Have you ever wanted to enjoy a relaxing dinner against the waterfront in Arizona? While Arizona might not be known for its water attractions, there are plenty of fun ways to enjoy dinner with a view! The diversity spans across lakes, ponds and canals with food that is just as exciting. If you are ready for a new bucket list of restaurants, this is it right here. These are the must see waterfront restaurants in all of Arizona.
Location: 14011 N Bush Hwy #2, Mesa, Arizona
Located near breathtaking views of beautiful Saguaro Lake, ShipRock Restaurant is a must see for a waterfront restaurant in Arizona. You can opt for dinner until 7pm on Friday and Saturday nights with an amazing plate of ribs or fish fry. If you can’t make it for dinner, you can stop by seven days a week for breakfast or lunch. With space for 130 guests on the outdoor patio alone, this is definitely the place to be.
In addition to the great food, you can spend a day on the water too. Saguaro Lake has boats and jetskis to rent, areas to swim or dinner cruises to book. Come for the food and stay for the view.
Location: English Village St. #304, Lake Havasu City, Arizona
Locally owned and family operated, Papa Leone’s has been a staple in the Lake Havasu community for over 30 years. The ingredients are fresh and the pizza is out of this world. The pizza dough is made daily and can even be delivered right to your boat!
Now if you wish to stay ashore, that is great. The views from the restaurant are unlike any other! Not only do you get to enjoy Lake Havasu, but the London Bridge is also in full view. Grab a pizza, a salad, a bottle of wine and one of the best views the city has to offer.
Location: 10970 W, Peninsula Blvd, Peoria, Arizona
What gets any better than casual and dog-friendly? Add Scorpion Bay Grill to your list of waterfront restaurants that not only have a view, but have a great atmosphere. In fact, it is a 360 degree view of water, mountains and other desert landscapes.
The menu really can’t be beat either. It is packed with favorites like mountains of onion rings, walleye sandwiches, salads, flatbreads and more. Don’t forget to wash it down with a cocktail or cold beverage.
4. El Encanto
Location: 6248 E. Cave Creek Rd., Cave Creek, Arizona
Head to Cave Creek for another restaurant with a waterfront view, except this time the water is a little smaller than the rest. Since 1989, The original El Encanto has not only offered sights, sounds and the smell of Mexico, it also has a waterfront view. Centrally located in the restaurant is a pond that brings in local wildlife next to your authentic Mexican meal.
Enter the restaurant through a beautiful archway that leads you to old brick walkways, wrought-iron gates and beautiful furnishings. Everything here screams authentic Mexican food and culture.
Location: 301 L’Auberge Lane, Sedona, Arizona
For a fine dining experience near water, head to Sedona and Cress on Oak Creek. The culinary team has elevated classic flavors with dishes inspired by Spain, Italy and France. The babbling brook of Oak Creek makes for an unforgettable dining experience. This restaurant is truly extraordinary. Call ahead to reserve your spot at this once in a lifetime retreat.
6. Dillon’s Bayou
Location: 40202 N 87th Ave., Peoria, Arizona
A Phoenix favorite, Dillon’s Bayou presents a great dining experience against the backdrop of Lake Pleasant in Peoria. Your feast may include items like their award-winning barbecue, brisket platter, pulled pork sandwich and more. This is the fourth location opened by the chain and it will not disappoint.
Location: 7114 E Stetson Dr #210, Scottsdale, Arizona
Lastly, Tapas Papa Frita is a waterfront restaurant that is part of the Scottsdale Waterfront Experience in Downtown Scottsdale. Even though the water is more of a canal, the atmosphere is just as inviting. When the weather is just right, snag a table outside to get the best views. Be sure to order up some Paellas and wash it down with sangria to get the full effect.
Bottom Line
When it comes to dining in Arizona on the waterfront, the views are as diverse as the food options. You can opt for simple or fancy, big lake or little pond. Either way, the experience will not be dull. No matter how you slice it, the experience will be worth it.
