11 Idaho Waterfront Restaurants With River And Lake Views Worth The Trip
Forget the standard table-with-a-view; in Idaho, the view is the main course.
If you’ve ever found yourself scrolling through Yelp, dreaming of a patio where the only sounds are loons and the clinking of ice, this list is your salvation.
Finding a truly great waterfront meal-one that doesn’t serve microwaved fish sticks just because they have scenery-is a quest.
Fortunately, we’ve done the heavy lifting.
Prepare to meet 11 incredible spots that prove Idaho’s culinary scene is as gorgeous as its geography.
Your next perfect lake day starts here.
1. Dockside – Coeur D’alene
Picture yourself sitting in a dining room where floor-to-ceiling windows frame one of the most gorgeous alpine lakes in America.
That’s exactly what you get at Dockside, the signature restaurant inside The Coeur d’Alene Resort.
The massive picture windows don’t just offer a peek at the water, they practically put you right on Lake Coeur d’Alene.
Menu options range from perfectly grilled steaks to fresh Pacific Northwest seafood, all prepared with care and creativity.
Service here matches the elegant atmosphere, making every visit feel like a special occasion.
The combination of stunning views and top-notch cuisine makes Dockside worth every penny.
You’ll find it at: 115 S 2nd St, Coeur d’Alene
2. The Cedars Floating Restaurant – Coeur D’alene
Few restaurants can claim they literally float on the water, but The Cedars pulls it off beautifully.
This classic Idaho gem sits right on Lake Coeur d’Alene, bobbing gently with the waves beneath your feet.
Walking across the dock to reach your table adds a fun element of adventure to your dining experience.
Seafood lovers find plenty to celebrate here, from buttery lobster tails to perfectly seared salmon fillets. Steak eaters aren’t left out either, with juicy cuts cooked to perfection.
The menu balances surf and turf options with skill and attention to flavor.
My cousin visited last summer and couldn’t stop raving about the crab legs and waterfront ambiance.
The casual yet refined atmosphere makes it perfect for both date nights and family gatherings.
Located at: 1514 S Marina Dr, Coeur d’Alene
3. Terraza Waterfront Grill – Coeur D’alene
Terraza brings a modern twist to waterfront dining with its sleek design and prime location on the Spokane River.
The outdoor patio sits mere feet from the flowing water, creating a soothing soundtrack for your meal.
Contemporary styling meets Northwest comfort in every corner of this popular spot.
Fresh ingredients shine in dishes that blend classic American fare with creative seasonal touches.
Burgers, salads, and grilled fish all get the gourmet treatment here.
River views change with the seasons, from rushing spring waters to calm summer currents.
Staff members are friendly and knowledgeable, always ready with recommendations.
Weekend brunch here has become a local tradition for good reason.
You can find it at: 1950 Bellerive Ln #106, Coeur d’Alene
4. Anthony’s At Riverstone – Coeur D’alene
Anthony’s has built a reputation across the Pacific Northwest for serving incredibly fresh seafood, and this Riverstone location doesn’t disappoint.
Peaceful waterfront views create a relaxing backdrop for meals that celebrate ocean bounty.
Wild salmon, Dungeness crab, and oysters on the half shell are menu highlights that keep customers coming back.
Non-seafood options like chicken and pasta ensure everyone finds something delicious.
The commitment to freshness shows in the clean, bright flavors of each dish.
Outdoor seating lets you soak up sunshine and water views during warmer months.
Inside, large windows ensure you never lose sight of the beautiful surroundings.
At: 1926 W Riverstone Dr, Coeur d’Alene
5. The Cutwater On Payette Lake – Mccall
Casual vibes meet spectacular scenery at The Cutwater, where Payette Lake spreads out before you like a sparkling blue carpet.
Located at Shore Lodge, this restaurant offers the kind of laid-back atmosphere that makes vacation dining so enjoyable.
Local Idaho ingredients appear throughout the offerings, from potatoes to regional produce.
Cold drinks taste even better when enjoyed with your toes pointed toward the lake.
I spent a July afternoon here once and watched paddleboarders glide past while munching on fish tacos.
Families love the relaxed environment where kids can be themselves.
Mountain peaks frame the lake in the distance, completing the postcard-perfect view.
Found at: 501 W Lake St, McCall
6. The Narrows Steakhouse – Mccall
When the occasion calls for something special, The Narrows Steakhouse delivers elegance and flavor in equal measure.
