A favorite among locals, Portofino specializes in Italian fare and seafood, with a full menu that includes steaks, small plates to share, and several salads. Enjoy a meal with views on the patio or sign up for one of the popular dinner cruises.

This old-school but hip tavern is a go-to for eclectic American brunch fare such as chicken and waffles with jalapeno vanilla syrup or strawberry shortcake French toast. Finish things off on the patio with a build-your-own bloody Mary or mimosa.

This dockside restaurant offers standard American lunch and dinner fare ranging from burgers and crab cakes to salads and veggie pizza. Try the tasty signature coconut shrimp with orange marmalade sauce with a hint of horseradish, but understand that what customers really go for are the views of the Detroit River. Grab a seat next to the window, pull up in a boat to one of the 20 docks, or enjoy the breeze from the spacious patio overlooking the water.

Andiamo, which sits inside the Renaissance Center, has a modern Italian menu full of pasta, seafood, veal, and steak. The extensive wine list has whites, reds, and sparkling Champagne, and there are cocktails to go. The food and white-tablecloth atmosphere is improved only by the panoramic views of the Detroit River and Canadian skyline.

The Rattlesnake Club’s minimalist dining room is a favorite spot for weddings and cocktail parties, thanks to its close proximity to the Detroit RiverWalk and panoramic views of downtown’s skyline. Standout menu items include the sweet pea and zucchini fritters and the braised Colorado lamb shank.

One of Detroit’s most anticipated restaurants, Coriander Kitchen and Farm opened in March 2021 on the site of the former Fisherman’s Marina in Detroit’s canal district. Arrive via bike, kayak, or car for first-come, first-served seating at picnic tables on the canal-side patio, or reserve seating around a fire pit. Kick off the meal with grilled halloumi or the farmer’s plate, loaded with veggies from the restaurant’s nearby urban farm. Move on to a burger or flatbreads topped with seasonal squash and potatoes or grilled lamb.

This restaurant, which has a nautical theme to match its location, serves seafood, burgers, and pizza. Go for drinks, the nightly live music and dancing, and a stellar view of Lake St. Clair.

Arrive by boat or car to Watermark, which is located in Safe Harbor Jefferson Beach Marina. The year-round waterfront destination serves Greek fare, American pub grub, and surf-and-turf selections such as calamari, grilled octopus, lamb chops, pasta, pizza, and a Big Fat Greek Burger, topped with kasseri cheese and tzatziki. The outside deck, which includes a tiki bar, has seating for 125.