Reviews of the Backwaters

Absolutely delicious!! We had the all-you-can-eat chicken, Wednesday's special. I got all white meat ($2.00 more)which consisted of 2 huge breasts & two wings, fries & coleslaw. Bob had the regular offering which was a wing, a breast, a leg & a thigh, potato wedges & coleslaw. It arrived so hot we couldn't touch it for a few minutes. When we were able to eat it we were in awe. It was so good. The service for our meal was very good. A very friendly young man. Our overall experience was wonderful. Oh! Needless to say our one plate was more than enough...but we could have had more if we desired. - Amy B.

Nice clean fun atmosphere that sells good burgers. Also right on the river so have some nice scenery. Staff was nice and friendly and fast would recommend and we'll be back thank you - Matthew B.

Absolutely EXCELLENT! Celebrating Our "10th Anniversary" Up North Style. What an AMAZING PLACE. Owners so kind, upbeat, love the Music! Drinks Perfect. A must stop establishment. Clean, lovely setting on the WI River. Highly Recommended - Karin B.

I rarely give 5 stars....very few places live up to that honor.
That being said, Backwaters does live up to the 5 star rating.
Plenty of parking, out of town a bit so traffic is less.
Overlooking the Wisconsin River, a nice location.
Some knotty pine interior finishes but not to much to be to woody.
We had fish fries, which were excellent. The menu was very ample and varied.
One of the owners, Richard, was bartending and was very friendly and accommodating.
Many folks patronize the restaurants in town, this place is well worth the few mile drive out of town.
A lot bigger than it appears from the outside. Two large rooms with plenty of seating.
If you do not try Backwaters, you are missing out! - Bob B.

Great place to relax and enjoy some drinks and food. Highly recommend eating on the patio for a great view of the water. Service and staff was great! - April D.

Great place to stop for dinner in the Rhinelander area! Very clean, good quality food, and the people who work here are kind and helpful. We are here twice, once inside and once out, and both were enjoyable! You can arrive by boat as well. Very reasonably priced and drinks were good as well. - Madison M.

Excellent Friday fish fry. We sat outside which wasn't buggy at all. There seemed to be plenty of staff as our server checked on us the perfect amount. My fish had some amazing flavor! Highly recommend if you're visiting the area. - Tyler C.

THANK YOU for your delicious food and a staff that proves they love their jobs!
The broasted chicken is excellent, always a treat. And the awesome staff...we feel appreciated and whenever we're in town we make sure to stop at Backwaters to cure our hunger and enjoy a pleasant and cheerful atmosphere.
Kudos to ya'll!

Food and service are always top notch. Outstanding steak special on Saturday nights and love their Friday fish. Chicken and ribs are great too! Really can't go wrong with anything you order here!!

Friendly staff, excellent food and great beers on tap! Always know we'll have a fabulous time with our 3 boys there. Outside seating looking at WI River is just the afternoon we love and enjoy! Thanks again and we'll be back soon!

Absolutely wonderful location on the water. Richard and his family have provided a great spot to stop and eat or grab a drink. Tonight our waitress Lauren was efficient and friendly. The broasted chicken was mouth watering! - JoEllen L.

We went here for a Friday fish fry around 5:30 and really enjoyed our time on the back patio! The Staff were friendly and prompt and the food was delicious and quick. The inside by the bar and back patio were clean and accommodating of social distancing. We plan to go back! - Isaac P.

Excellent food and service. Great location. - Sherry M.

The staff was wonderful at Backwater and the food was delicious. They have an amazing area in the back overlooking the water. Can’t wait to go back again! - Julie H.

Roomy indoor and outdoor seating with beautiful views of the water and wildlife. Tons of parking, easy to find. Kid friendly for sure. Sunday special breasted chicken and their signature ribs are outstanding! Definitely coming back and bringing friends! Best old fashioned anywhere! - Karen P.

Excellent fish fry, atmosphere is super friendly and warm, fun place for friends and family to gather! - Tricia P.

Ordered 2 chicken meals. Was delicious. Tasty and juicy chicken. Awesome potato’s, roll, coleslaw and even a brownie. Will definitely go back again. Thanks. Plus we drove from Merrill. - Marge R.

Great, easy ordering online for fish fry, easy curbside pick up, great food and wonderful people. What more can you ask for. It was like getting a warm hug during this stay home era. Thank you! - Cindy M.

A must stop place when you're on the river or if you're just in the mood for some delicious chicken! Right now you can all ahead or order online for curbside or dockside pickup! - Heidi M.

"Had supper for the 1st time from here tonight. It was delicious. Way to go Kotlua family." - Louise W.