Covington Inn

Recommends

Contributor

Joined 10 years ago

In fair weather, there is no better place to celebrate life than here.. Editor's note: The owners decided against reopening the boat in summer 2001.

The Scene
The floating restaurant moored off Harriet Island yields an unparalleled view of the Mississippi and the St. Paul skyline. But it's almost as enchanting when it rains, when you can watch the fog settle over the river valley and hear the mournful toots of approaching barges.

The Food
The creative but homey food is reliably good and sometimes great and, considering the quality, the prices are decent. The limited menu--five entrees--changes often. Pastry queen Debora Gilson produces amazing desserts, and chef Claudia Rhodes has an appreciation for Midwestern fare--rib-eye steak sandwich, barbecued pork ribs--with herbs that add surprise. A peanut-chili chutney, for example, adds zest to sautéed walleye, and a bouquet of fresh thyme enlivens wild mushroom crepes. Brunch might include hazelnut brioche French toast, smoked trout, frittatas and a fresh fruit plate.