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. 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
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. Old Stove Brewing, Pike Place Market
1901 Western Ave
10. 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. Magnuson Cafe & Brewery even has heated outdoor dining.
7801 62nd Ave NE
11. Driftwood, West Seattle
Located on Alki Beach with Puget Sound views, Driftwood is only a couple years old but already has cemented its place in the Seattle dining scene. Their menu is focused on seasonal PNW ingredients, from fresh seafood to craft cocktails. Their window counter and bar are reserved for walk-ins.
2722 Alki Ave SW
12. COMO, Kirkland
COMO is perched on the edge of Lake Washington in Kirkland. They specialize in handmade pasta, Italian wines, and local seasonal ingredients.
1270 Carillon Point
13. El Encanto, Kirkland
Located just below their sister restaurant COMO, the newer El Encanto is an equally good option if you’re more in the mood for Mexican food. You can enjoy the waterfront view with a cocktail while lounging on a couch under an umbrella—practically a mini vacation.
14. Six Seven Restaurant, Belltown
With several musical claims to fame including a visit from The Beatles, Seattle’s Edgewater Hotel is a longtime icon. It also has a pretty great waterfront restaurant. The Edgewater’s Six Seven Restaurant has seasonal seafood and a sparkling view of Elliott Bay. The hotel coffee shop, The Brim, is also a scenic place to relax if you just want a light bite.