Dine With a View at the Best Scenic Restaurant in Your State

There’s something to be said for dining in a picturesque spot, as it adds a special element to the meal. Restaurants with the best views often come with steep price tags, but sometimes they’re well worth it.

Rooftop restaurants offer sweeping city views, while those nestled in secluded spots let you bask in the beauty of Mother Nature. If you’re in the market for dinner with a view, here’s a list of the most scenic restaurants in every state, with many of the recommendations sourced through OpenTable’s “100 Most Scenic Restaurants in America for 2017” survey. Click through to see if these fine dining establishments worth the price have the views to match.

1. Alabama

Located in Mobile, Ala., Dauphin’s — on the 34th floor of the Trustmark Building — offers panoramic views of beautiful Mobile Bay. The menu consists of contemporary American cuisine with Creole and Caribbean influences and features dishes like the $42 Ono Island Tuna.

This casual-elegant spot also boasts the Mobile area’s first and only chef’s table, creating the ultimate dining experience.

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2. Alaska

Perched 2,300 feet above sea level, Seven Glaciers at Alyeska Resort in Girdwood, Alaska, offers sweeping glacier and ocean views from every table. Nestled in the Chugach Mountains on the state’s southern coast, the restaurant is a recipient of the 2017 Wine Spectator Best of Award of Excellence.

Dishes on the restaurant’s seasonal menu are crafted from local produce, seafood and game. For example, the summer 2017 menu featured a $42 salmon entree.

3. Arizona

Providing a truly Different Pointe of View, this aptly named Phoenix restaurant sits on North Mountain, offering floor-to-ceiling views of the stunning desert landscape below. Part of the Pointe Hilton Tapatio Cliffs Resort, it’s one of the most scenic restaurants you’ll ever dine at.

Positioned 1,800 feet above the Valley of the Sun, this fine dining spot serves up regional American cuisine made with fresh local and organic ingredients. Feast on delicacies like the $36 Confit Muscovy Duck & Ricotta Salata Ravioli or the chef’s daily featured dish.

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4. Arkansas

If you want dinner with a view in Arkansas, Brave New Restaurant in Little Rock won’t disappoint. Situated between the Arkansas River Trail and the banks of David D. Terry Lake, this casual-elegant eatery has a serene, picturesque setting.

There are only 68 seats in this tiny, contemporary American spot, so definitely make a reservation in advance. You’ll be grateful you planned ahead when you’re enjoying the $30 Mixed Grill on the waterfront patio.

5. California

Restaurants with a view don’t get much better than Las Brisas in Laguna Beach, Calif. Situated on a cliff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, this casual-elegant eatery serves up contemporary Mexican fare.

If you’re not able to score a window seat to savor your $42 Lobster Carbonara, simply step outside after dinner to soak in the stunning landscape and cool ocean breeze. Arrive before dinner to enjoy happy hour and live music at the restaurant’s Seaside Cantina.

6. Colorado

Situated on a hilltop high above Colorado Springs, Pepper Tree Restaurant offers dinner with a view of the city below. Perfect for a special occasion, the eatery invites you to slip on your finest business-casual attire to delight your taste buds on a menu heavy on steak and seafood entrees. Many items are prepared or finished tableside, including the 8-ounce Steak Diane for $49.95.

Even when you’re paying for the view, no one wants to spend too much when they don’t have to. These are the highest restaurant markups.

7. Connecticut

For a seafood dinner with a view, visit Harbor Lights Restaurant in Norwalk, Conn. Stationed on the Norwalk Harbor, this eatery features a heated, glassed-in terrace, allowing patrons to dine waterfront year-round. Enjoy inventive dishes like the Grilled Loup de Mer — featuring French sea bass — for $28.

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8. Delaware

If you want restaurants with a view in Delaware, visit 99 Sea Level at Bethany Beach. Located in the Marriott Bethany Beach Ocean Suites hotel, this farm-to-table restaurant specializes in American fare and local seafood. Just steps from the sand, the restaurant features views of the Atlantic Ocean that you can enjoy while dining on entrees like the $29.99 Chesapeake Bay Blue Crabcakes.

9. Florida

For dinner with a view of Little Sarasota Bay, visit Ophelia’s on the Bay. Located on Siesta Key in Sarasota, Fla., this fine dining establishment features two glass-walled dining rooms and an open-air patio, allowing you to view tropical birds and sea life, including dolphins and blue herons.

