Best Waterfront Dining Spots in Rhode Island

Though Rhode Island is the smallest state in the United States, its coastal appeal and amazing cuisine really pack a force.  Rhode Island, sometimes known as the Ocean State, has more than 400 miles of breathtaking coastline, which makes it ideal for seafood enthusiasts and everyone else searching for a unique dinner beside the sea.  This guide to the best waterfront restaurants in Rhode Island will enable you to find remarkable dining experiences with a view, whether your visit is for the day or you are organizing a coastal road trip.

1. The Mooring Seafood Kitchen & Bar in Newport, RI

Eating at The Mooring, on Newport Harbor's historic waterfront, completes a visit to Newport.  Renowned for its sophisticated yet laid-back vibe, this restaurant is a mainstay of Rhode Island's eating scene.  While you watch the sailboats float by, savor locally fresh seafood including oysters, scallops, and lobster.  Impressive is the wine list, and the outdoor patio presents some of the best views of sunset in town.

Try New England clam chowder, the fresh-caught swordfish, or Bag of Doughnuts (lobster, crab & shrimp fritters).

2. Coast Guard House, Rhode Island Narragansett

One of the most famous restaurants in Rhode Island, The Coast Guard House is perched dramatically on the rocks with view of Narragansett Bay.  Constructed from a former Coast Guard station, this iconic site provides panoramic views of the ocean and a varied menu comprising creative small dishes, steaks, and seafood.

 Local favorites are raw bar, seared tuna, and the trademark clam cakes.

3. The Landing— Rhode Island, Newport

The Landing, on Bowen's Wharf, provides indoor and outdoor seating with breathtaking views of the harbor.  All summer long, this energetic location offers fresh seafood, cold beverages, and live music.  For laid-back dinner with a vibrant atmosphere, this is a top choice.

Try fish tacos, clam chowder, the lobster roll topped with garlic butter.

4. South Kingstown, RI Matunuck Oyster Bar

Matunuck Oyster Bar ought to be top on your list for a real farm-to- table experience.  The oysters are gathered just a few feet from your dining area.  Growing its own herbs and vegetables, the restaurant guarantees that every meal is as fresh as it should be.

Start with the oyster sampler and team it with their pan-seared scallops or lobster ravioli.

5. Blu on the Water – RI East Greenwich

Blu on the Water is a summer destination with live entertainment, frozen cocktails, and laid-back waterfront dining set on the Greenwich Bay Marina.  The menu calls for pasta, sushi, and several seafood dishes.

Try tuna nachos, prawn scampi or grilled lobster cheese.

6. Hemenway's - Rhode Island, Providence

Though not directly on the ocean, Hemenway's sits by the Providence River provide beautiful views of the city's waterway.  Reputed for great service and a sophisticated atmosphere, this is a top-tier seafood restaurant.

 Try the shellfish platter, baked stuffed lobster, and trademark seafood risotto.

7. Champlin's Seafood Galilee, Rhode Island

Visit Champlin's Seafood at the Galilee fishing port if you're looking for something somewhat more laid-back but equally great.  Eat on the deck, see fishing boats arrive, and savor some of the freshest catches right here in this vintage fish shack.

 Try fried clam bellies, stuffies—stuffed quahogs—and their well-known lobster roll.

8: East Greenwich, RI Finn's Harborside

Finn's Harborside, which is situated in the picturesque Greenwich Cove, is a laid-back venue well-known for its large quantities, friendly vibe, and amazing views.  Both residents and visitors love this for weekends with live music and a small outdoor deck.

Try baked stuffed shrimp, red chowder clam cakes, lobster mac and cheese.

9: The Lobster Pot – Bristol, RI

Serving customers for more than 90 years, The Lobster Pot in Bristol offers unparalleled views of Narragansett Bay together with a traditional New England seafood cuisine.  It's perfect for family dinners and evening romance.

Try baked stuffed lobster, seafood casserole, littlenecks in Portuguese style.

10: Boat House in Tiverton, RI

Not least of all, Boat House provides a more peaceful environment, tucked away on Mt. Hope Bay in a quiet cove.  The food is sophisticated and comforting; the décor is coastal chic; the attitudes are calm.

Try Crispy point Judith calamari, lobster corn chowder, grilled Atlantic salmon.

Why Rhode Island's Waterfront Dining Is So Unique

Regarding Rhode Island restaurants, the combination of waterfront views, fresh local seafood, and maritime history produces an unparalleled dining experience.  Many of these businesses provide a real taste of the area by sourcing foods straight from nearby farms and fishermen.

Small Rhode Island means you're never far from the sea, and its cuisine captures the coastal culture of the state.  There is something for every budget and taste from upscale seafood restaurants in Newport to laid-back clam shacks in South County.

Match Your Trip to Other Northeastern Escapes

If you intend to tour New England, think about including weekend trips to Southern Vermont.  Following seaside dining in Rhode Island, Vermont's peaceful, wooded beauty offers the ideal counterpoint.  In a few hours' drive, you can get from fresh oysters on the coast to maple syrup and mountain hikes.

Combining Rhode Island's restaurants with the serene beauty of Southern Vermont weekend getaways provides a well-rounded vacation—urban energy and ocean breezes followed by serene settings and comfortable inns.

Last thoughts
Discovering the top waterfront restaurants in Rhode Island is an amazing trip regardless of your location or just visiting status.  From sophisticated coastal dining to rustic seafood shacks, these locations provide an experience that nourishes your soul as much as your stomach.

 So the next time you're searching for a meal with a view, avoid the typical locations and find the enchantment of Rhode Island's waterfront dining scene.  You will be thanked by your taste receptors as well as by your Instagram feed.