9 Must-Visit Riverside Restaurants In Texas With Breathtaking Views
Texas offers some of the most stunning waterside dining experiences in the country. From lakeside terraces to riverfront patios, the Lone Star State combines delicious food with unforgettable natural beauty. These nine riverside restaurants showcase the best of Texas cuisine while treating diners to spectacular water views that make any meal special.
1. The Oasis on Lake Travis – Austin’s Sunset Paradise
Perched on a cliff 450 feet above Lake Travis, The Oasis earns its nickname as the “Sunset Capital of Texas.” The multi-tiered decks provide unmatched panoramic views that transform dramatically as day turns to evening.
Tex-Mex favorites and American classics complement the stunning scenery. Order the famous fajitas and time your visit for sunset – the restaurant even rings a bell when the sun dips below the horizon.
2. PumpHouse Riverside Restaurant – Victorian Industrial Charm
History meets culinary excellence inside this 1909 water pumping station turned restaurant. Massive brick walls and original industrial equipment create a unique atmosphere alongside the peaceful Guadalupe River.
The seasonal menu features locally-sourced ingredients in elevated American dishes. Grab a seat on the outdoor deck where the river’s gentle flow provides a soothing backdrop to specialties like pecan-crusted catfish.
3. Gristmill River Restaurant – Historic Gruene Dining
Cotton gin ruins from the 1870s house this rustic restaurant nestled beneath towering oak trees along the Guadalupe River. Weathered wood, stone walls, and antique farm equipment create an authentic Hill Country atmosphere.
Famous for chicken-fried steak and homemade bread, Gristmill offers hearty portions of Texas comfort food. After your meal, stroll to nearby Gruene Hall, Texas’ oldest dance hall, for live music and cold beverages.
4. Quince – Fort Worth’s Riverside Elegance
Modern sophistication meets natural beauty at this upscale Trinity River restaurant. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame stunning river views, while the sleek interior features contemporary art and ambient lighting.
The chef crafts innovative American cuisine with global influences. Try the signature pan-seared scallops with citrus beurre blanc. Reserve a table on the glass-enclosed patio where you’ll feel suspended above the water.
5. Riverside Grille – Neches River Culinary Haven
A local favorite in Beaumont, this hidden gem sits directly on the banks of the mighty Neches River. The spacious covered deck extends over the water, offering unobstructed views of passing ships and wildlife.
Seafood dominates the menu with Gulf Coast specialties like blackened redfish. Weekend brunches feature live jazz and build-your-own Bloody Mary bars. Arrive early to watch river dolphins that occasionally swim near the restaurant.
6. County Line on the Lake – Barbecue Paradise
Housed in an old lodge on Lake Austin, this barbecue institution has been smoking meats to perfection since 1975. The massive wooden deck hovers just above the water’s surface, providing an intimate connection to the lake.
Legendary beef ribs and brisket arrive on butcher paper-lined trays. Watch turtles swim beneath your table through gaps in the deck boards. Arrive by boat – the restaurant maintains its own dock for hungry boaters.
7. Jacoby’s Restaurant & Mercantile – Ranch-to-River Dining
Perched on a bluff above the Colorado River, this East Austin gem brings ranch heritage to riverside dining. The family raises the beef served here on their own ranch, embodying true farm-to-table philosophy.
The charming patio features repurposed farm equipment and twinkling lights. Southern comfort dishes like chicken-fried steak shine alongside craft cocktails. Stay for dessert – the buttermilk pie recipe comes from Grandma Jacoby herself.
8. Hula Hut – Tropical Lakeside Escape
“Mexonesian” cuisine – a playful fusion of Tex-Mex and Hawaiian flavors – awaits at this Lake Austin institution. Thatched roofs, bamboo accents, and tiki torches create a tropical island atmosphere in the heart of Texas.
The Polynesian-inspired deck, known as the “Dock,” extends directly over the water. Signature dishes include mango-poblano chile rellenos and coconut fried shrimp. Weekend water-taxi service brings boaters directly to the restaurant’s private dock.
9. The Republic of Texas Restaurant – San Antonio, TX
Perched along San Antonio’s famous River Walk, The Republic of Texas Restaurant combines Texan heritage with modern culinary flair. The stone-walled patio extends right to the water’s edge, where colorful umbrellas provide shade while you watch tourist boats glide by.
The menu showcases Texas-sized portions of steaks, seafood, and Southwestern specialties. Try their famous smoked brisket tacos or chile-rubbed ribeye for an authentic taste of Texas.
