14 Best Restaurants with Scenic Outdoor Dining in New Jersey
[2025 Guide]

Battelo - Jersey City 
Battello shines as a destination that combines unbeatable waterfront views, refined design, and thoughtful cuisine and service—a perfect choice if you're looking to dine al fresco with a spectacular NYC skyline backdrop.
Perched on a pier at the Newport Yacht Club, Battello features an outdoor patio that opens directly toward the Hudson with unobstructed vistas—especially dramatic at sunset. Battello features a chef-driven menu by Ryan DePersio, blending modern Italian with seafood-forward, seasonal dishes.
For the best views, arrive early—especially in summer.

 HAVEN Riverfront Restaurant and Bar - Edgewater 
HAVEN offers one of the best outdoor dining experiences in North Jersey—with an unbeatable view, elevated culinary offerings, and ambiance that makes any outdoor meal feel like a special event.
Perched right on Edgewater Harbor, the outdoor terrace offers sweeping views of the New York City skyline—particularly dazzling at sunset and into the evening. Chef Angel Andino curates an inventive menu with standout dishes—all served in the fresh air with a view.
The vibe is "romantic and sexy," ideal for date nights, special occasions, or just soaking in a classy vibe outdoors.

Proving Ground- Highlands, NJ 
For an outdoor dinner spot with stellar bay views, a fun and lively crowd, and a creative menu of seafood and drinks, Proving Ground stands out as one of the top waterfront options in New Jersey.
Perched on Sandy Hook Bay, many outdoor tables overlook the water, offering views of boats, the bay, and even Sandy Hook itself. Serves a creative American-seafood menu with sharable starters (like crab dip, wings, ceviche), plus handhelds and entrees meant for breezy waterfront dining.
If you go, try to make a reservation early (especially for sunset slots!), ask to sit by the water, and enjoy the energetic outdoor vibes.

Riverwinds Restaurant-West Deptford
If you're seeking riverside dining with scenic views, refreshing breezes, strong food-and-drink offerings, and the capacity to host large or special gatherings—Riverwinds Restaurant delivers a memorable setting whether you're heading out for dinner, cocktails, or a celebration.
Situated right on the Delaware River, the restaurant offers panoramic views of the water and the Philadelphia skyline, best enjoyed during sunset or nightfall. Guests can get to watch airplanes landing at PHL and boats passing by as part of the ambiance.
The menu features seafood and raw bar offerings like oysters, crab cocktail, blackened salmon, ahi tuna, and lobster ravioli, in addition to steaks and seasonal dishes.

Andre’s Lakeside Dining – Sparta: Classic American Plates, Lakeside Calm & Dockside Patios 
Andre’s Lakeside Dining offers a peaceful escape into pure lakeside relaxation.
Sitting right on the shore of Seneca Lake, the expansive deck makes you feel like you’re on your own floating retreat. Adirondack chairs and dockside tables face sweeping water views, where sunlight dances across the ripples and the trees reflect in the lake. The menu leans on American classics, done with modern style—think locally sourced steaks, seafood, and handmade pastas. Outdoor fireplaces and string lights create a soft evening glow, making Andre’s a perfect place for date nights and slow weekend lunches.
This spot is always top of mind for anyone craving lakeside serenity with their meal. The setting feels tucked away, yet inviting for both celebrations and quiet nights out.

Chef’s Garden – Hamburg: Farm-to-Table Freshness & Mountain Views in a Garden Wonderland 
Chef’s Garden is outdoor dining for anyone who dreams of eating right where the food is grown.
Tucked into the Crystal Springs Resort, this open-air restaurant takes farm-to-table to the next level—tables are set right in the working garden, with mountains rising in the background and the scent of herbs in the air.
Guests enjoy a hyper-seasonal menu, often featuring vegetables and herbs harvested just minutes before they’re plated. The garden setting is immersive—walk the paths before dinner, feel the gravel beneath your feet, and soak in the mountain air as dusk settles.
Dining at Chef’s Garden blurs the line between farm and table. Surrounded by natural beauty, every dish feels fresher and every view invites you to linger a little longer.

Rat’s Restaurant at Grounds for Sculpture – Hamilton: Artistic Patios Beside Lily Ponds & Gardens 
Dining at Rat’s Restaurant is like stepping into an impressionist painting.
This garden bistro, tucked within the Grounds for Sculpture art park, charms guests with its winding stone patios, whimsical decor, and the tranquil sight of lily ponds and manicured flower beds.
Sculptures peek from the landscaping, water features shimmer in the sunlight, and every seat feels a little private, thanks to the lush greenery all around.
The French-inspired menu is anything but stuffy, featuring seasonal produce and charcuterie plates, perfectly seared duck, and silky crème brûlée. Alfresco tables put you close enough to touch the blossoms or watch koi glide beneath arched bridges.
If you want romance, artistic flair, or a memorable special occasion, Rat’s is a must for anyone searching for restaurants with scenic outdoor patio dining.

Carlucci’s Waterfront- Mount Laurel 
This outdoor dining spot stands out as a truly exceptional outdoor dining destination thanks to its stunning lakeside (creek-side) setting, refined cuisine, and year-round alfresco comfort.
Located right on the scenic Rancocas Creek, Carlucci's offers sweeping water views that serve as the perfect backdrop for dinner, especially at sunset. Guests often highlight the tranquil, picturesque atmosphere as a big part of the charm.
The open, elevated patio or lounge features cushioned seating and sometimes a gazebo—creating a resort-style vibe that invites leisurely meals and memorable moments.
More than ambiance, it's about pairing the view with exceptional food. A menu rich in Italian classics and seafood dishes is tailored to complement the outdoor vibe.
Signature cocktails with live musi enhances the evening atmosphere without overwhelming conversation.