Accessible by land and water, this restaurant features sophisticated seafood dishes based on availability, such as the Gulf Yellowtail Snapper for $32.

10. Georgia

If you’re searching for restaurants with the best views in Georgia, look no further than Ray’s on the River, located approximately 13 miles northwest of Atlanta in Sandy Springs, Ga. Nestled on the banks of the Chattahoochee River, this lush, perfectly landscaped spot is known for its steaks and seafood. Don your best business-casual attire to feast on signature dishes like the $34 Salmon Oscar.

11. Hawaii

Restaurants with a view in Hawaii don’t get much better than 53 by the Sea, located in Honolulu. Take in the sights of Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head, while savoring delightful Hawaiian and Mediterranean fare, including the $32 Macadamia Nut Crusted Mahi Mahi.

Do note that collared shirts are required at this swanky oceanside establishment, so you’ll need to change out of your beachwear before dining.

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12. Idaho

Located on the picture-perfect pond at Parkcenter Park in Boise, Idaho, the Barbacoa Grill serves up dinner with a view. This casual steakhouse offers happy hour daily and doles out mouthwatering cuts of meat, including the 16-ounce New York Steak for $39.

Arrive early or stay late for drinks at the Luna Bar, offering views for miles from its rooftop location.

13. Illinois

Among the most scenic restaurants in Chicago, River Roast offers stunning sights from every seat in the house. Situated on the Chicago River, the eatery boasts both city and water views along with contemporary American fare from James Beard award-winning Chef Tony Mantuano and Executive Chef John Hogan. The menu changes monthly, but features roasts carved tableside, including the 24-ounce Rack of Pork for $43.

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14. Indiana

The only revolving rooftop restaurant in Indianapolis, The Eagle’s Nest serves up classic American cuisine crafted from fresh, local ingredients. Situated atop the Hyatt Regency Indianapolis, it offers 360-degree views of the downtown skyline, while delighting your palate with fare like the pan-seared scallops, which cost $34. One of the fancier rooftop restaurants, this spot is business casual.

15. Iowa

For restaurants with a view in Iowa, visit 360 Steakhouse at Harrah’s Council Bluffs Hotel and Casino in Council Bluffs. Take the elevator up to the 12th floor, and you’ll be greeted with sweeping views of the Missouri River and the Downtown Omaha skyline.

If you can’t decide between steak and seafood, order the $40 Steak & Cake, featuring a 6-ounce filet mignon and a jumbo lump crab cake. Plan ahead for your visit, as you’ll need to be wearing business-casual attire to dine in this establishment.

16. Kansas

Located on the waterfront in Wichita, Kan., Chester’s Chophouse & Wine Bar serves dinner with a view from two lakefront dining rooms and a covered patio. Dinner at this steakhouse doesn’t come cheap, as entrees like the “natural” strip steak and maple mustard salmon range from $31 to $60.

17. Kentucky

A truly elevated dining experience, Rivue Restaurant Lounge on the 25th floor of the Galt House Hotel in Louisville, Ky., offers gorgeous views of the cityscape and the Ohio River. This upscale restaurant and lounge specializes in contemporary fare, including the Peking duck breast, priced at $31. One of the most scenic restaurants in Louisville, Rivue is ideal for a special occasion dinner or event.

18. Louisiana

Part of the Dickie Brennan & Co. Restaurant Group, Tableau is located on Jackson Square at Le Petit Theatre, in the heart of the French Quarter in New Orleans. Secure a table on the patio of the three-story restaurant to enjoy dinner with a view of this historic street and some pretty epic people watching.

Inside the restaurant, enjoy watching Chef John Martin and his team prepare Louisiana Creole fare — including the $23 BBQ Shrimp and Grits — in the open kitchen beside the main dining room.

19. Maine

Once a private coastal home, Joseph’s By the Sea in Old Orchard Beach, Maine, serves up locally caught seafood with scenic views of the Atlantic Ocean. Family owned and operated since 1968, this casual-elegant spot offers inventive seafood dishes, such as the Haddock Carbonnade, which costs $24.

The restaurant offers a three-course tasting menu on Thursday and Friday evenings and also serves breakfast, allowing you to start your day with a delightful beachside meal.

20. Maryland

When searching for restaurants with the best views in Maryland, the BoatHouse Canton waterfront grill in Baltimore is pretty hard to beat. Located at Tindeco Wharf on the Baltimore Harbor, this restaurant uses fresh local ingredients to craft American fare — with an emphasis on seafood — like N’Awlins Shrimp & Grits, priced at $22.

