Dining Guide: The Best Waterfront Restaurants on Lake Erie — Pennsylvania

Bay House Oyster Bar & Restaurant
As the city’s only fresh oyster bar and Argentine grill, the upscale destination brings a fresh experience to Erie’s culinary scene. Enjoy indoor and outdoor dining with stunning views of the bay and unique dining areas at the oyster bar and second-floor mezzanine and lounge, as well as a creatively curated menu of seafood, steaks, pasta and more. Here, the Lobster Macaroni & Cheese (grilled lobster tail with a garlic herb butter finish, house-made smoked cheddar beer cheese, cavatappi pasta, while truffle oil and panko crunch topped with fresh chives) steals the show. 6 Sassafras Pier, Erie, Pennsylvania, 814-413-7440

Two45 Waterfront Grille
Sheraton Erie Bayfront Hotel is at the heart of Pennsylvania’s Riviera. Located at Dobbin’s Landing, the restaurant capitalizes on its waterfront location with floor-to-ceiling windows and an outdoor patio with seating for 120 people. The patio is a popular spot on the weekends when live music accompanies the contemporary cuisine influenced that is influenced by both global and local tastes. The restaurant’s signature dishes include filet mignon, crab-stuffed trout, crab cakes, pan-roasted salmon and crispy fried perch. Wash it down with the craft cocktails, including the Presque Isle Manhattan. 55 W. Bay Road, Erie, Pennsylvania, 814-240-7263

The Cove Bay-Side Restaurant & Tavern (Seasonal)
Nautical-inspired decor and an unbelievable view of Presque Isle Bay will leave you feeling the venturous spirit of those who live their lives on the sea. