“A good restaurant just makes me giddy. I can go all day with anticipation just knowing where I’m going to eat. Sometimes it’s well planned, sometimes it’s spontaneous. Either way works.”
Gayle King
It’s been a while since I have reviewed a good place to dine on the St. Lawrence River. So here’s an account of my absolute favorite place to eat on our side (NY) of the river….Bella’s.
A few years ago, my dear friend, Liz, brought me here for lunch and I immediately fell in love with the food, service and ambiance of this riverside gem.
Located in the heart of Clayton, NY, my husband and I try to hit this bistro up every summer. We missed out last year, due to covid restrictions. So this year, we high-tailed it down Highway 37 and Route 12 in search of a great lunch. And a great lunch we found!
We were immediately seated under a magnificent shade tree with an amazing view of the St. Lawrence River! Our server, Bridget, was very knowledgeable of all items on the menu. She was also very personable and gave us super fast service!
The lunch menu items were vast, with an additional daily specials board within easy view.
We essentially bypassed the menu and went straight for the lobster roll and lobster salad! To our pleasure, they were both prepared with gluten free options. Additionally, we shared a serving of Bella’s Boathouse Beet Salad.
We also shared a dessert of flourless chocolate cake with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream, but I was living in the moment and forgot to take a photo! Trust me when I tell you the entire experience was absolutely delightful!
Of course we brought Loki and he made several new friends!
I ate too much 
Ready for my nap
This was the start of the weekend of the Annual Antique Boat Show and Auction, held at the Antique Boat Museum.
If you love antique boats and want to learn more about the rich history of this region, I wholeheartedly recommend spending the day here. Throughout our meal we watched vintage boats and other intriguing sea vessels leisurely float by.
Our trip to Bella’s was a total success, and we capped our afternoon off with a visit to the amazing shoppes along the riverfront boutique district of Clayton.
Plan a trip to Clayton, NY and dine at Bella’s. You will be glad you did! Thank you for checking in. – Barb, the River Blogger (Btrb)
The River Blogger 
It is such a sweet spot! Truly enjoyed our visit there with you and Steve.
Sounds amazing! I wish I were there with you to enjoy the spectacular day.
You also write beautifully, your blog makes me want to drive there right this minute! Cheers! 🥰
Awe! Thank you so much! I wish you were here, too! 😘
A fun time was had by all.
😘