The restaurant also features The DockBar on its outdoor patio area, which is dog friendly.

21. Massachusetts

If you want restaurants with a view in Massachusetts, Legal Harborside on the Boston Waterfront won’t disappoint. The flagship Legal Sea Foods property stands three stories tall and spans 20,000 square feet.

Featuring a retractable roof for alfresco dining on warm days, the massive restaurant is home to three different concepts. Menus vary throughout the complex — you can get fish and chips for $19.95 on the first floor — but you’ll get spectacular views no matter where you eat.

22. Michigan

If you want dinner with a view in Michigan, head to River Crab Blue Water Inn in St. Clair. Situated along the striking St. Clair River, the eatery lets you dine on seafood while watching boats drift along the water.

The expansive menu provides plenty of options, including the $33 Ultimate Seafood Mixed Trio. Arrive by car, park your boat right at the restaurant or dock your boat at the St. Clair Boat Harbor and take the complimentary shuttle to dine at this upscale-casual eatery.

23. Minnesota

Located in a turn-of-the-century building on historic Cathedral Hill in St. Paul, Minn., W.A. Frost and Company has a picturesque patio that’s second to none. Enjoy sustainable, locally sourced contemporary American fare, such as the $30 Iowa Pork Tenderloin, in a serene setting. Do note, patio reservations must be made by phone, so don’t reserve a table online if you want to dine alfresco.

24. Mississippi

Considering it’s located right on the sand, Shaggy’s Biloxi Beach is hard to beat when it comes to restaurants with the best views in Mississippi. Breathe in the refreshing ocean air from the Gulf of Mexico while dining on seafood specialties like the Royal Reds — consisting of a half-pound of royal red shrimp — priced at $15.99. You won’t get closer to the water unless you’re dining on a cruise, so take your time eating and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

25. Missouri

Situated on the stunning Lake of the Ozarks, Baxter’s Lakeside Grille is dinner with a view at its finest in Missouri. This Lake Ozark eatery serves up classic American cuisine year-round, with a heavy emphasis on steak and seafood. Try a little of both with the Baxter’s Duo — consisting of fresh, sushi-grade jumbo scallops and a 30-day aged Certified Angus beef 8-ounce filet — for $44.99.

More than just a pretty view, Baxter’s received the 2016 Diners’ Choice award from OpenTable, naming it one of the best restaurants in the Lake of the Ozarks area.

26. Montana

Located in West Yellowstone, Mont., Bar N Ranch is a guest ranch with an onsite restaurant situated less than 10 miles from the entrance to Yellowstone National Park. Take in the glorious work of Mother Nature from the rustic-chic dining room, and don’t be surprised to enjoy dinner with a view of local wildlife trotting by the window. The menu is subject to change, but expect entrees like Slow Smoked BBQ Chicken, priced at $12.

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27. Nebraska

Timber Dining Room inside the Lied Lodge & Conference Center in Nebraska City, Neb., serves up nature-inspired contemporary American fare with stunning views of Arbor Day Farm. When the weather cooperates, you can even enjoy house specialties like the $25 Plum Creek Farms Airline Chicken on the outdoor patio. Take in the beautiful surroundings while enjoying the peace and quiet that comes with the secluded setting.

28. Nevada

Las Vegas has plenty of restaurants with a view, but the Eiffel Tower Restaurant in the Paris Las Vegas Hotel is something special. Designed to emulate the feel of the famed landmark, the Eiffel Tower restaurant sits above The Strip and offers striking views of the Bellagio fountains across the street. As expected, this fine-dining restaurant serves up pricey French fare, including the Individual Eiffel Tower Beef Wellington for $68.

29. New Hampshire

It’s hard to compete with the Café Lafayette Dinner Train for restaurants with the best view in New Hampshire, because this traveling eatery takes you on a 20-mile, round-trip journey through the state’s White Mountains. Hop onboard the train in North Woodstock and then take in the sights during the two-hour, five-course dinner.

The cost per adult is $85 for main level dining and $95 to dine on the dome level. Menus are prix fixe and change seasonally, but consist of new American fare like grilled salmon steak and eggplant rollatini.

