Washingtonians appreciate sunny weather more than most. So when the season heats up here, inside is the last place you'll find us.
Renton takes full advantage of the season with restaurants overlooking Lake Washington, spacious patios, beer gardens, and casual spots that are easy to try between parks, trails, and local events.
Here are a few of our favorite places to dine when the weather is too good not to be outside.
Waterfront Dining Experiences
Renton’s waterfront restaurants are the first place you’ll find locals who are looking to dine with a view.
Water’s Table at the Hyatt Regency is a favorite after a day at the beach because of its spacious waterfront patio, comfortable lounge seating, and elegant but welcoming atmosphere. Order a burger or a cocktail and settle in as you watch boats drift across Lake Washington.
At Dock & Drink, you're practically on the water. Diners frequently order the sushi, tempura, and creative drinks while taking in stunning lake views.
Finally, we can’t talk about waterfront meals without mentioning Ivar's. It’s a Pacific Northwest classic that serves generous portions of cod and fries, chowder, and other favorites just steps from Gene Coulon Memorial Beach Park.
Best Patios & Outdoor Seating
Patios in Renton are a social hub in the summer and you’re likely to notice friends catching up after work and families lingering well into the evening.
Downtown, Berliner Pub is always buzzing on match days with crazed soccer fans. But beyond that, regulars just love its lively beer garden, German bratwursts and schnitzels, and their imported beers.
Whistle Stop Ale House is a cozy, neighborhood gathering place with jumbo burgers, a large patio, and even water bowls for those with dogs. Brewmaster's Taproom is another energetic community hub known for fun events, its bring-your-own-food policy, and a large sunny patio where visitors chat and hang with their dogs.
Finally, The Landing is a family-friendly outdoor shopping center where shoppers can walk from storefront to storefront. Restaurants like Vino at the Landing and Trenchers Kitchen & Tap are lovely options for outdoor dining on a sunny afternoon.
More Summer Eats & Local Favorites
Looking for something different? Anchovies & Salt offers a fresh take on Vietnamese cuisine with dishes like pho, broken rice, spring rolls, and seafood specialties, all just steps from Lake Washington.
For something quick and casual head downtown where you’ll find coffee shops and pizza stops that make it easy to grab a quick bite in between activities.
Where to Eat After a Day of Exploring
After an afternoon at Gene Coulon Memorial Beach Park, keep the lake views going with dinner at Water’s Table, Dock & Drink, or Ivar's. If you've spent the day on the Cedar River Trail or wandering downtown, Berliner Pub, Whistle Stop Ale House, and Brewmaster's Taproom are easy places to relax over food and drinks outside.
Looking for more places to eat? Explore Renton's full dining scene or check out upcoming events to plan a full summer day around great food and time outdoors.