Hey guys! Ever found yourself strolling along the beautiful Waterway and suddenly, your stomach starts rumbling? Well, you're in luck! "The Drive" by the Waterway is an awesome spot to grab a bite, offering a fantastic menu that caters to pretty much every craving you might have. So, let's dive into what makes The Drive's menu so special and why it’s a must-visit when you're in the area.

A Deep Dive into The Drive’s Menu

Let’s get straight to the good stuff: the menu! The Drive by the Waterway boasts a diverse selection that ranges from classic comfort food to innovative dishes that’ll surprise your taste buds. Whether you're in the mood for a hearty meal or a light snack, there's something here for everyone.

First up, the appetizers. Think crispy calamari, loaded nachos, and spinach artichoke dip – perfect for sharing (or not, we won't judge!). These starters are designed to kick off your meal with a burst of flavor and get you excited for what’s to come. The calamari is lightly battered and perfectly fried, offering a satisfying crunch with every bite. The nachos are piled high with all your favorite toppings, from melted cheese to savory meats and fresh veggies. And the spinach artichoke dip? Creamy, cheesy, and utterly irresistible, especially when paired with warm pita bread or tortilla chips.

Moving on to the main courses, you'll find a variety of options to satisfy any appetite. From juicy burgers and mouthwatering steaks to fresh seafood and flavorful pasta dishes, the choices are endless. The burgers are made with high-quality beef and cooked to perfection, served on a toasted bun with your choice of toppings. The steaks are tender and flavorful, seasoned with a blend of herbs and spices that enhance their natural taste. The seafood is sourced fresh and prepared with care, whether it's grilled salmon, pan-seared scallops, or crispy fried shrimp. And the pasta dishes? From creamy Alfredo to zesty marinara, there's a pasta dish to suit every palate.

Don't forget about the sides! From crispy fries and onion rings to fresh salads and roasted vegetables, there are plenty of options to complement your meal. The fries are perfectly seasoned and crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside. The onion rings are battered and fried to a golden brown, offering a satisfying crunch with every bite. The salads are made with fresh greens and a variety of toppings, from crunchy croutons to tangy vinaigrettes. And the roasted vegetables? Seasoned with herbs and spices and roasted to perfection, they're a healthy and delicious way to round out your meal.

And of course, no meal is complete without dessert! Indulge in sweet treats like decadent chocolate cake, creamy cheesecake, or refreshing ice cream sundaes. The chocolate cake is rich and moist, with a fudgy frosting that will satisfy any sweet tooth. The cheesecake is creamy and smooth, with a graham cracker crust that adds a touch of sweetness. And the ice cream sundaes? A classic dessert that's perfect for any occasion, with your choice of ice cream flavors and toppings.

Must-Try Dishes at The Drive

Okay, so with such an extensive menu, it can be tough to decide what to order. Based on my experience and some insider tips, here are a few must-try dishes that you absolutely shouldn't miss:

1. The Drive Burger: This isn't just any burger, guys. It's a juicy, perfectly seasoned patty topped with all the fixings – crispy bacon, melted cheese, fresh lettuce, and their signature sauce. Trust me, it’s a flavor explosion in every bite. The Drive Burger is a true masterpiece, crafted with care and attention to detail. From the quality of the beef to the freshness of the toppings, every element is carefully selected to create the perfect burger experience. The patty is cooked to your preferred level of doneness, ensuring that it's juicy and flavorful. The bacon is crispy and adds a smoky, savory note. The cheese is melted and gooey, adding a creamy richness. The lettuce is crisp and refreshing, providing a contrast to the richness of the burger. And the signature sauce? It's the secret ingredient that ties everything together, adding a tangy, slightly sweet flavor that perfectly complements the other ingredients.

2. Lobster Mac & Cheese: Who can resist mac & cheese, especially when it's loaded with lobster? The Drive takes this classic comfort food to a whole new level. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with succulent lobster meat, it’s pure indulgence in a bowl. This dish is a true crowd-pleaser, loved by adults and children alike. The macaroni is cooked to perfection, ensuring that it's tender and slightly chewy. The cheese sauce is rich and creamy, made with a blend of cheeses that melt together to create a velvety smooth texture. And the lobster meat? It's the star of the show, adding a touch of luxury to this classic dish. Each bite is bursting with flavor, making it impossible to resist.

3. Grilled Salmon with Quinoa Salad: If you're looking for something a bit lighter but still incredibly flavorful, the grilled salmon is the way to go. The salmon is perfectly cooked, with a crispy skin and a moist, flaky interior. It's served with a vibrant quinoa salad that's packed with fresh veggies and a tangy vinaigrette. This dish is a healthy and delicious option that will leave you feeling satisfied and energized. The salmon is grilled to perfection, ensuring that it's cooked through but still moist and tender. The quinoa salad is a vibrant mix of colors and flavors, with fresh vegetables like cucumbers, tomatoes, and bell peppers adding a crisp and refreshing element. The tangy vinaigrette ties everything together, adding a zesty kick that complements the richness of the salmon.

4. Chocolate Lava Cake: Alright, dessert lovers, this one’s for you. Imagine a warm, gooey chocolate cake with a molten chocolate center that oozes out with every spoonful. Served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, it's the perfect way to end your meal on a sweet note. This dessert is a chocolate lover's dream come true. The cake is rich and decadent, with a fudgy texture that melts in your mouth. The molten chocolate center is warm and gooey, oozing out with every spoonful. And the vanilla ice cream? It's the perfect complement to the richness of the cake, adding a cool and creamy element that balances out the sweetness. Together, these elements create a dessert that is both indulgent and satisfying.

Ambiance and Location

Beyond the delicious food, The Drive offers a fantastic ambiance. Situated right by the Waterway, you can enjoy stunning views while you dine. The outdoor seating area is perfect for a sunny afternoon or a warm evening, making it a great spot for both casual lunches and special occasions. The location is also super convenient, whether you're taking a stroll along the Waterway or catching a show at the nearby Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion.

Final Thoughts

So, there you have it – a sneak peek into the delightful menu of The Drive by the Waterway. Whether you're a local or just visiting, make sure to add this spot to your list. With its diverse menu, beautiful location, and fantastic ambiance, it’s a dining experience you won’t want to miss. Happy eating, guys!