Also located at Shore Lodge, this upscale venue takes waterfront dining to sophisticated heights.
Premium steaks aged to perfection are the stars here, cooked exactly how you like them.
Fresh seafood options and creative appetizers round out a menu designed to impress.
Sunset timing is everything at this restaurant, when golden light dances across the lake’s surface.
Servers provide attentive service without being intrusive, striking the perfect balance.
Reservations are highly recommended, especially during McCall’s busy summer season.
Located at: Shore Lodge, 501 W Lake St, McCall
7. Spud’s Waterfront Grill – Sandpoint
Sandpoint’s downtown waterfront comes alive at Spud’s, where Lake Pend Oreille views and hearty food create the perfect combination.
This local favorite has been feeding hungry diners for years with reliable quality and friendly service.
Generous portions of American classics like burgers, ribs, and salads keep bellies full and smiles wide.
Outdoor seating puts you right in the action during summer months when the lakefront buzzes with activity.
Cold beverages and warm hospitality make every visit feel like coming home.
My neighbor swears by their fish and chips, claiming they’re the best in northern Idaho.
Families appreciate the casual atmosphere where everyone feels welcome.
You’ll find it at: 102 N 1st Ave, Sandpoint
8. Pearl’s On The Lake – Hope
Tucked away at Beyond Hope Resort, Pearl’s On The Lake offers seasonal dining that captures the essence of Idaho summers.
Lake Pend Oreille laps at the shore just steps from your table, creating an intimate connection with nature.
Simple preparations let quality ingredients shine in dishes that celebrate regional flavors and traditions.
Fresh salads, grilled meats, and local catches appear on a menu that changes with availability.
The focus stays on doing a few things really well rather than trying to be everything.
Small-town charm permeates every aspect of the experience, from friendly greetings to unhurried service.
Hope itself is a quiet gem along the lake’s eastern shore.
Pearl’s captures that peaceful spirit perfectly, offering refuge from busier tourist spots.
Located at: Hope, Beyond Hope Resort, Lake Pend Oreille
9. Elkins Resort On Priest Lake – Nordman
North Idaho’s rugged beauty reaches its peak at Priest Lake, and Elkins Resort sits right on its stunning shores.
This classic lodge restaurant has been welcoming guests for generations with hearty meals and genuine hospitality.
Home-style cooking dominates the menu, with comfort foods that satisfy after long days exploring the outdoors.
Breakfast spreads fuel morning adventures while dinner offerings provide well-earned rewards.
The portions are generous, the flavors are honest, and the atmosphere is wonderfully unpretentious.
Priest Lake remains one of Idaho’s most pristine waters, less crowded than its southern cousins.
Watching the sun set over the lake from Elkins’ dining room never gets old.
Found at: Priest Lake, Elkins Resort
10. Boathouse Restaurant – Hayden Lake
Tucked right on the shore of Hayden Lake, the Boathouse Restaurant offers lakeside dining where you can watch boats drift by while you enjoy burgers, flatbreads, or a refreshing drinks.
It feels like summer on a plate – especially on a lakeside deck at sunset.
On weekends during boating season, live music adds to the laid‑back atmosphere, making it a go‑to for dinner or drinks after a day on the water.
It’s a relaxed, friendly spot that fits perfectly into your waterfront road‑trip list.
I remember sitting out on the deck one evening, sipping a cold beer while the sun dipped behind the mountains.
It was pure Idaho magic.
You can find it at: 3830 E Hayden Lake Rd, Hayden Lake
11. Riverfront Restaurant – Island Park
Henry’s Fork of the Snake River rushes past Angler’s Lodge, creating the perfect soundtrack for meals at Riverfront Restaurant.
Island Park’s wild beauty surrounds this dining spot, where mountains meet water in spectacular fashion.
Western comfort food fills the menu with steaks, trout, and other regional favorites done right.
The kitchen understands that hungry outdoor enthusiasts need substantial portions and satisfying flavors.
Yellowstone National Park sits just up the road, making this a convenient stop for park visitors.
The restaurant captures that gateway town spirit where adventure and relaxation meet.
River sounds and mountain air complete an experience that feels quintessentially Idaho.
Located at: Angler’s Lodge & Riverfront Restaurant, Henry’s Fork of the Snake River, Island Park