While going out for dinner is always a treat, the experience can certainly be enhanced if there’s a stunning waterfront view. Because, why merely feed your stomach when you can feast your eyes on something equally delicious? On the beautiful shores of Rhode Island many establishments offer cuisine in picturesque settings, and as the weather grows warmer your odds of landing a table grow slimmer.
From dining under the sunset to a restaurant that has its own beach, check out 12 RI restaurants with stunning waterfront dining:
AL’S WATERFRONT RESTAURANT & LOUNGE
East Providence, RI
When “waterfront” is in the name you know it’s going to be a good one! This seasonal American restaurant offers a full menu, live entertainment and, of course, seating right by the water. This casual dining spot is a cool place to venture with a group of friends or just to have drinks and enjoy the water.
Tiverton, RI
Recognized as “one of the Top Scenic Views in the United States by OpenTable diners,” this restaurant serves up innovative seafood and oozes nautical charm. Tucked away on Mount Hope Bay, The Boathouse is aptly named. Diners frequently gaze out at the boats passing along, through either the oversized open windows or while dining on the outdoor deck. If you can make your dinner reservation at the right time, watching the sunset while you eat is truly a spectacle.
South Kingstown, RI
Fresh seafood, sushi, raw bar, live music and panoramic views of Salt Pond are just the beginning. You can come by boat, car or bike to this spectacular waterfront dining destination! Sit below and you feel like you are actually out on the dock…or sit inside the dining room and you will be set out on the water with sweeping views of Salt Pond. This is another place to watch a sunset and sip on a creative co*cktail!
Narragansett, RI
First of all – awesome name, right? In the late 1800’s, the United States Life Saving Service (now called the US Coast Guard) built a station of solid granite overlooking Narragansett Bay. In the 1940s, it became home to Coast Guard House Restaurant. With locally harvested seafood and incredible views, Coast Guard House has been recognized on a state and national level as a premier dining destination.Truly there is no sour sight in this casual establishment. Don’t believe us? Check out the virtual tours of their dining room, oceanfront deck, bar, patio and more! Definitely one of the best waterfront dining options in RI!
Photo: Drake Jackson
Warwick, RI
If you’re looking for a quick and cozy bite that packs a lovely view, look no further than Crow’s Nest! Snuggled across from the Ponaug Marina, this family eatery has been around since the mid-60’s. Although it’s changed ownership over the years, the name and mission have remained the same. Grab some fish and chips and enjoy marina views!
South Kingstown, RI
The sunsets over Potters Pond are truly magical. Even more magical, knowing the oysters you are eating were grown right in front of you. The outdoor area offers a majestic view of Potters Pond that is simply breathtaking. Matunuck Oyster Bar offers raw bar (featuring their own oysters), local produce (from Matunuck Farms), fresh seafood, and so much more. This is a must on your restaurant bucket list!
Bristol, RI
The DeWolf Tavern serves up contemporary cuisine in a historically renovated stone warehouse. Located on the Thames Street Landing waterfront, the view is divine. Guests can enjoy the breeze from the bay on their outdoor patio, dip inside for a glass of wine and a light meal in the downstairs tavern or go upstairs to enjoy the view and cozy fireplace. In the summer, dining is always impeccable under their waterfrontdeck tent or in their private dining rooms, which hold a stunning view of the harbor.
Jamestown, RI
This award-winning seafood restaurant proudly sits on the Narragansett Bay. While they offer fine dining in a casual setting with a European-inspired menu, the best part is their view. On the second floor of FiSH is their popular “Bridge Bar,” which boasts excellent glances at the Newport Bridge. Open Wednesdays through Sundays, you can grab a co*cktail and park yourself at the bar starting at 4 p.m.
Port of Galilee, RI
Overlooking the Block Island Sound in the fishing port of Galilee, George’s seafood restaurant has been serving generations its award-winning dishes since 1948. Considered a landmark, the waterfront haunt is the largest waterfront restaurant in Rhode Island, seating roughly 500 people. They give diners a wide selection of food like: fresh local boat-to-plate seafood, farm-to-table vegetables, a seasonal sushi menu, lobster specials, and fresh hand-cut steaks. Choose from six different dining rooms, al fresco dining or their takeout window. All of them promise a spectacular waterfront view! George’s of Galilee even has its own beach and provides beach blanket service during the summer.How’s that for a view?
Newport, RI
At the end of Newport’s historic Bowen’s Wharf you’ll find this charming dockside eatery. With a splendid view of the Harbor, the Landing is one of the paramount scenes in Newport. The restaurant offers a variety of fine dining, seafood, rawbar, bar snacks, appetizers and entertainment with unparalleled views.
THE MOORING SEAFOOD KITCHEN & BAR
Newport, RI
For over 25 years, The Mooring has provided RI with fine seafood, existing under Newport Restaurant Group. Guests can marvel at the restaurant’s panoramic views of Narragansett Bay from virtually every seat in their indoor and outdoor space. During warmer weather, choose to dine on their expanded Mahogany deck, which has pristine water views and creates a picturesque atmosphere for al fresco dining.
Portsmouth, RI
Voted the “#1 Restaurant” in Portsmouth, this popular pick is beautifully situated along the Sakonnet River. 15 Point has casual upscale dining with an enchanting river view. From the moment you sit down, you will be entranced by the sight of the Sakonnet which leads out to the ocean and beyond through the restaurant’s panorama windows. While enjoying Al Fresco dining on their deck, diners can spot the local fishing boats as they make their way to the Tiverton fish market. If you’re lucky enough, you might even catch one of the local lobstermen heading out to tend to his traps in Mount Hope Bay!
Did we miss your favorite place with a waterfront view? Add it in the comments below!
