Everyone loves having dinner with a view in Illinois – especially on the water. There’s something so peaceful about being close to the water, watching boats and birds go by while you eat. In the Prairie State, there are some fantastic eateries sitting right along the river, giving guests unparalleled water views. Here is a list we have compiled of some of the waterfront dining in Illinois.

1. Rivers Restaurant, Chicago
Rivers Restaurant, South Wacker Drive, Chicago, IL, USA
Rivers Restaurant/Facebook
The location is phenomenal, as you are in the lobby of the Mercantile Building. On top of that, you get a great view of the Chicago River while enjoying modern American cuisine. For more information, visit the Rivers Restaurant website.
2. 3rd Chute Bar and Grill, Grafton
3
3rd Chute Bar & Grill, 220 W Main St, Grafton, IL 62037, USA
management/TripAdvisor
Sitting just off the Illinois River, 3rd Chute Bar and Grill will give you incredible water views. This restaurant has two bars outside and serves some great Cajun food, including frog legs. This unique place is fun for people of all ages! For more information, visit 3rd Chute's Facebook page.
3. E-Town River Restaurant, Elizabethtown
E'Town River Restaurant, 100 Front St, Elizabethtown, IL 62931, USA
E-Town River Restaurant/Facebook
This seasonal eatery is all about fresh fish, sourced right from the Ohio River. The restaurant sources the fish itself, sometimes with its own lines, then cleans and cooks it for some of the freshest fish you'll ever have. It also offers pond-raised fresh fish. As one of the seasonal Illinois waterfront restaurants, you'll have to call ahead or check its Facebook page for hours, open dates, and other information.

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4. Riverview Diner, Montgomery
Riverview Diner, 1420 Southeast River Road, Montgomery, IL, USA
Riverview Diner, 1420 SE River Rd, Montgomery, IL 60538, USA
Photo Courtesy: Riverview Diner
Riverview Diner is a great little restaurant serving great food along the Fox River, in (of course) the Fox Valley. The place has won the Best of American Cuisine Award, arguably making it one of the best restaurants in Illinois! Riverview Diner has an extensive menu and breakfast is served, all day. What could be better? Check out the restaurant's website for its hours, to see its menu, or for additional information.
5. Evandy's Boatel, Naples
Evandy's Boatel, 100 Bob Michael Street, Naples, IL, USA
Charlie Franklin/Google
This restaurant is right on the Illinois River and is a truly phenomenal place to catch a sunset. Order a Dockside Favorite like the blackened catfish, catfish fritters, or Evandy's crab cakes while you take in the water views. You'll find all the information you need at Evandy's Boatel's Facebook page.
6. Kuchie's on the Water, Creve Coeur
Kuchie's on the Water, 579 Wesley Road, Creve Coeur, IL, USA
Kuchie's on the Water/Facebook
This riverfront restaurant has a casual atmosphere, complete with a lovely patio and is home to the Shipwreck Bloody Mary. They even have a monthly shake special which you should definitely order along with some incredibly tasty food. You'll find a whole lot of additional information at Kuchie's on the Water's Facebook page.

What are some other places you consider to be the best riverfront restaurants in Illinois? Please tell us in the comments comment!

Want to see other Illinois restaurants with awesome views? Check out this list.

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More to Explore

Riverfront Restaurants In Illinois

Melissa Mahoney | February 19, 2021

What are some of the best places for outdoor dining in Illinois?

It’s usually just the warmer months when we can enjoy outdoor dining in the Prairie State. But many restaurants have added heated igloos to their patios so guests can enjoy eating outdoors any time of year. For outdoor summer dining, you can peruse our list in this previous article: 8 Outdoor Restaurants In Illinois You’ll Want To Visit Before Summer’s End. If you want to dine in an igloo in the colder months, try Chicago’s City Winery or The Ivy in Wheaton.

What are some of the most beautiful restaurants in Illinois?

One of the most beautifully unique restaurants is housed in a historic Georgian mansion. Mesón Sabika is so pretty that weddings are often held here; it sits on four acres close to downtown Naperville. Then there’s Lino’s, which will transport you to Italy with its incredible decor once you step inside. You wouldn’t think a pizzeria could be one of the most beautiful restaurants in the state, but we assure you, it is!

What are the best waterfront restaurants in Illinois?

If you enjoy dinner with a view in Illinois, there's nothing better than waterfront dining. Here are some of the best waterfront restaurants in Illinois. With gorgeous views of Lake Decatur, the Beach House Restaurant is a must-visit! Enjoy a tasty dish in a relaxed atmosphere here as you look out on the water. Ryan’s Pier has lovely views of the Kankakee River, so order a drink on the patio and take it all in! These choices represent some of the best waterfront dining in Illinois.

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