s one of those spots that truly defines the area. If you’re lucky enough to live close by, you've got this gem right in your backyard. You can learn more about the lifestyle here in our guide to the Riverwalk apartments in Jenks OK.
A Culinary Tour Of The Menu
One of the first things you'll notice about the Waterfront Grill's menu is its deliberate focus. Instead of an encyclopedic list of dishes, they've clearly opted for a "quality over quantity" approach. It's all about executing a curated selection of plates with real precision.
That philosophy starts with the ingredients. The kitchen sources its premier steaks from the legendary Allen Brothers in Chicago and insists on fresh fish that is never frozen. You can truly taste that commitment, whether you’re digging into a perfectly grilled piece of fish or one of their intricate sushi rolls.
Signature Dishes You Cannot Miss
While everything on the menu is solid, a few dishes have earned a "must-try" reputation among locals. If you're visiting for the first time, these are the plates that best capture what Waterfront Grill is all about.
Newport Beach Salad: This isn't your average salad. It’s a fantastic mix of grilled chicken, sweet dates, and creamy avocado over mixed greens, all brought together with a bright champagne vinaigrette.
Allen Brothers Prime Steaks: A true showstopper. These steaks are cooked exactly how you ask, and their incredible quality makes them worth the trip alone. Perfect for a celebration or just when you want a really, really good meal.
Caterpillar Sushi Roll: A testament to their sushi bar's skill, this roll features eel and cucumber topped with perfectly sliced avocado and a sweet eel sauce. It's as beautiful as it is delicious.
To give you a better idea of what to expect, I've put together a quick guide to some of the menu's standout items.
Waterfront Grill Menu Highlights
Category | Signature Dish | Key Ingredients/Description |
|---|---|---|
Salads | Newport Beach Salad | Grilled chicken, dates, avocado, mixed greens, and champagne vinaigrette. |
Steaks | Allen Brothers Filet | An exceptionally tender 8 oz. filet, sourced from Chicago. |
Seafood | Cedar Plank Salmon | Salmon roasted on a cedar plank for a subtle, smoky flavor. |
Sushi | Caterpillar Roll | Eel and cucumber topped with thinly sliced avocado and a sweet eel sauce. |
Starters | Crispy Calamari | Lightly fried and served with marinara and a chili-garlic aioli. |
Brunch | Crab Cake Benedict | A decadent twist on a classic, featuring lump crab cakes. |
This table just scratches the surface, but it gives you a solid starting point for planning your meal.
From Starters To Brunch Favorites
Beyond the main courses, the rest of the menu holds up just as well. The appetizers are made for sharing—think crispy calamari or a rich spinach dip enjoyed out on the patio. The sushi bar is also a major highlight, turning out fresh, creative rolls and classic sashimi. For those who love exploring the local food scene, you can also discover the best seafood at Fish Shack in Coweta Oklahoma for a different take on regional flavor.
Sipping In Style At The Waterfront Bar
Of course, the food is the main event, but the bar at Waterfront Grill is truly a destination in its own right. It's clear that the drink menu gets just as much thoughtful attention as the kitchen creations, making for a well-rounded and sophisticated experience. Whether you're in the mood for a timeless cocktail or want to explore a new wine, they've got you covered.
This dedication to quality really shines through in their specialty cocktails. You absolutely have to try the award-winning Cucumber Martini; it’s a perfectly balanced, refreshing drink that has rightly earned its status as a local legend. The bar itself is always buzzing with a great energy, making it an ideal spot for happy hour or a pre-dinner drink while you take in those fantastic river views.
From Premium Wines to Craft Brews
What I particularly love is how they approach their wine list. Their wine-by-the-glass program is brilliant, letting you sample premium labels like Cakebread or Jordan Cabernet without having to spring for the whole bottle. It's a smart, approachable way to let everyone—from casual sippers to serious wine lovers—explore some really high-end stuff.
Beer fans aren't left out, either. There's a solid selection on tap, ranging from popular go-to drafts to a well-chosen list of bottled favorites. Pro tip: if you really want to get the most out of each pour, using the appropriate beer glass types can elevate the experience more than you'd think.
