The sun is shining in Seattle and you want to soak it up with an excellent meal by the waterfront—but where to go? Fortunately there is no shortage of waterfront restaurants in Seattle, thanks to Elliott Bay, Lake Washington, and the many other bodies of water in the Emerald City. We’ve rounded up a dozen of the very best Seattle waterfront restaurants in various neighborhoods, from the downtown piers to West Seattle.
Here are the top Seattle waterfront restaurants:
1. Salt District, Pier 55
Salt District just opened their new waterfront patio on Pier 55, right by downtown Seattle. This Italian restaurant serves up classic Italian dishes and fresh seafood fare along with cocktails that go great with a sunset over Elliott Bay.
1101 Alaskan Way
2. Elliott’s Oyster House, Pier 56
A Seattle institution, Elliott’s Oyster House (and its waterfront patio) is a must for oysters on a sunny day in Seattle.
1201 Alaskan Wy Ste 100
3. Marination Ma Kai, West Seattle
Enjoy a stunning view of the city skyline plus delicious Hawaiian fare on Marination Ma Kai’s waterfront patio. It’s extra-fun to take the water taxi there from downtown Seattle to cool off on a sunny day.
1660 Harbor Ave SW
4. Ray’s Cafe, Ballard
Ray’s Cafe is the best place to get fresh seafood in Ballard, thanks to its waterfront patio with stunning views.
6049 Seaview Ave NW
5. Westward, Wallingford
Westward in Wallingford makes full use of its scenic location by putting out Adirondack chairs and festive striped umbrellas. You can enjoy the view of Lake Union and the city skyline while dining on Mediterranean fare, sustainable seafood, and refreshing cocktails.
2501 N Northlake Way
6. The White Swan Public House, South Lake Union
The White Swan is an excellent place to get oysters in the South Lake Union/Eastlake area, although their burger is fantastic as well. Their rustic waterfront patio is a relaxing place to be on a sunny day in Seattle.
1001 Fairview Ave N
7. Salty’s on Alki Beach, West Seattle
Located smack-dab on Alki Beach, Salty’s serves upscale surf and turf along with epic views of the Seattle skyline.
1936 Harbor Ave SW
8. Agua Verde Cafe, University District
Relax by the water with Baja-style Mexican food and margaritas at Agua Verde Cafe’s Marina Cantina.
1303 NE Boat St
9. AQUA by El Gaucho, Pier 70
Aqua is an upscale steakhouse on the downtown Seattle waterfront that is perfect for special occasions. When seated on their patio you’ll be treated to views of Elliott Bay, the Olympic Mountains, and even Mount Rainier on clear days.
2801 Alaskan Wy Pier 70
10. Old Stove Brewing, Pike Place Market
1901 Western Ave
11. Magnuson Cafe & Brewery, Sand Point
You can enjoy over a dozen tap beers and hearty pub fare at this brewhouse restaurant that has a scenic view of a Lake Washington from its deck.
7801 62nd Ave NE
12. Harry’s Beach House, West Seattle
True to its name, Harry’s Beach House is located right on Alki Beach in West Seattle. Their seasonal and local menu pairs well with a cocktail and a view of Elliott Bay.
2676 Alki Ave SW