While dining in is always a treat, there’s just something about dining near the waterfront that is both relaxing and soothing for the soul. Maybe it’s the magenta sunsets, crystal clear waters, and glistening horizons reflected in a kaleidoscope of colors along the tranquil river. Or perhaps it’s just getting to experience dining with a little twist in the weather. Whatever makes it so special, these local restaurants in the Tri-Cities community have got you covered when you want to enjoy relaxing waterfront dining with a scenic view of the Columbia River.
Cedars at Pier One
355 Clover Island Dr., Kennewick
509.582.2143
If you’re looking for a unique, upscale dining experience on the water, look no further than Cedars at Pier One in Kennewick. This locally owned and operated restaurant has been calling Clover Island home since 1976, providing patrons a breathtaking view of the beautiful Columbia River while they enjoy delicious meals using some of the finest produce available, including Painted Hills Natural Beef. Cedars at Pier One holds a special place in now owners Doug and Carrie Lundgren’s hearts as this memorable dining spot was someplace Doug had brought Carrie to when they first started dating. They acquired ownership of Cedars in 2019 and have continued the tradition of making every meal feel like a special occasion ever since.
Lu Lu Craft Bar + Kitchen
606 Columbia Point Dr, Richland
509.713.7880
Farm-to-table restaurant Lu Lu Craft Bar + Kitchen is also nestled along the banks of the mighty Columbia in Richland. A modern feel with a sense of family and history greets diners, as well as a variety of food options such as fresh ground burgers, custom-cut steaks, and delicious salad choices made with seasonal local produce. Of course, no meal would be complete without enjoying either one of their 12 beers on tap, 80 local wine selections, or one of their signature barrel-aged martinis. Stop in and enjoy a delicious meal on their outdoor open patio for a magnificent water view.
Budd’s Broiler
450 Columbia Point Dr., Richland
509.946.8178
Since 1973, Anthony’s Restaurants have been providing excellent seafood and unique dining experiences to residents of the Pacific Northwest. The location in Richland, known as Budd’s Broiler, is no different. They’ve created this location, especially for the Tri-Cities community, creating a restaurant reflecting the style and personality of the neighborhood overlooking the glistening waters of the Columbia River. The menu at this premier local steakhouse features a variety of cuts of meat from Northwest’s own Snake River Farms and Double R Ranch, as well as fresh seafood from Anthony’s Seafood Company. Customers stopping in for a bite here can expect a memorable meal and unmatched views of the ever-flowing Columbia River!
Anthony’s Homeport
550 Columbia Point Dr., Richland
509.946.3474
Anthony’s Restaurant actually has not one but two restaurants along the beautiful Columbia River. Besides Budd’s Broiler, they also have another restaurant in Richland known as Anthony’s Homeport. The fresh Northwest seafood and memorable meals are still the same at this location, but the unmatched view is slightly different. Here, patrons can expect a beautiful backdrop with their meal in the form of not only the river itself but also a view of the Columbia Point Marina and Richland’s Marina Park.
Sterling’s Restaurant – On the River
890 George Washington Way, Richland
509.943.1588
Providing high-quality food for the Tri-Cities community, along with a fun and enjoyable ambiance, is Sterling’s Restaurant – On the River in Richland. These elements combine to create an extraordinary dining experience any time of day at not just a single location but all Sterling’s restaurants in the Tri-Cities area. However, it’s only at their On The River location that locals can enjoy a fantastic view of the tranquil Columbia River while enjoying a meal out on their open patio.
Crow’s Nest Bar & Grill
435 Clover Island Dr., Kennewick
509.586.0541
Those looking for a real bird’s eye view of the scenic Columbia River while enjoying meal time should consider stopping by the Crow’s Nest Bar & Grill in Kennewick. The restaurant is able to offer such a panoramic view of the river because it’s perched atop the fourth floor of Clover Island Inn. It’s almost as if you’re sailing the seven seas while dining here, not only because of the beautiful views but also because the restaurant itself reflects the ambiance of a Captain’s quarters on an old wooden ship. Drop an anchor and stop on in for one of the finest dining experiences in Tri-Cities, not soon forgotten.
So, the next time you feel like enjoying a relaxing meal by the water that soothes both your soul and your appetite, consider paying a visit to any of these local waterfront restaurants showcasing a beautiful view of the Tri-Cities’ flowing Columbia River!
