13 Must-Visit Riverside Restaurants In Texas With Breathtaking Views

Imagine enjoying a perfectly cooked meal while watching the sun dip below the horizon, casting golden light across a shimmering river.

Texas offers some of the best riverside dining experiences in the country, where amazing food meets unforgettable scenery.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to enjoy a relaxing evening by the water, these riverside restaurants deliver views that will take your breath away.

1. The Oasis On Lake Travis

Perched high above the water, this legendary spot has earned its title as the Sunset Capital of Texas for good reason.

The restaurant sits at 6550 Comanche Trail, Austin, TX 78732.

I love how the multi-level decks give everyone a front-row seat to nature’s nightly show.

The Tex-Mex menu features classics like sizzling fajitas and fresh guacamole made tableside.

Families gather here to celebrate birthdays and anniversaries while soaking in panoramic lake views.

The atmosphere feels festive yet relaxed, perfect for both casual dinners and special events.

Arrive early to snag a prime spot on the deck.

The 450-foot elevation provides unobstructed views that stretch for miles across Lake Travis.

You’ll understand why thousands of visitors return year after year to witness the spectacular sunsets from this iconic location.

2. Quince Riverside

Floor-to-ceiling windows frame the Trinity River like a living painting at this modern American eatery. You’ll find it at 1701 River Run suite 181, Fort Worth, TX 76107.

The sleek interior design complements the natural beauty outside without competing for your attention.

Chefs here craft seasonal dishes using locally sourced ingredients that change with what’s fresh and available.

I appreciate how the menu balances creativity with comfort, offering everything from perfectly seared steaks to innovative seafood preparations.

The wine list features carefully selected bottles that pair beautifully with each dish.

Request a window table when making your reservation.

The river views create a calming backdrop that makes every meal feel special.

Service remains attentive without being intrusive, allowing you to savor both the food and the scenery at your own pace.

3. Gristmill River Restaurant & Bar

History comes alive in this converted cotton gin that dates back to the 1870s. Located at 1287 Gruene Rd, New Braunfels, TX 78130, the building’s original stone walls and wooden beams tell stories of Texas’s agricultural past. Outdoor seating along the Guadalupe River lets you dine surrounded by towering cypress trees and rushing water.

The menu celebrates Texas comfort food with generous portions of burgers, ribs, and chicken-fried steak.

I recommend trying their famous onion rings, which arrive hot and crispy at your table.

Prices stay reasonable despite the prime riverside location and historic setting.

Weekends get busy, so plan accordingly.

The rustic atmosphere feels authentic rather than manufactured.

You might spot kayakers floating past while you enjoy your meal, adding to the laid-back Hill Country vibe that makes this spot so memorable.

4. Old Main Cafe

Casual dining meets natural beauty at this welcoming spot where locals and tourists mingle happily.

Breakfast and lunch menus feature generous portions that fuel your day of Texas adventures.

The patio seating puts you within earshot of flowing water, creating a peaceful soundtrack to your meal.

Homestyle cooking dominates the menu, with fluffy pancakes, hearty omelets, and satisfying sandwiches.

I find the prices incredibly fair for the quality and portion sizes you receive.

The staff treats everyone like family, remembering regular customers and making first-timers feel welcome.

Morning visits reward you with cooler temperatures and quieter crowds.

Birds flit among riverside vegetation while you sip your coffee.

The unpretentious atmosphere encourages you to relax and take your time, making it a refreshing alternative to more formal dining establishments along Texas waterways.

5. Waterfront Grill

Fresh seafood takes center stage at this nautical-themed restaurant where the catch of the day arrives daily.

Grilled fish, shrimp platters, and oyster selections dominate the menu alongside landlubber options for less adventurous eaters.

The blue and white color scheme echoes the water views visible from every table.

I appreciate how the kitchen prepares seafood simply, allowing natural flavors to shine through.

Lemon butter sauces and light seasonings enhance rather than overwhelm the fresh ingredients.

The casual dress code means you can arrive straight from a day on the water without feeling underdressed.

Happy hour specials make weekday visits particularly appealing.

The river breeze provides natural air conditioning on warm Texas evenings.

Watching boats cruise past while cracking into perfectly steamed crab legs creates memories that extend far beyond just another restaurant meal.

6. Sunset Terrace

Romance fills the air at this upscale establishment designed for special occasions and memorable evenings.

Soft lighting and elegant table settings create an intimate atmosphere that feels worlds away from everyday life.

The terrace extends out over the water, making you feel like you’re dining on a floating platform.

Contemporary American cuisine with international influences keeps the menu interesting and sophisticated. I’m impressed by the chef’s attention to presentation, with each plate arriving as a work of art.

The sommelier can guide you through an extensive wine collection featuring both familiar favorites and exciting discoveries.

Reservations are essential, especially for weekend dinners.

Live music on select evenings adds another layer of ambiance.

As darkness falls and stars emerge overhead, the riverside setting transforms into something truly magical that justifies the premium prices and dress code expectations.

7. Riverside BBQ & Grill

Authentic Texas barbecue smoke wafts through the air at this laid-back joint where meat is king.

Brisket, ribs, and sausage come straight from massive smokers that work around the clock.

Picnic tables on the riverside deck encourage family-style dining and sharing among groups.

