Spencer’s at the Waterfront: Complete Guide to Dining and Reservations

Spencer’s at the Waterfront stands as one of Burlington’s most celebrated dining establishments, offering guests an elevated steakhouse and seafood experience along the shores of Lake Ontario. This chef-inspired restaurant has earned its place among the city’s top culinary destinations, combining contemporary-classic cuisine with panoramic waterfront views.

Whether you’re planning a special celebration, a romantic dinner, or simply exploring what Burlington’s dining scene has to offer, understanding the restaurant’s offerings, hours, and reservation process can help you make the most of your visit. The establishment has built a reputation for quality seafood, prime cuts, and seasonal ingredients that reflect both local flavors and culinary innovation.

What You Need to Know Before Visiting Spencer’s at the Waterfront

Key Insights on Spencer’s at the Waterfront

• The restaurant ranks #22 among 458-566 restaurants on TripAdvisor, placing it among Burlington’s top dining options
• Signature offerings include Spencer’s Platter (CA$80) and the more elaborate Spencer’s Tower (CA$165), designed for sharing
• Sunday Prime Rib specials at $70 per person offer a three-course experience from 5-8 PM
• On-site parking is available for guests, addressing a common concern for waterfront dining
• Limited evening service hours mean calling ahead to confirm current operating times is strongly advised
• The restaurant combines elegant atmosphere with waterfront views, earning praise for both ambiance and staff friendliness

Quick Facts: Spencer’s at the Waterfront

Menu Highlights and Pricing

The menu at Spencer’s at the Waterfront reflects a commitment to quality ingredients and skilled preparation. Focusing on fresh seafood, prime cuts, and seasonal components, the offerings balance contemporary innovation with classic preparation methods that appeal to a range of palates.

Appetizers and Starters

Begin your meal with thoughtfully crafted appetizers designed to showcase the kitchen’s attention to detail. The Snow Crab Cakes, priced at CA$27, arrive with sake vinaigrette, tempura oyster mushroom, and ponzu aioli—a combination that highlights both texture and umami depth. Those preferring beef will find the Beef Tartare at CA$26 offers crispy herbs, manchego, and cardini mayo alongside tender cuts. For guests seeking something with a bit more heat, the Pepperoni Flatbread (CA$26) features jalapeño, chili oil, and parmesan.

Shareable Plates and Platters

The restaurant excels in dishes meant for sharing, making them ideal for couples or small groups celebrating special occasions. Spencer’s Platter at CA$80 presents an impressive selection including oysters, shrimp, salmon tataki, snow crab, and house-made sauces—a curated tasting that represents the breadth of the kitchen’s capabilities. For those wanting to indulge further, Spencer’s Tower at CA$165 elevates the experience by adding poached lobster and scallop ceviche to the already substantial offering.

Steak Sauces and Accompaniments

Enhance your steak with signature sauces crafted to complement prime cuts. The Bordelaise or Au Poivre sauce adds CA$6 to your order, while the Café de Paris Butter contributes an additional CA$4. These finishing touches allow guests to customize their dining experience according to personal preference.

Sunday Specials

The Sunday Prime Rib experience represents excellent value at $70 per person, including a starter, the prime rib itself, and dessert. Served between 5:00 PM and 8:00 PM, this three-course offering provides a complete dining experience without the complexity of ordering individual items.

Hours of Operation and Current Schedule

Spencer’s at the Waterfront operates with limited evening service, a common characteristic for upscale establishments that prioritize quality over volume. Current available information indicates the restaurant closes Mondays through Wednesdays, with service beginning at 3:30 PM on other days.

Daily Hours Summary

• Sunday: 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
• Monday – Wednesday: Closed
• Thursday – Saturday: Opens 3:30 PM (closing time varies)

Visitor Reviews and Overall Experience

With 1,137 reviews and a 3.8/5 rating on TripAdvisor, Spencer’s at the Waterfront has established itself as a reliable destination for quality waterfront dining. The rating places the establishment in the “Good” category, reflecting a consistent experience that satisfies most visitors.

What Guests Appreciate

The combination of excellent views, friendly staff, and a diverse seafood and steak menu emerges as a consistent theme across visitor feedback. Desserts receive particular mention, suggesting the kitchen’s expertise extends beyond savory preparations into sweet finishes. The elegant atmosphere and waterfront setting contribute significantly to the overall dining experience, making the restaurant suitable for both romantic dinners and celebratory occasions.

“The views of Lake Ontario combined with thoughtful service make Spencer’s a standout choice for special occasions. The seafood platter was exceptional.”

— TripAdvisor Reviewer

Location and Accessibility

Situated on Burlington’s waterfront with panoramic Lake Ontario views, the restaurant benefits from a setting that enhances any dining experience. On-site parking addresses a practical consideration for guests traveling by car, while the location within Burlington places it within reach of visitors from the Greater Toronto Area—including those who might compare waterfront dining options like the DoubleTree by Hilton Toronto Downtown when planning regional dining experiences.

Making Reservations

Given the restaurant’s popularity and limited seating during evening service, advance reservations are strongly recommended. The establishment offers two primary booking methods to accommodate different guest preferences.

• Online via OpenTable: Reserve your table online through the restaurant’s OpenTable listing
• By phone: Call +1 905-633-7494 to speak directly with staff about availability and special requests
• TripAdvisor: The TripAdvisor FAQ provides additional booking guidance and information

What’s Confirmed vs. What Remains Unclear

Why Choose Spencer’s at the Waterfront

For those exploring waterfront dining in the Burlington area, Spencer’s represents a sophisticated option that balances culinary quality with scenic setting. The restaurant appeals particularly to guests seeking an elevated experience—celebrating anniversaries, hosting business dinners, or simply enjoying a memorable meal with quality time.

The menu’s focus on fresh seafood and quality cuts positions it distinctly from casual dining establishments, while the pricing reflects the premium ingredients and attentive service provided. Visitors comparing options might also consider currency exchange considerations if traveling from the United States, as the restaurant operates in Canadian dollars.

Expert Reviews and Source Information

Multiple platforms provide insights into the Spencer’s at the Waterfront experience. TripAdvisor remains the primary review aggregator, with over 1,137 visitor assessments contributing to the current 3.8/5 rating. The TripAdvisor listing offers detailed visitor photos and extended reviews that provide additional context beyond simple star ratings.

“Excellent waterfront views paired with professional service. The diverse menu offers something for everyone, though seafood preparations seem particularly strong.”

— TripAdvisor Reviewer

OpenTable serves as the primary reservation platform, while the restaurant’s official presence through spencers.ca provides supplementary information including craft cut promotions and seasonal special announcements.

Summary: Planning Your Visit

Spencer’s at the Waterfront offers Burlington visitors and residents an elevated dining experience combining quality steakhouse and seafood offerings with scenic Lake Ontario views. The restaurant’s #22 ranking among over 450 area establishments reflects consistent execution across food, service, and atmosphere. With appetizers ranging from CA$26-27 and shareable platters up to CA$165, the menu accommodates various budgets and appetites.

Limited evening hours and closed Mondays through Wednesdays mean planning ahead is essential. Reservations through OpenTable or by calling +1 905-633-7494 help ensure availability, while confirming current hours remains advisable given potential seasonal variations. For special occasions, the Sunday Prime Rib three-course special at $70 per person provides an attractive option combining convenience with quality.

Frequently Asked Questions