If I’m being honest, the Dells has a shortage of nice waterfront restaurants (particularly Lake Delton). While I understand real estate is at a premium on the lake, two restaurants feels woefully insufficient. Add in another four on river and we’re at a grand total of six, all of which I’ve included below. Whether you’re craving dockside burgers or sunset cocktails, this guide has you covered. From lakeside patios to riverside decks, these are the best only waterfront restaurants in Wisconsin Dells (but seriously they’re all great). Grab a drink, watch the sunset, and enjoy local flavors with a view.
There’s something about dining next to water that instantly makes everything better — the views, the breeze, the vibe. Whether you’re coming off the lake or just want to relax with a drink near the river, these are the top waterfront restaurants in and around Wisconsin Dells you shouldn’t miss.
🥇 1. Ravina Bay Bar & Grill
📍 231 County Rd A
Why it’s #1: Ravina Bay is a true dock-and-dine experience on Lake Delton — boaters can tie up right at the dock and walk up to one of the most scenic patios in the Dells. This local favorite is known for casual comfort food, friendly service, and a steady flow of frozen cocktails in the summer. The setting feels like a lake vacation in full swing: string lights overhead, music in the background, and the lake just a few feet away. My favorite food here is probably the smash burgers, but nothing has ever let me down. I’ve never considered combining crepes and mojitos, but I’m intrigued. The rotating cocktail menu is also fantastic (they have a Oaxaca Sour), making Ravina Bay an easy number 1 for me.
- Vibe: Classic Wisconsin lakefront — fun, casual, great for groups
- What to Order: Everything, Cheese Curds, Premium Paloma
- Bonus: Huge patio, weekend DJ nights
🔗 https://ravinabaygrill.com/wisconsin-dells-wisconsin-dells-ravina-bay-food-menu
🥈 2. The Dells Boathouse (The VUE)
📍 1055 River Rd
The Boathouse is the restaurant inside The Vue hotel on River Road. With plenty of riverfront seating right on the Wisconsin River, The Boathouse nails the waterfront dining vibe. It’s a great spot for lunch with a view or a sunset dinner with cocktails. The patio is especially popular during golden hour. Inside, you’ll find a bit of a more upscale menu (calamari, steak poutine, etc). If you’re into whiskey, they have an extensive menu of Old Fashioned’s and Manhattans. They have Happy Hour specials Sunday-Thursdays where you can catch 25% off drinks and some great deals on appetizers.
- Vibe: Upscale, scenic, great for date nights or small groups
- What to Order: Boathouse Cheese Steak, The VUE Manhattan
- Bonus: Plenty of great seats with a view
🔗 dellsboathouse.com
🥉 3. Lake House Grill
📍 1280 E Hiawatha Dr.
The second of two restaurants on Lake Delton, Lake House Grill offers true waterfront dining with views of the marina and a spacious outdoor patio. It’s a great place to unwind after a day on the lake, with a laid-back atmosphere and classic American fare — think burgers, sandwiches, and drinks with a view. They’ve got a few excellent frozen drinks (Sunset Passion Colada, Mango Dragon Mojito, and the Bomb Pop), Summer Sangria, and Lake Delton Lemonade. Overall an awesome drink menu and above average food, and another one of the great waterfront restaurants in Wisconsin Dells.
- Vibe: Casual, lakefront, good for groups and families
- What to Order: Fish Fry, Burgers, Raspberry Rye Lemonade
- Bonus: Outdoor bar and plenty of patio seating
🔗 https://www.thelakehousegrill.com/
🌅 4. River’s Edge Pub & Grub
📍 30 County Rd A
One of the Dells’ most beloved rustic restaurants, River’s Edge has that true Northwoods feel — with knotty pine interiors, taxidermy, and even a massive indoor aquarium. But the real draw in summer is the outdoor deck facing the Wisconsin River. It’s peaceful, family-friendly, and feels just remote enough to escape the crowds while still being close to downtown.
- Vibe: Rustic cabin meets local pub
- What to Order: Broasted Chicken, Catfish Platter, Wisconsin Old Fashioned
- Bonus: Dock your boat and walk right in
🔗 riversedgepubandgrub.com
🏞 5. Riverwalk Pub
📍 911 River Rd
Tucked into the hillside along the Wisconsin Riverwalk trail, this charming pub features a great mix of indoor dining and a shaded outdoor patio with elevated river views. It’s one of the more laid-back spots downtown and ideal for couples, smaller groups, or anyone looking to enjoy a quiet evening over a good meal and a great drink.
- Vibe: Peaceful, romantic, low-key
- What to Order: Prime Rib Sandwich, Fried Pickles, Bloody Mary
- Bonus: Outdoor fire pits and walkable to nearby shops
🔗 riverwalkpub.com
⭐️ Bonus Pick: The District
📍 725 River Rd
The District is one of the best spots in the Dells for outdoor dining and live music. They have live music almost every night all Summer long. The District definitely has the best “vibe” of all the waterfront places in the Dells, but you also pay for it. Their plain, no frills burgers is $15.99, most beers and seltzers (non-craft) are $8, and cocktails are around $15. However, it’s dog-friendly, has outdoor firepit tables, cornhole (or bags if you prefer), a TON of seating options, and is closest to the rest of the action on Broadway. Where River’s Edge and Riverwalk have a Northwoods feel, The District is much more trendy (and Tik Tok worthy for all you Gen-Zers out there).
- Vibe: Trendy, energetic, ideal for evening drinks
- What to Order: Brisket Nachos, Smashburgers, Draft cocktails
- Bonus: Rooftop views, near Riverwalk access
🔗 thedistrictdells.com
And there you have it — the best waterfront restaurants in Wisconsin Dells. Whether you’re arriving by boat or just looking for dinner with a view, these local favorites offer great food, drinks, and unbeatable scenery. Be sure to bookmark this list for your next visit, and stay tuned for more local rankings and guides from Dells Ranked.
Leave a Reply