12 New York Waterfront Towns With Restaurants Perfect for Relaxed Weekend Escapes
New York State is home to some of the most charming waterfront towns where you can enjoy fresh seafood, stunning views, and a peaceful atmosphere.
Whether you’re craving lobster rolls by the harbor or grilled fish with a sunset backdrop, these destinations offer the perfect mix of delicious dining and scenic relaxation.
Pack your bags and get ready to explore these hidden gems that make for unforgettable weekend getaways.
1. Claudio’s Waterfront
Greenport’s legendary Claudio’s has been serving up seafood since 1870. You’ll find everything from clam chowder to lobster tails, all served with a side of maritime history and harbor breezes. The outdoor seating puts you right on the water, where sailboats glide by and seagulls provide the soundtrack.
Families love the casual vibe, and couples appreciate the romantic sunset views that paint the sky in shades of orange and pink. The clam bar is a local favorite, offering freshly shucked oysters that taste like the ocean itself.
Whether you’re a seafood fanatic or just looking for a laid-back meal, this spot delivers on all fronts with charm and flavor to spare.
2. Le Bilboquet Sag Harbor
Sag Harbor brings a touch of French elegance to the Hamptons dining scene with Le Bilboquet, where European sophistication meets coastal charm.
This bistro serves up classic dishes like steak frites and Dover sole in a setting that feels both fancy and welcoming. Located at 1 Long Wharf, it offers direct harbor views and upscale French-American fare popular with weekend visitors.
Brunch here is practically a weekend ritual for locals and visitors alike, with fluffy omelets and croissants that transport you straight to Paris.
The staff treats every guest like a regular, adding warmth to the refined atmosphere. Don’t skip dessert—the crème brûlée is legendary and worth every calorie for a sweet ending to your meal.
3. Castaways Steak & Seafood
Port Jefferson’s Castaways offers waterfront dining with energetic yet laid-back flair, nestled at 106 Main St., Port Jefferson, NY 11777.
The menu brings together grilled fish, 12-oz NY strip steaks, seafood samplers and creative drinks, ideal for both weekend escapes and casual night-outs.
With large windows and an upstairs deck overlooking the marina, you’ll soak in sailboats and sunsets while enjoying comfort-meets-coastal plates. Outdoor seating and relaxed dress code make this spot perfect for friends, families or date night alike.
4. Harbor Crab Co.
Patchogue feels like a New England fishing village dropped into the Bronx, and Harbor Crab Co. fits right into that nautical vibe. Crabs are the star here: steamed, seasoned, and served by the pound for a hands-on dining experience that’s messy and magnificent.
Roll up your sleeves, grab a mallet, and prepare to get your fingers dirty while cracking into sweet, tender crabmeat. The waterfront patio offers breezy views of the Patchogue River, making it easy to lose track of time between bites.
Corn on the cob and Old Bay fries round out the menu with classic sides that complement the seafood perfectly. This spot is all about fun, flavor, and forgetting your worries for a few hours.
5. Sammy’s Fish Box
One City Island gem, Sammy’s Fish Box has been a neighborhood staple for decades, opening in the mid-1960s, dishing out no-frills seafood in generous portions. Lobster rolls overflow with meat, fried clams are golden and crispy, and the fish and chips could feed a small army. Locals swear by the authenticity and the prices that won’t drain your wallet.
The outdoor deck is where you want to be, especially on sunny afternoons when the breeze keeps things cool and comfortable.
It’s the kind of place where you come as you are, whether that’s in flip-flops or fancy sneakers, and leave completely satisfied.
6. Red Hat on the River
Irvington’s Red Hat on the River offers breathtaking Hudson River views paired with a menu that celebrates American comfort food with creative twists. From wood-fired pizzas to pan-seared salmon, every dish is crafted with care and served in a space that feels both rustic and refined. The floor-to-ceiling windows ensure that even indoor diners get spectacular water views year-round.
Located at 1 Bridge Street in Irvington, the restaurant occupies a restored 1910s factory and features rooftop and patio dining in warm weather. Outdoor seating in warmer months puts you right at the river’s edge, where you can watch trains rumble by on the opposite shore.
