This list of the best restaurants in Seattle with a view was inspired by my dad. Every year for his birthday he says he wants to go somewhere with “ambiance”…his code word for water views. And every year it’s a scramble trying to find places that he’ll enjoy.

I realized it was about time to put a list together compiling the lists upon lists I’ve made over the years. And since my family only accepts places with excellent food, I thought I’d pair it down to the places that we thoroughly enjoyed for both views and taste.

So if you too find yourself in a similar bind as I do every year on my dad’s birthday, use this list of my favorite restaurants in Seattle with a view as your guide!

Best Restaurants in Seattle with a View

I put these in alphabetic order and added a key to give you a sense of prices. $$$ means the place is fine dining and pricey, while $ means cheaper eats.

Aerlume

website | 2003 Western Ave (Downtown) | cuisine: Pacific Northwest | prices: $$$

We took my dad here for his last birthday. It’s one of the best fine dining restaurants in Seattle located just outside Pike Place Market. The decor is modern with an open kitchen, fire pit right in the middle of the restaurant, and a ton of windows. Those windows overlook the gorgeous Puget Sound and even leads out to a small deck open in summer. The picture above was from our table on the deck at sunset.

As far as food, the menu changes regularly to match the season. However, make sure to get the steak tartare, salmon gravalax, and chicken liver mousse. I don’t even like liver usually, but this was exceptional with the apples and pecans.

Ascend Prime Steak & Sushi

website | 10400 NE 4th St (Bellevue) | cuisine: steak and sushi