The RoofTop at Exchange Place – Jersey City: Cosmopolitan Vibe, City Lights 
If glitz and energy fuel your perfect night out, The RoofTop at Exchange Place in Jersey City fits the bill. Located atop the Hyatt House hotel, this venue brings guests face-to-face with Manhattan’s towers, the Statue of Liberty, and the full sweep of the Hudson.
Here, the mood is always lively, especially after sunset when city lights flicker on across the water. The patio’s retractable glass roofs and walls make it a year-round favorite for urban explorers.
Highlights include:
Creative cocktails and a top-shelf liquor selection, with expert bartenders serving everything from fresh margaritas to smoked old fashioneds.
A diverse culinary menu: try shared plates like flatbreads, Korean BBQ sliders, and calamari, or go all-in with New American mains and globally inspired. 
Tables outside get snapped up quick, thanks to unobstructed skyline views. Whether you’re planning date night, meeting friends for happy hour, or celebrating a big moment, The RoofTop at Exchange Place nails the blend of city-slick style and scenic outdoor patio dining that keeps guests returning.

Teak – Red Bank: Rooftop Sushi and Asian Small Plates, Nightlife Energy, and River Views
Teak in Red Bank flips the script on rooftop dining with a blend of Asian cuisine, signature sushi, and a rooftop scene that pulses with energy after dark. The rooftop here sits above Broad Street, letting diners look out over the Navesink River and the lively downtown below. 
The setting mixes sleek, contemporary furnishings with industrial accents and plenty of greenery.
Teak's rooftop balances laidback river views by day with nightlife buzz after the sun goes down, making it a one-of-a-kind choice for restaurants with scenic outdoor patio dining in New Jersey.
On warmer nights, the rooftop becomes Red Bank’s go-to spot for:
Artfully prepared sushi and sashimi, plus bold Asian small plates like Thai wings and spicy dumplings. 
Craft cocktails mixed with seasonal flavors and sake-based twists.
Live DJs, special events, and a crowd that knows how to have a good time.

The Vue Rooftop Bar-Atlantic City-Upscale Ambiance 
The Vue Rooftop Bar offers a unique mix of scenic views, upscale ambiance, and great drinks in a relaxed-yet-sophisticated setting—making it one of Atlantic City's premier outdoor dining and nightlife destinations.
Perched on the 23rd floor, The Vue provides sweeping 360-degree views of the Atlantic Ocean, beach, and city skyline.
The combination of coastal scenery and glittering high-rise lights creates a vibrant, elevated atmosphere, especially at sunset or after dark.The Vue blends chic indoor and outdoor seating with comfortable lounge furniture, fire pits, and glass-paneled railings—allowing guests to enjoy the views in a stylish, relaxing setting.
It's perfect for date nights, group hangouts, or a classy night out. The bar features a creative cocktail menu, wine list, and a solid selection of beers. Their food offerings range from shareable plates to upscale bar bites—designed to complement the laid-back, yet sophisticated vibe.
While it's ideal in warm weather, The Vue also accommodates guests during cooler months with covered seating, heaters, and fire features—extending the rooftop experience into early spring and late fall.

River and Rail Cantina – Cranford: Riverside Games, Lounges, and Mexican Eats 
River and Rail Cantina sits on the riverbank in Cranford and turns dining into a lively outdoor event.
Imagine a place where kids run around giggling over bean bag tosses while adults unwind with a margarita in hand.
The patio sprawls with comfy Adirondack chairs, picnic tables, and plenty of shade so everyone finds a perfect spot.
The patio buzzes with energy thanks to yard games and a laid-back vibe that welcomes groups and families.Cheerful service brings out plates piled with chimichangas, fresh tacos, sizzling fajitas, and churros for dessert.Dogs are welcome, making it an easy pick for family outings or play dates.
On warm evenings, string lights and the sound of the nearby river create just the right amount of magic.

 The Shrimp Box – Point Pleasant Beach: Jersey Shore Seafood and Sun-Soaked Patios 
The Shrimp Box has been a Jersey Shore favorite for generations, famous for breezy dockside views and seafood so fresh it tastes like summer. The outdoor patio bar grabs all the best sunlight while salt air and gull calls set the soundtrack. Here, families unwind after a day at the beach or celebrate the start of vacation. Waterfront tables let you watch fishing boats float by, giving every meal a postcard view.
The menu focuses on shore classics with options for kids and hearty eaters alike. A casual, open-air layout keeps things cool, while ample seating means families with strollers or small groups always find room. It’s easy to see why The Shrimp Box stands out for scenic outdoor patio dining. There’s no fuss here—just good food, sunshine, and a spot where every generation feels at home.

MudHen-Wildwood 
MudHen offers a spacious outdoor patio complete with fire pits, cornhole, and plenty of seating—making it ideal for families with kids or bigger groups seeking to relax in a lively but laid-back setting.
Families often appreciate that the outdoor area isn't just seating—it doubles as a fun community space where kids can move around while parents unwind.
What sets MudHen apart at the Jersey Shore is that it's not just a brewery but a brewpub that also holds a liquor license—so it offers both house-brewed beers and spirits/cocktails . Parents can enjoy a local beer or a cocktail, while kids stay engaged in the outdoor space.
The menu includes crowd-pleasers such as burgers, smoked wings, mac & cheese, ribs, salads, and skillets—comfort food done well.
MudHen regularly hosts live music—especially on weekends—and boasts a fun, buzzy atmosphere without being overly loud or inaccessible for families.