There’s nothing as satisfying as a good meal, except maybe a good meal in a great location. There’s tons of amazing restaurants located to beautiful bodies of water in Northern California. Here are a few of our favorites.
1. Little River Inn, 7901 N Hwy 1, Little River
Described as a must see for anyone traveling through Mendocino, the Little River Inn is a wonderful chowder house and is also famous for its Bloody Mary. Even if you don't stay overnight at this quaint and rustic location, you definitely need to stop in for a drink or lunch and look out over the Pacific Ocean.
2. The Fresh Ketch, 2435 Venice Dr E, South Lake Tahoe
Located in the Tahoe Keys Marina, The Fresh Ketch puts you right at eye level with the boats coming and going. There are many other noteworthy Tahoe waterfront restaurants, including Christy Hill, Sunnyside, The Boathouse, and Riva Grill.
3. The Crescent City Crab Shack, 160 Anchor Way, Crescent City
You can't get any closer to the waterfront than this! Order from their ready to eat menu and munch on fresh seafood as you listen to sea lions barking down at the pier, or take some to go. It's described by fans as "as local and as fresh as you can get!"
4. View 202, 202 Hemstead, Redding
This shady outdoor dining experience along the Sacramento River is a hands down favorite for locals and visitors to the area. It's a great place for drinks and appetizers as well as a full entree if you are hungry.
5. The Plumas Pines Resort, 3000 Almanor Dr W, Almanor
Vacations to Lake Alamanor are only complete when you stop in at The Plumas Pines Resort for ribs or halibut out on their deck, which boasts incredible views and a friendly atmosphere.
6. Cafe Waterfront, 102 F St,Eureka
This list of waterfront restaurants would be incomplete without mentioning Cafe Waterfront itself! Old fashioned charm and a rustic, nautical mural make this a delightful dining experience.
7. Moe’s Original Bar B Que, 120 Grove Street, Tahoe City
For a fun and casual lakeside dining experience, head on down to Moe's. They are known for their tender meat, vegetarian options, great sauce, and as a great place to get a beer in the sun next to the lake.
8. The Virgin Sturgeon, 1577 Garden Hwy, Sacramento
Located right on the banks of the Sacramento River just north of the city, you'll see plenty of recreational boaters passing by if you visit in the summer. The atmosphere is perfect and patrons love sitting at the bar and watching the sunset.
9. Scotty’s Landing, 12609 River Rd, Chico
Folks love this stretch of the river for floating and relaxing away from the city, and Scotty's Landing is a great place to end you day in the sun. The shady, friendly ambiance is delightful and you'll definitely enjoy relaxing by the river.
10. The CookHouse At Bridge Bay Resort, 10300 Bridge Bay Rd, Redding
Overlooking the fingers of Shasta Lake, the simple interior decor of the restaurant lets the view do all the talking.
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