30. New Jersey

Tucked far away from the hustle and bustle of the city, the Walpack Inn is located in the heart of the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. Take in views of the Kittatinny Mountain Range from the Greenhouse dining room, while enjoying steak, seafood and new American fare, such as the $28 beef short ribs. Visit the Walpack Inn website for directions prior to your visit, as the restaurant notes that GPS doesn’t always navigate to the correct location. If you’re inspired by the beef at the Walpack Inn, learn how to cook a perfect restaurant-style steak at home.

31. New Mexico

Sandiago’s Grill at the Tram serves up contemporary Southwestern cuisine at the base of the famed Albuquerque, N.M., Sandia Tramway. Delight your eyes with stunning views of the Greater Albuquerque area, while enjoying entrees like the $25 grilled filet tampiquena. Make an evening of it by taking a ride on the tram before or after your dinner with a view.

32. New York

New York City is filled with rooftop restaurants, but dining doesn’t get much prettier than Lakeside Restaurant at the Loeb Boathouse in Central Park. This casual-elegant spot serves up classic American cuisine, such as the Coffee-Chili Rubbed Pork Loin, priced at $36.

Enjoy the serenity of dining next to the lake, while the beautiful city skyline peaks out above the trees. Lakeside Restaurant was honored by OpenTable with a 2015 Diners’ Choice Award, so expect the food to be as good as the scenery.

33. North Carolina

The Bistro at Topsail serves up Southern cuisine on the water in Surf City, N.C. Not only does dinner at this elegant waterside spot come with stunning views, but you also get to enjoy the works of Executive Chef Bud Taylor.

Expect your tastebuds to be dancing, as the restaurant is a winner of the James Beard Foundation’s 2017 Blended Burger Project. Menus change daily, but if you’re not in the mood for a burger, expect offerings like $28 slow-roasted duck.

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34. North Dakota

If you’re not a golfer, then you’ve probably never been to the Bois De Sioux Golf Course in Wahpeton, N.D. — in which case, you’re missing out, because it has one of the most scenic restaurants in the state. Nestled among beautifully landscaped greenery, the Bois De Sioux Grille Room serves up casual fare like the $10 chicken bacon ranch wrap from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily. The public is welcome at the golf course, so stop in for dinner with a view, even if you don’t partake in the sport.

35. Ohio

Bay Harbor in Sandusky, Ohio, is located on the water at the Cedar Point Marina, making it one of the state’s most scenic restaurants. Perfect for local residents and those in town visiting the Cedar Point amusement park, this seafood establishment offers beautiful views of Sandusky Bay. Menus are seasonal but include entrees with a regional flare, such as the $25 “Local Hero” Lake Erie Perch.

36. Oklahoma

When it comes to restaurants with the best view in Oklahoma, Vast takes the cake. Located on the 49th floor of the Devon Tower in Oklahoma City, the fine dining establishment serves up locally inspired and sourced American cuisine from 726.2 feet in the sky. Take advantage of the unique opportunity to sit among the clouds while enjoying the Oklahoma Free Range Chicken, priced at $32.

37. Oregon

For views that just won’t quit in Oregon, visit the Portland City Grill, located 30 floors above Downtown Portland. Specializing in steak and fresh seafood, the restaurant lets you try menu items like the $43 Apple Smoked Pork Loin Double Chop while you enjoy sweeping views of the city and the Cascade Mountains. Do note, window tables can’t be reserved, but you can request one upon arrival.

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38. Pennsylvania

Perched atop Mt. Washington, Altius offers stunning views of Downtown Pittsburgh. Rated Four Diamond by AAA, the restaurant serves up contemporary American cuisine, including the Jubilee Hilltop Ranch Veal Saltimbocca Ravioli, priced at $40. Note that jackets are the preferred attire for men.

39. Rhode Island

If you want dinner with a view in Rhode Island, 15 Point Road Restaurant in Portsmouth is your place. Situated along the Sakonnet River, the restaurant offers panoramic windows with sweeping views of the river and the ocean beyond it.

Book a reservation after sunset to take in the mesmerizing sight of the moonlit river, while feasting on the steak-and-seafood-focused menu, including the $26 Sesame Pan Seared Tuna Steak.

40. South Carolina

Housed on the east side of the Charleston peninsula, Fleet Landing Restaurant & Bar is a waterfront seafood eatery that serves up picturesque views. Located at the end of City Market in Historic Downtown Charleston, this upscale casual spot is one of the more affordable restaurants with a view, as the weekday menu features $9.99 Blue Plate Specials, including Shrimp Pot Pie on Thursdays. Yes, it’s possible to eat out and still save money.

