The Dam Landing

Reviews

• Sarah S.

  star star star star star_border 29 May 2026

  Great setting, tasty food with unique options (PB tenderloin), and friendly servers! A slight bit run down but it's a very comfortable cozy laid back spot. Would def go back!

• Jane B.

  star star star star star_border 28 May 2026

  We found the burgers and comfort Mac and Cheese delicious on a rainy Saturday afternoon. The Dam Landing offers lots of domestic and import beers has a full bar as well as a family section. Tip - since the restaurant is sitting on Lake Manitou and has lots of windows we have found it freezing in the winter and incredibly hot in the summer don't let that stop you just dress appropriately. Food is delicious and they do offer outdoor seating when the weather allows.

• Richard P.

  star star star star star 22 May 2026

  It would be practically impossible to not fall in love with The Dam Landing, an indoor/outdoor bar and grill located on Lake Manitou in Rochester, Indiana.
  
  In full disclosure, I was in town for a fundraising event and The Dam Landing had donated my meal for the evening and, in fact, ended up offering up a surprise donation to the cause. However, there's no question that neither fact influences my review.
  
  I loved this place.
  
  The Dam Landing has the look and feel of an old beach house, adjacent boat docks offering the option for local boating residents to float their way into The Dam Landing for one of many of The Dam Landing's special events.
  
  The setting itself is rustic, yet stunningly beautiful. There's limited options for accessible parking, yet between their own private spots and an adjacent lot it was never an issue. They have a ramp into their restaurant, most likely not quite ADA compliant yet I had no difficulty with it at all.
  
  We arrived on trivia night - the place was bustling and loud and chaotic, yet it was also surprisingly organized and immensely friendly.
  
  They offer 16 beers on tap - alternating between micro-brews and domestic favorites, while the menu also tends to be changed up to keep things fresh. The owner, Brett, was clearly familiar to those present and owns other businesses within the Rochester area.
  
  I arrived with my support crew for the day being that I was on a trip up the Nickel Plate Trail by wheelchair. We'd given them an idea of when we'd likely arrive and we were seated quite quickly upon our arrival. When a wooden booth opened up closer to the water, there was no hesitation in allowing us to move to enjoy the scenery.
  
  The menu consists of shareables, salads, epic burgers, a variety of sandwiches, street tacos, pizzas (after 4pm), and a handful of entrees. I decided to try out their tenderloin sandwich, which is hand-breaded and was incredibly good. The sandwiches come with fries or tots, I chose tots, and I was incredibly happy with the entire meal.
  
  Of course, I picked my usual unsweetened iced tea and was pleased to get my always desired refill.
  
  Among the meals I enjoyed while on my Tenderness Tour last week, my visit to The Dam Landing was a true highlight. With terrific food, an amazing setting, a terrific crew, and fair pricing this is easily a Rochester, Indiana establishment worth checking out if you're in the area. If you get a chance, sit outside and check out the lovely Lake Manitou.

• Seth D.

  star star star star star_border 18 May 2026

  Came here for a small family dinner and discovered a hidden gem. The atmosphere has room for improvement but in no way takes away from the experience. The food was amazing, especially the Bacon Burger with onion rings. The tacos and jerk chicken sandwich are excellent as well. The Bloody Mary, not so much. Its was a bit on the watery side and devoid of any trace of spice. However the food combined with the great service still earns 4 stars!

• Teah R.

  star star star star star_border 14 May 2026

  Came to this place because a friend recommended it. The usual dinner spot in our town is closed for vacation so we had to drive to the next town.
  
  They have very limited parking in front of the building and a small lot available across the street. First impression of the building was a dive bar feel. Once you get I side you'll see a bar area and a dining area.
  
  We got a table right but the many windows that overlook the lake.
  
  The service was great. Very friendly staff!
  
  The food was alright. Pretty average. I ordered a burger that came with bacon, bacon aoli, bacon jam, and cheddar cheese. The burger was pretty thin compared to other restaurant burgers I've had. Still tasty though.
  
  Overall, not bad and it was a nice change from the usual.