The meat speaks for itself with perfect smoke rings and tender texture that falls off the bone.

Traditional sides like coleslaw, beans, and potato salad round out the plates.

I love how the casual setting removes any pretense, letting the quality of the barbecue do all the talking.

Lunch crowds can be intense, so timing matters.

The combination of world-class barbecue and waterfront views feels uniquely Texan.

You might leave smelling like smoke, but the flavor memories will last much longer than the scent on your clothes.

8. Roosters breakfast and mimosas

Margaritas flow freely at this lively Mexican restaurant where the party atmosphere starts early and runs late. Colorful decorations and upbeat music create energy that matches the festive menu.

The patio wraps around the building, offering multiple vantage points for watching the creek flow past.

Sizzling fajitas arrive at tables with theatrical flair and aromatic clouds of steam.

I recommend the fish tacos, which feature fresh ingredients and zesty salsas.

Portion sizes lean generous, often providing leftovers for tomorrow’s lunch. The bar mixes strong drinks that don’t skimp on quality tequila.

Groups of friends gather here for celebrations and casual get-togethers.

The relaxed vibe welcomes families during early evening hours.

As the sun sets, the cantina transforms into a more adult-oriented scene with live music and dancing under the stars beside the water.

9. Willow Bend Bistro

European sophistication meets Texas hospitality at this charming bistro tucked along a quiet bend in the river.

White tablecloths and fresh flowers create elegance without stuffiness.

The shaded patio features graceful willow trees that give the restaurant its name and provide natural cooling on hot afternoons.

French-inspired cuisine dominates the menu with dishes like coq au vin and beef bourguignon.

I appreciate the chef’s commitment to classic techniques while incorporating local Texas ingredients.

The bread basket arrives warm and house-made, perfect for soaking up rich sauces.

Weekend brunch service draws crowds seeking mimosas and eggs Benedict.

The quieter weekday lunches offer a peaceful escape from busy schedules.

Watching the willows sway in the breeze while savoring carefully prepared food creates a dining experience that feels both refined and relaxing.

10. The Paddlewheel

Nostalgia for riverboat days fills this whimsical spot designed to evoke Mississippi steamboat charm. Nautical brass fixtures and dark wood paneling transport you to another era.

Large windows ensure modern diners don’t miss the actual river views while surrounded by historical atmosphere.

Southern comfort food rules the menu with fried chicken, catfish, and hush puppies leading the charge.

I find the portions hearty and satisfying without being overwhelming.

The sweet tea flows freely, refilled without asking. Desserts lean traditional with pecan pie and bread pudding earning regular praise.

Families appreciate the kid-friendly menu and relaxed service style.

The restaurant embraces its theme without becoming cartoonish or overdone.

You’ll leave with a full stomach and perhaps a newfound appreciation for the rivers that shaped Texas commerce and culture throughout history.

11. Blue Heron Tavern

Bird watchers bring binoculars to this nature-focused eatery where wildlife viewing rivals the food as an attraction.

The namesake blue herons frequently fish in the shallows visible from the dining room.

Educational displays identify local bird species and explain the ecosystem surrounding the restaurant.

The menu emphasizes healthy options with lots of salads, grilled proteins, and fresh vegetables.

I appreciate how the kitchen accommodates dietary restrictions without making substitutions feel like compromises.

Smoothies and fresh juices complement the wellness-oriented approach to dining.

Morning visits offer the best chances for spotting active wildlife.

The quiet atmosphere attracts readers and solo diners seeking peaceful meals.

Photography enthusiasts find endless subjects between the birds, flowing water, and changing light conditions throughout the day along this scenic stretch of river.

12. Rapids Lodge and Restaurant

The sound of rushing water provides constant background music at this uniquely positioned eatery beside actual river rapids.

The energy of moving water creates excitement that matches the lively restaurant atmosphere.

Outdoor seating puts you close enough to feel the occasional spray on particularly breezy days.

American classics fill the menu with burgers, steaks, and pasta dishes prepared well without unnecessary complications.

I enjoy how the straightforward food lets the dramatic setting remain the star attraction. Prices stay moderate, making it accessible for families and casual diners seeking adventure with their meal.

Kayakers and rafters often stop here during river trips.

The restaurant welcomes wet guests with designated areas for dripping gear.

Watching others navigate the rapids while you dine safely on shore provides entertainment that no television screen could match, especially during peak water flow seasons.

13. Riverstone Grille

Contemporary architecture featuring walls of glass maximizes every possible river view at this modern establishment.

The building seems to float above the water on its foundation of native stone. Interior design stays minimal and clean, ensuring nothing distracts from the natural scenery outside.

Fusion cuisine blends influences from multiple cultures into creative dishes that surprise and delight. I’m consistently impressed by unexpected flavor combinations that somehow work perfectly together.

The chef clearly enjoys pushing boundaries while maintaining accessibility for less adventurous palates.

Presentation remains Instagram-worthy without sacrificing substance.

The wine and cocktail program matches the food’s sophistication level. Sunset reservations book weeks in advance during peak seasons.

Though prices run higher than casual spots, the overall experience justifies the investment for those seeking cutting-edge cuisine paired with spectacular natural beauty along the Texas riverside.