19 U.S. Cities With Stunning Waterfront Dining Views and Amazing Food
There’s nothing quite like savoring a delicious meal while gazing out over a scenic body of water. Waterfront dining offers not only exceptional food but also the calming backdrop of lakes, rivers, or oceans.
Across the U.S., cities with prime waterfront locations have taken full advantage of their surroundings, creating some of the best dining experiences you can find. From seafood by the shore to chic urban riverfront restaurants, these 19 U.S. cities deliver world-class waterfront dining that you’ll never forget.
1. San Francisco, California
San Francisco’s waterfront is famous for its stunning views of the bay and the Golden Gate Bridge. The city’s iconic Pier 39 and Fisherman’s Wharf are home to some of the best seafood restaurants in the country.
With fresh Dungeness crab and sourdough bread on offer, waterfront dining here is a must.
2. Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston’s waterfront dining scene is steeped in Southern charm and rich flavors. With views of the Charleston Harbor, restaurants like Fleet Landing serve up Lowcountry classics like shrimp and grits.
The historic city’s waterfront eateries combine fresh seafood with unbeatable views.
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3. Miami, Florida
Miami’s vibrant dining scene extends right to the water, where you’ll find chic oceanfront restaurants serving everything from fresh seafood to Cuban cuisine. With spots like La Mar and the famous Joe’s Stone Crab, you can dine while watching the waves roll in.
Miami’s blend of Latin flavors and waterfront elegance is unmatched.
4. Seattle, Washington
Seattle’s waterfront is alive with fresh seafood, stunning views of Elliott Bay, and the iconic Pike Place Market. You can enjoy dishes like grilled salmon or clam chowder while looking out over the water at restaurants like Elliott’s Oyster House.
Seattle’s waterfront dining showcases the bounty of the Pacific Northwest.
5. New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans offers waterfront dining along the Mississippi River with its famous Cajun and Creole dishes. The French Quarter’s historic charm, combined with river views at restaurants like the Riverfront Grill, creates a dining experience full of flavor and history.
Beignets and jambalaya by the river? Yes, please.
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6. Boston, Massachusetts
Boston’s waterfront is known for its historic charm and its love of seafood, especially lobster rolls and clam chowder. The city’s Seaport District offers a mix of casual and upscale dining, with panoramic views of the Boston Harbor.
Whether you’re at Legal Sea Foods or The Barking Crab, Boston’s waterfront dining is as iconic as its dishes.
7. Chicago, Illinois
Chicago’s Riverwalk offers some of the best waterfront dining in the Midwest, with stunning views of the Chicago River and the city’s towering skyline. Restaurants like City Winery and RPM on the Water bring top-tier dining to this vibrant urban waterfront.
Chicago’s waterfront combines fine dining with a scenic city experience.
8. San Diego, California
San Diego’s waterfront is a paradise for seafood lovers, with many restaurants offering views of the Pacific Ocean and the city’s marinas. Head to The Marine Room or George’s at the Cove for exceptional dining experiences by the beach.
With fresh seafood and unbeatable sunsets, San Diego makes waterfront dining feel like a vacation.
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9. Savannah, Georgia
Savannah’s riverfront dining along the Savannah River is full of Southern hospitality and traditional Lowcountry dishes. Restaurants like The Chart House and Vic’s on the River provide a mix of historic charm and beautiful views.
With cobblestone streets and riverboats passing by, it’s a magical setting for a meal.
10. Honolulu, Hawaii
Honolulu’s waterfront dining offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, along with some of the freshest seafood you’ll find anywhere. Whether you’re enjoying a poke bowl or a gourmet dinner at places like House Without a Key, the view of the sun setting over Waikiki Beach makes it even more special.
Hawaiian cuisine by the water is truly unforgettable.
11. Portland, Maine
Portland’s Old Port district is home to some of the best waterfront dining in New England, featuring fresh lobster, oysters, and more. With views of Casco Bay and historic wharves, restaurants like Fore Street and Eventide Oyster Co. offer quintessential Maine dining.
Portland’s waterfront is a seafood lover’s paradise, with a side of nautical charm.
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12. Annapolis, Maryland
Annapolis, known for its sailing culture, offers waterfront dining that showcases Chesapeake Bay’s seafood bounty. With crab cakes, oysters, and waterfront views at restaurants like Chart House, Annapolis is a haven for seafood lovers.
The historic charm of this sailing town makes dining by the water a special treat.
13. Newport, Rhode Island
Newport’s coastal charm and historic harbor make it a prime destination for waterfront dining. Restaurants like The Mooring and 22 Bowen’s serve up fresh seafood with views of Newport Harbor.
Newport’s nautical heritage and stunning waterfront make every dining experience feel like a special occasion.
14. Austin, Texas
While Austin is more famous for its music scene, its waterfront dining along Lady Bird Lake is equally impressive. Restaurants like The Hula Hut combine great food with peaceful views of the lake, offering a relaxing dining experience.
With paddleboarders and kayakers gliding by, Austin’s waterfront dining feels laid-back and unique.
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15. Key West, Florida
Key West’s waterfront dining offers not only stunning ocean views but also a taste of fresh seafood straight from the Gulf of Mexico. Restaurants like Louie’s Backyard serve dishes that blend tropical flavors with Southern charm.
Dining in Key West feels like a feast for the senses, with ocean breezes and sunsets as your backdrop.
16. Baltimore, Maryland
Baltimore’s Inner Harbor is a lively waterfront filled with restaurants that offer everything from crab cakes to international cuisine. The views of the harbor, combined with iconic dishes at places like Rusty Scupper, make for an unforgettable dining experience.
Whether you’re craving seafood or something more eclectic, Baltimore’s waterfront has it all.
17. Tampa, Florida
Tampa’s Riverwalk offers a mix of casual and upscale dining, with stunning views of the Hillsborough River. Restaurants like Ulele serve up local ingredients with waterfront flair, making Tampa’s dining scene both vibrant and scenic.
From seafood to Southern-inspired dishes, Tampa’s waterfront dining is a must-try.
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18. Monterey, California
Monterey’s waterfront dining along Cannery Row offers spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean and Monterey Bay’s marine life. Enjoy fresh seafood at restaurants like The Sardine Factory while watching sea otters play in the water.
The combination of coastal beauty and gourmet dining makes Monterey’s waterfront truly exceptional.
19. Nashville, Tennessee
Nashville’s waterfront dining along the Cumberland River offers a perfect blend of Southern hospitality and urban charm. With views of the river and skyline, restaurants like The George Jones serve classic Southern dishes with a scenic twist.
Nashville’s dining scene is filled with flavor and character, just like the city itself.
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