The lively bar scene is a perfect fit for the energetic vibe of the whole area. The bar at Waterfront Grill is just one of many great places that make up the local nightlife, making it an essential stop. To see what else is around, check out this ultimate guide to downtown Jenks.
How to Plan Your Visit
To make sure your visit to Waterfront Grill is as smooth as the view from its patio, a little bit of planning is a great idea. This place is popular for a reason, so I always recommend making a reservation, especially if you're eyeing a weekend dinner slot.
Those coveted patio seats overlooking the Arkansas River get snapped up quickly. If you have your heart set on one, booking ahead is definitely the way to go.
Looking for a more low-key experience? Try a weekday dinner. The atmosphere is usually a bit calmer, which is perfect for a more intimate meal. On the flip side, their weekend brunch is buzzing with energy—a fantastic way to kick off a Saturday or Sunday.
Dress Code and Parking
The vibe here is what I'd call smart casual. You'll fit right in with nice jeans or slacks paired with a stylish top or button-down shirt. It’s not a black-tie affair by any means, but you’ll probably want to skip the gym shorts and athletic wear for evening reservations.
As for parking, you're in luck. There's plenty of it in the surrounding Riverwalk area, so getting there is a breeze.
Pro Tip: Many people make a day of it when they visit. You can easily pair your meal with a trip to the aquarium—here's how to explore the wonders of Tulsa Aquarium Oklahoma, which is practically next door.
Special Occasions and Group Dining
Waterfront Grill is a go-to spot for celebrations like birthdays, anniversaries, and other big moments. The combination of an elegant dining room and that scenic backdrop really makes any event feel special.
If you're organizing a get-together, using a solid birthday party planning checklist can help you keep all the details straight.
For larger groups, I strongly suggest calling the restaurant directly. A quick chat with their staff will ensure they can accommodate your party perfectly and that your celebration goes off without a hitch.
Got Questions? We've Got Answers
Thinking about a visit to Waterfront Grill Jenks? It’s smart to get a few details ironed out first. To make your planning easy, we've gathered the answers to the questions we hear most often.
Getting these things squared away beforehand means you can walk in, relax, and focus on what really matters: the incredible food, the view, and the people you're with.
Is Waterfront Grill a Good Spot for Kids?
Absolutely. While the vibe is definitely polished, Waterfront Grill is welcoming to families, especially for brunch or an earlier dinner. You'll find plenty on the menu to please younger palates.
If you're bringing the whole crew, we'd suggest booking for a weekday or joining the fun during weekend brunch. The bright, bustling daytime atmosphere is a perfect backdrop for a family meal.
Wondering what to wear? The dress code at Waterfront Grill is what you'd call smart casual. No need for a suit and tie, but the upscale setting means you'll feel right at home in a nice pair of jeans, a button-down shirt, a blouse, or slacks. You might want to leave the athletic wear and flip-flops at home, especially if you have a dinner reservation.
What About Dietary Needs or Private Parties?
The team at Waterfront Grill is great at accommodating different dietary needs. They have a good handle on common requests and feature several gluten-free and vegetarian options right on the menu.
Dietary Needs: The best way to handle this is to just let your server know about any allergies or dietary restrictions when you order. They’ll be happy to walk you through your best options. If you're dealing with a serious allergy, a quick call ahead of time is always a good move.
Private Events: With its gorgeous setting, the restaurant is a fantastic choice for private parties, company dinners, or big celebrations. They have flexible spaces that can be set up for groups of all sizes. To get the ball rolling, just get in touch with the management team directly to talk about menus, dates, and what you have in mind. For larger events, especially during busy seasons, you'll want to book well in advance.
A little planning goes a long way, ensuring the team can give you a fantastic experience, whether it’s dinner for two or a party for fifty at one of Jenks' best spots.
Continue your exploration of Jenks by discovering everything The Ten District has to offer, from unique shops to community events. Visit us at https://www.thetendistrict.com.
