11 Breathtaking Places Around the World Where You Can Dine With a View
Dining becomes an entirely different experience when paired with an unforgettable view. Whether it is overlooking calm waters or gazing at a skyline, the scenery can turn an ordinary meal into something remarkable. Across the globe, there are locations where both the food and the atmosphere leave a lasting impression. Travelers and locals alike seek out these special places for moments that linger in memory. Explore the following destinations to see which ones call to you.
This post may contain affiliate links, which helps keep this content free. Please read our disclosure for more info.
Santorini Clifftop Restaurants, Greece
Santorini is famous for its whitewashed buildings and deep blue waters, making it a dream setting for a meal. Restaurants perched along the caldera offer unmatched views of the Aegean Sea, especially during sunset. Fresh seafood and traditional Greek dishes add to the appeal. Dining here feels like being part of the island’s charm.
Many of these spots have open-air terraces where you can enjoy the warm breeze. Popular options include grilled octopus, Greek salads, and moussaka. Reservations are recommended during peak travel months. The combination of flavors and scenery keeps visitors returning year after year.
Marina Bay Sands SkyPark, Singapore
Located atop one of Singapore’s most recognizable hotels, the SkyPark offers panoramic city views. Restaurants here overlook the skyline, the Gardens by the Bay, and the busy Marina Bay waterfront. The modern Asian and international menus match the sophistication of the setting. Night views are especially dazzling as the city lights up.
It is a popular place for both tourists and locals to celebrate special occasions. Many visitors plan their meal to coincide with the evening light and water show. The rooftop breeze adds a refreshing touch to the experience. Dining here is as much about the view as it is about the food.
Lake Como Lakeside Dining, Italy
Lake Como is surrounded by charming villages and lush hillsides, making it a peaceful place to enjoy a meal. Restaurants along the water serve fresh fish, pasta, and regional wines. Gentle waves and passing boats add to the relaxing atmosphere. Bellagio and Varenna are popular towns for dining by the lake.
Terraces often stretch right to the edge of the water, offering uninterrupted views. Sunset meals are especially beautiful as the light reflects off the lake. Many menus feature dishes made with locally grown herbs and produce. This setting is perfect for those looking for a quiet, scenic escape.
Sydney Harbour Views, Australia
Sydney’s waterfront dining scene offers incredible views of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge. Many restaurants in Circular Quay and The Rocks have outdoor seating right by the water. Fresh seafood is a highlight, from oysters to barramundi. The area is lively and full of energy, making it a favorite for both visitors and residents.
Evening dining comes with the added beauty of the city lights reflecting on the water. Some spots offer live music to complement the setting. Ferries and sailboats create a constant yet peaceful backdrop. It is an ideal location for soaking up the city’s coastal charm.
Table Mountain Views, Cape Town, South Africa
Restaurants facing Table Mountain offer one of the most striking natural views in the world. The mountain’s flat top rises dramatically over the city, changing colors as the day goes on. Outdoor terraces let you enjoy South African dishes while taking in the scenery. The view is just as captivating at night with the city lights below.
Menus often include local favorites like bobotie or freshly grilled seafood. The mild weather allows for comfortable al fresco dining most of the year. Wine from nearby Stellenbosch and Franschhoek pairs perfectly with the setting. Many diners time their meals for the golden hour before sunset.
Amalfi Coast Terraces, Italy
The Amalfi Coast is lined with cliffside villages that seem to hang over the sea. Restaurants here have terraces that open directly to views of the Mediterranean. Lemon groves, colorful houses, and the deep blue water complete the scene. The sound of waves below makes it even more memorable.
Seafood pasta, fresh salads, and limoncello are popular menu choices. The coast’s winding roads mean every stop feels like a hidden treasure. Many travelers spend the entire afternoon enjoying a slow meal here. The views alone are enough to make the trip worthwhile.
Dubai Marina Waterfront, United Arab Emirates
Dubai Marina is a modern waterfront filled with sleek buildings and luxury yachts. Restaurants line the promenade, offering views of the water and the glittering skyline. Middle Eastern and global dishes fill the menus. The warm evening air makes outdoor dining especially inviting.
This area comes alive at night when the lights reflect off the water. Many restaurants have open-air seating with shaded areas for daytime meals. Visitors can enjoy watching boats pass by as they eat. It is one of Dubai’s most scenic dining districts.
Sant Elm Seaside Dining, Mallorca, Spain
Sant Elm is a small coastal village known for its peaceful setting and clear waters. Restaurants along the promenade offer views of the nearby Sa Dragonera island. Freshly caught fish is a highlight on most menus. The calm waves make it an ideal spot for a relaxing meal.
Sunset views are particularly beautiful here, with warm colors reflecting off the water. Many visitors enjoy pairing their meal with a glass of local wine. The village’s quiet charm makes it feel far removed from busier tourist areas. It is a perfect choice for slow, unhurried dining.
Queenstown Lakeside Dining, New Zealand
Queenstown sits beside Lake Wakatipu and is surrounded by dramatic mountain ranges. Lakeside restaurants here combine fresh New Zealand produce with breathtaking scenery. Guests can watch the light change over the water as they eat. The relaxed atmosphere suits the region’s outdoor lifestyle.
Menus often feature lamb, seafood, and locally produced wine. Outdoor decks are popular year-round, with heaters available in cooler months. The lake’s stillness contrasts beautifully with the towering peaks. Many visitors consider it a highlight of their trip.
Positano Beachfront Dining, Italy
Positano’s beachfront restaurants let you enjoy Italian cuisine with your toes almost touching the sand. The pastel-colored buildings behind and the shimmering sea ahead create a postcard-perfect view. Fresh seafood and handmade pasta are served alongside fine wines. The setting is lively yet intimate.
Evenings bring soft lighting and the sound of the waves. Many tables are positioned to take in the full sweep of the bay. Visitors often linger long after the meal to enjoy the atmosphere. It is one of the most photographed dining spots in the world.
Banff Mountain View Dining, Canada
Banff’s restaurants with mountain views give diners a front-row seat to the Canadian Rockies. Tall peaks, dense forests, and open skies create a stunning natural backdrop. Seasonal menus often feature ingredients from the region. Outdoor patios make the most of the scenery.
Wildlife sightings are possible, adding to the excitement. In winter, snow-covered mountains add a magical touch to the view. Warm drinks and hearty dishes are popular during colder months. It is an experience that blends great food with nature’s beauty.
This article originally appeared on Avocadu.