Top Waterside Bars In Philadelphia
Whether it's on the banks of the Schuylkill River or down by the Delaware River, Philadelphia has plenty of restaurants offering spectacular views of the water and the city. In fact, cool breezes from the river and pretty views pair perfectly with delicious meals and drinks. Without further ado, here are the top places for waterside dining.
Chart House
555 S. Columbus Blvd.
Philadelphia, PA 19147
(215) 625-8383
www.charthouse.com
Chart House is the perfect place for seafood lovers. Situated on the banks of the Delaware River, this restaurant serves delicious top-of-the catch fresh fish, like stuffed flounder, snapper Hemingway and sea bass. If you don't like seafood, Chart House also serves steaks, poultry and prime ribs, and this restaurant even has a gluten-free menu. Every table here offers picturesque sights and, whether it's of the Benjamin Franklin Bridge, Walt Whitman Bridge or the Battleship New Jersey over in Camden, you're sure to see some of the best views Philadelphia has to offer.
In Riva
4116 Ridge Ave.
Philadelphia, PA 19129
(215) 438-4848
www.in-riva.com
In Riva is in East Falls and its deck overlooks the Schuylkill River, offering spectacular views of the waterfront. The restaurant is known for its Neapolitan-style pizzas and its house-made pastas you can share with your friends. While here, enjoy an Italian beer or glass of wine or even try one of the restaurant's Italian cocktails, each named after a cyclist from Italy. The kitchen is run by Philadelphia-born chef Arthur Cavaliere, who previously ran the kitchen's of Jose Garces' Amada and Stephen Starr's El Vez, so you know you'll be in good hands.
Keating's River Grill
201 S. Columbus Blvd.
Philadelphia, PA 19106
(215) 521-6509
www.keatingsrivergrill.com
Located next to the Great Plaza at Penn's Landing, Keating's River Grill at the Hyatt Regency offers fantastic views of the Delaware River. Sit out on its riverfront terrace and enjoy a signature cocktail or a glass of wine from the Hyatt's signature wine list while you watch the sunset. The kitchen serves classic American fare, like cheesesteaks and burgers, and also has signature meals, like seared sea scallops or NY strip steak.
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Moshulu Restaurant
401 S. Christopher Columbus Blvd.
Philadelphia, PA 19106
(215) 923-2500
www.moshulu.com
The Moshulu is where you should be if you're looking for a little history with your meal. This sailing vessel was built in 1904 in Scotland and, during its early life, was used to transport coal and other cargo around the world. Named the Moshulu by Woodrow Wilson's wife, Edith, the ship was purchased in 1970 by the American Specialty Restaurants Corporation, who eventually moved it to its current location at Penn's Landing on the Delaware River and opened it as a floating restaurant in 1975. Moshulu's menu fuses together American, French and Southwestern cuisine and also offers the Bongo Bar located on the upper deck. On a warm night, you'll be able to enjoy the remarkable views the ship offers.
Water Works Restaurant
640 Water Works Drive
Philadelphia, PA 19130
(215) 236-9000
www.thewaterworksrestaurant.com
Water Works sits directly on the Schuylkill River and behind the Philadelphia Museum of Art. A National Historic Landmark since the 1976 Bicentennial, the Water Works used to be home to one of the first water delivery systems in the country. Now an upscale restaurant, this spot offers amazing views of Boathouse Row and the Schuylkill River. The food, however, is just as great as the views. A few highlights from the menu include Grand Marnier duck breast, bison ribeye and grilled octopus. Water Works is ideal for a special occasion or even just for a nice dinner and drinks with a few friends.
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Kelly Neilson is a freelance writer living and working in Philadelphia. Her work can be found on Examiner.com.