7. 3 Westerly Bar & Grill
Ossining’s 3 Westerly Bar & Grill combines waterfront dining with a menu that ranges from tacos to tuna steaks, ensuring there’s something for every palate.
The sprawling outdoor deck is the main attraction, stretching out over the Hudson River and providing unobstructed views that are especially magical at sunset. Live bands frequently perform, turning dinner into a full evening of entertainment.
The laid-back atmosphere attracts a diverse crowd, from boaters docking for lunch to families celebrating special occasions. Friendly bartenders and attentive servers make the experience smooth and enjoyable from start to finish.
8. Hudson House River Inn
Cold Spring’s Hudson House River Inn dates back to 1832, blending history with hospitality in a setting that feels timeless and tranquil.
The menu focuses on locally sourced ingredients, with dishes like braised short ribs and seared scallops that showcase the chef’s skill and attention to detail. Dining on the riverside patio feels like stepping into a postcard, with the river flowing gently just feet away.
The inn, located at 2 Main Street, also operates as a boutique hotel, making it ideal for overnight stays with direct river views. Afternoon tea service adds a touch of elegance for those seeking a lighter, more refined experience. It’s the perfect blend of cozy and classy, where every visit feels like a treat.
9. The Cornell Restaurant + Bar
Perched right along Rondout Landing on the Hudson River, this restaurant brings farm-to-table dining to a whole new level. The Cornell Restaurant + Bar sources ingredients from local Finger Lakes farms, creating dishes that taste as fresh as the lake breeze feels.
Floor-to-ceiling windows frame stunning water views, making every meal feel special. Their seasonal menu changes throughout the year, featuring everything from locally caught fish to vegetables grown just miles away. Outdoor seating lets you dine under the stars during warmer months.
After your meal, take a stroll along the nearby waterfront trails. The combination of sophisticated cuisine and natural beauty makes this spot ideal for couples or families seeking relaxation.
10. Bluewater Grill
Nothing beats biting into perfectly grilled fish while watching yachts bob gently in the harbor. Bluewater Grill is located in Skaneateles, overlooking Skaneateles Lake and offering diners a front-row seat to maritime activity and gorgeous sunsets that paint the sky in shades of orange and pink.
Their menu celebrates coastal cuisine with crowd-pleasers like lobster rolls, clam chowder, and catch-of-the-day specials. The atmosphere stays relaxed and welcoming, whether you’re dressed up or wearing your weekend casual clothes. Kids love spotting different types of boats while munching on fish and chips.
Live music on weekends adds extra energy to the experience. This spot truly captures that easygoing beach town vibe without leaving Long Island.
11. Stonecutter’s Tavern at Belhurst Castle
Ever dreamed of dining in a real castle? Stonecutter’s Tavern makes that fantasy come true with its location inside the magnificent Belhurst Castle, overlooking the shimmering waters of Seneca Lake. The stone walls and historic charm transport you to another era entirely.
This isn’t stuffy fine dining—the tavern atmosphere stays friendly and approachable. Their menu features comfort food classics with creative twists. Try sitting on the outdoor terrace where lake breezes keep you cool.
The surrounding gardens and lakefront make perfect spots for pre-dinner walks. Combining fairy-tale architecture with waterfront beauty creates an unforgettable dining adventure for the whole family.
12. Seneca Harbor Station
Who knew a former fire station could become one of the Finger Lakes’ coolest dining destinations? Seneca Harbor Station transformed this historic building into a vibrant restaurant where harbor views steal the show alongside creative American cuisine.
Located right at Watkins Glen’s harbor, you’ll watch boats come and go while enjoying everything from juicy burgers to fresh pasta dishes. The converted space keeps its industrial charm with exposed beams and big windows flooding the interior with natural light. Their outdoor seating area gets packed during summer weekends for good reason.
After eating, explore the nearby harbor walk or plan a gorge hiking adventure. The location makes it easy to combine great food with outdoor exploration throughout your weekend escape.