41. South Dakota

Located in Falls Park, the aptly named Falls Overlook Cafe sits to the east bank of Big Sioux River, in Sioux Falls, S.D. This casual cafe offers both indoor and outdoor seating, with spectacular views of the falls. The eatery closes for the winter, but during the other three seasons of the year, you can enjoy affordable entrees, including the $8.85 Dakota Cuban.

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42. Tennessee

Head to Virago in Nashville, Tenn., for inventive Japanese fare and a rooftop terrace with stunning views of the cityscape. Named “Best Sushi” by Nashville Lifestyles in 2017, it offers a variety of sashimi and makimono offerings, including the $19 Rainbow Box. Dress is business casual, so get a little spruced up to enjoy your sushi with a view.

43. Texas

Towering 50 floors above Downtown Dallas, Five Sixty by Wolfgang Puck offers 360-degree city views through floor-to-ceiling windows. Focused on Asian fare, entrees include the Lacquered Chinese Duckling, priced at $44. If you’re looking for a more casual dinner with a view, the restaurant also features two bars.

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44. Utah

Log Haven Restaurant serves up dinner with a view from 40 private acres in the Wasatch National Forest in Salt Lake City. Situated in a historic log mansion approximately 13 miles from the city’s downtown area, the eatery is a regular presence on both local and U.S. “Best of” lists, thanks to its stunning natural scenery and celebrated cuisine. Entrees on the contemporary American menu range in price from $27 to $45, and include Dungeness crab risotto.

45. Vermont

Perfect for a special occasion or a casual meal, Simon Pearce Restaurant in Quechee, Vt., serves up new American fare against the scenic setting of the Ottauquechee River waterfall and covered bridge. Soak in the gloriously quaint views from your table while delighting your palate with entrees like the $28 Spiced Pork Osso Buco.

46. Virginia

Soak in the views of Virginia’s wine country at the Chateau Morrisette Restaurant, nestled amid the Blue Ridge Mountains in Floyd. Views of the vineyards and stunning mountain landscape are bountiful from each dining room and the dog-friendly patio. More than just a pretty setting, it also features hand-crafted wine and farm-to-table cuisine, including the $37 duck breast.

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47. Washington

If you want restaurants with a view, it’s hard to beat Westward in Seattle. Situated on the north shore of Lake Union, the eatery boasts stunning lake and city skyline views from every seat in the house.

Opt to dine on water-inspired cuisine like the $27 Wood-Oven Roasted Rainbow Trout at an indoor table or on the restaurant’s large deck, beach area or around the fire pit. Leave your car at home and travel to Westward by boat, kayak or paddleboard, and tie your vessel up to its 100-foot dock.

48. West Virginia

Part of the Oglebay Resort in Wheeling, W.V., the Ihlenfeld Dining Room offers picturesque views of Schenk Lake and the surrounding countryside. Dine on American-style fare, such as the $33 Pumpkin Seed Dusted Tuna, while enjoying the natural beauty of West Virginia.

Also a great place to indulge, this family-friendly restaurant puts on brunch, seasonal and holiday buffets, offering plenty of opportunities to treat your loved ones to a scenic culinary experience.

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49. Wisconsin

For more than 40 years, Weissgerber’s Golden Mast Inn has been serving up traditional German and European fare along the backdrop of the stunning Lake Okauchee. Head to Okauchee, Wis., to experience these picturesque views for yourself, while dining on house specialties like the wiener schnitzel, priced at $28.50. Also a special event venue, the setting makes for a beautiful wedding, family reunion or office party.

50. Wyoming

Wyoming is filled with spectacular landscapes, but it’s hard to surpass the view at The Granary Restaurant at Spring Creek Ranch in Jackson. Located approximately five miles from the city’s downtown area, this fine dining establishment is perched on top of a butte facing the valley floor. Enjoy a sweeping view of the Tetons from the restaurant’s open-air patio or the floor-to-ceiling windows in the rustic dining room.

While gazing at the Tetons, treat your tastebuds to delectable western cuisine. The menu changes seasonally, but might include entrees like the Scottish Loch Salmon, priced at $32.

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About the Author

Laura Woods

Laura is a writer with nearly 10 years of experience in marketing and personal finance. She is a Los Angeles-based writer specializing in personal finance, higher education, legal matters and marketing. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communications from the University of Pittsburgh and an MBA from Robert Morris University.

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