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The Best of New York · Eat · Date night

The best waterfront restaurants in New York City

Updated September 2026. 19 places.

It’s no surprise that New York City is home to a plethora of outstanding waterfront restaurants, after all, Manhattan is an island surrounded by rivers. I’m lucky enough to call the Big Apple home and experiencing a sunset with a cocktail in hand has been (and continues to be) one of the most mesmerizing moments etched in my memory.

In an effort to pass this feeling on to you (dear reader), I’ve created a list of the best restaurants on the water New York City has to offer. This list includes casual spots on piers for a cup of coffee and spots that allow you to dust off your fancy clothes and take them out on the town.

Antonina PattizWriter and photographer · how I decide
Best of New York 2026, New York Dearest

Best waterfront restaurants in New York City, 2026

  1. Cecconi’s DumboRestaurant · DUMBOThe location in DUMBO is one of the best restaurants on the water in NYC, perfectly dim-lit and intimate.
  2. CelestineRestaurant · DUMBOThe presentation is immaculate and the food tastes even better.
  3. Grand BanksRestaurant · TribecaGrand Banks is a seasonal waterfront restaurant in NYC, only opened during the sunny seasons.
  4. Industry KitchenRestaurant · Financial DistrictIndustry Kitchen is both modern and chic and the unobstructed views of the East River are some of the most calming.
  5. Malibu FarmRestaurant · South Street SeaportFor a scenic Taco Tuesday, Malibu Farm in New York offers an unbeatable combo of three tacos and craft margaritas.
  6. Mezze on the RiverRestaurant · Battery ParkThe honey-cigar appetizer (cheese wrapped in dough, drizzled with honey) is a must, and the grilled octopus is simply perfection.
  7. Roberta’s (Domino Park)Restaurant · WilliamsburgFor the best pizza in NYC, head to Roberta’s at Domino Park.
  8. Sea WolfRestaurant · WilliamsburgAlthough I’m far from a beach bum, Sea Wolf is one of the best restaurants on the water in NYC for putting me in a chill mood, bro.
  9. The Frying PanRestaurant · ChelseaA must-try is the calamari fritti.
  10. The Fulton (Jean- Georges)Restaurant · South Street SeaportThe Fulton holds a special place in my heart, largely for its stunning beauty.
  11. The River CaféRestaurant · DUMBONow the pricing isn’t for the faint of heart, it’ll run you around $200 per person.
  12. WatermarkRestaurant · Financial DistrictThe Watermark on Pier 15 is among NYC’s best seasonal waterfront restaurants, offering something new for every holiday.
  13. City VineyardRestaurant · TribecaThis delightful combination solidifies City Vineyard as one of NYC’s best waterfront restaurants.
  14. Giando on the WaterRestaurant · WilliamsburgEnjoy a romantic dinner date with a view of the One World Trade Center in all its glory.
  15. Hudson EatsRestaurant · Battery Park CityAlthough technically in a cafeteria setting, the views of the Hudson River (and Jersey City!) from the floor-to-ceiling windows are stunning.
  16. P.J Clark on the HudsonRestaurant · Financial DistrictNat King Cole dubbed their bacon cheeseburger the “Cadillac of hamburgers,” and it lives up to the hype.
  17. Pier-i CafeRestaurant · Riverside Park/Upper West SideThe menu features easy-to-eat fare—think lobster shack or burger bar vibes, no filet mignon here.
  18. SmorgasburgMarket · WilliamsburgThe Williamsburg location offers unbeatable views of Manhattan, providing a memorable experience with numerous waterfront restaurants in NYC to explore.
  19. Time Out MarketRestaurant · DUMBOTimeout Market consolidates the best waterfront restaurants in NYC into one building, offering 20+ unique dining experiences under one roof.

On the map

Where they are

9 neighborhoods, DUMBO and Williamsburg most of all.

DUMBO

Williamsburg

Financial District

South Street Seaport

Tribeca

Battery Park

Battery Park City

Chelsea

Riverside Park/Upper West Side

Best of New York 2026, New York Dearest

The Best of New York 2026

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The full guide, with the ones that didn't make it and why: 20 Waterfront Restaurants in NYC to Enjoy This Summer (2026 Guide).