9 Arkansas Waterfront Restaurants Serving Trout With A Side Of Ozark Tranquility
Arkansas is home to some of the most beautiful waterfront dining spots in the country, where fresh trout meets stunning Ozark scenery.
Whether you’re casting a line on the White River or exploring the shores of Greers Ferry Lake, these restaurants offer more than just a meal—they serve up unforgettable views and mouthwatering dishes.
From cozy lakeside grills to classic fish houses perched right on the riverbank, each spot brings its own flavor of Southern hospitality and natural beauty.
Get ready to discover incredible places where your taste buds and your eyes will both be treated to something special.
1. Gaston’s Restaurant
Perched right on the legendary White River, Gaston’s Restaurant has been reeling in hungry anglers and nature lovers for decades.
The views here are as fresh as the trout on your plate—think sparkling water, towering bluffs, and the kind of peace that makes you forget about your phone.
Their menu celebrates local catches with perfectly prepared trout dishes that taste like they jumped from river to skillet.
Outdoor seating lets you soak in the riverside magic while you feast, making every bite better.
It’s the kind of place where good food and great scenery come together in perfect harmony.
Address: 1777 River Rd, Lakeview, AR 72642
2. PJ’s White River Lodge & River Run Restaurant
River Run Restaurant at PJ’s White River Lodge knows how to turn a simple meal into a memory you’ll treasure forever.
Their smoked trout is legendary among locals—tender, flavorful, and kissed with just the right amount of smokiness that’ll have you ordering seconds.
Floor-to-ceiling windows frame the White River like a living postcard, so every table feels like a front-row seat to nature’s show.
The casual fine dining vibe strikes a perfect balance between relaxed and refined, making it ideal for families or romantic evenings.
You’ll leave with a full belly and a camera roll packed with stunning water views.
Address: 384 Lodge Lane, Norfork, AR 72658
3. Anglers White River Resort Restaurant
Nothing beats patio dining at Anglers White River Resort, where the river stretches out before you like a shimmering blue ribbon.
This spot is an angler’s paradise that welcomes everyone, whether you’ve been fishing all day or just came for the incredible food and views.
Their local trout options are prepared with care and served with a side of genuine Ozark warmth that makes you feel right at home.
The sweeping river panoramas are especially magical during golden hour when the water glows and the whole world seems to slow down.
It’s outdoor dining at its finest, pure and simple.
Address:23080 AR-5, Allison, AR 72050
4. JoJo’s Catfish Wharf
JoJo’s Catfish Wharf is where down-home cooking meets the timeless beauty of the White River’s edge.
This iconic spot has been serving up seafood and smiles for years, earning a reputation as a must-visit for anyone exploring the Ozarks.
The casual riverbank ambiance invites you to kick back, relax, and enjoy your meal without any pretense or fuss.
While catfish is their namesake, the trout dishes hold their own with flavors that showcase the best of Arkansas waters.
It’s the kind of place where strangers become friends over shared plates and river stories that never get old.
Address:237 Jacks Resort Rd, Mountain View, AR 72560
5. Whispering Woods Cabins & Grill
Tucked along the shores of Lake Norfork, Whispering Woods Cabins & Grill offers hearty meals with a view that’ll take your breath away.
The patio seating puts you right near the water, where gentle waves lap against the shore and birds sing their evening songs.
Their menu features generous portions of comfort food that hit the spot after a day of exploring the lake or hiking nearby trails.
Trout lovers will appreciate the fresh preparations that let the natural flavors shine through without unnecessary fuss.
It’s a hidden gem where good food and peaceful lake views create the perfect recipe for relaxation.
Address:4245 Hwy 177 South, Jordan, AR 72519
6. Fred’s Fish House
Fred’s Fish House is a classic Arkansas institution that’s been frying up happiness right by the lake for generations.
The no-frills atmosphere lets the food and the scenery do all the talking, and boy, do they have a lot to say!
Their trout is cooked to golden perfection with a crispy exterior that gives way to tender, flaky goodness inside.
Scenic lake views provide the perfect backdrop for a meal that feels like coming home, even if it’s your first visit.
Locals swear by this place, and once you taste the food and see the view, you’ll understand exactly why.
Address:44 Hwy 101 Cutoff, Mountain Home, AR 72653
7. Cafe Klaser
Cafe Klaser’s porch seating gives you the feeling of dining right above the water, like you’re floating on air and good vibes.
After a long day of swimming, boating, or exploring the Heber Springs area, their hearty meals hit differently—in the best possible way.
The menu offers satisfying comfort food with generous portions that fuel your adventures and warm your soul.
Trout options are cooked just right, with flavors that honor the natural taste of these beautiful Arkansas fish.
The combination of delicious food and peaceful water views makes this cafe a favorite among locals and visitors who know where to find the good stuff.
Address:Heber Springs, AR 72543
8. Brave New Restaurant
While Brave New Restaurant might not specialize in trout, this Little Rock favorite earns its spot with stunning Arkansas River views and exceptional food.
The patio seating is wildly popular for good reason—watching the river flow by while you eat transforms an ordinary meal into something memorable.
Their creative menu showcases Arkansas ingredients prepared with skill and imagination that keeps diners coming back again and again.
It’s a beloved gathering place where the water views add an extra layer of enjoyment to every bite and every conversation.
Sometimes the best waterfront dining experiences come from unexpected places, and this restaurant proves that beautifully.
Address:Little Rock, AR (Arkansas River view)
9. Dondie’s White River Princess
Dondie’s White River Princess brings a touch of riverboat charm to your dining experience with classic buffet-style service and panoramic White River views.
The variety on the buffet means everyone in your group will find something they love, from traditional Southern favorites to fresh river fish.
Large windows frame the river like a constantly changing painting, with new scenes appearing as the light shifts throughout your meal.
It’s a unique dining concept that combines the best of Arkansas hospitality with the natural beauty that makes this state so special.
You’ll leave feeling satisfied, happy, and already planning your next visit to this one-of-a-kind spot.
Address:Des Arc, AR (on the White River)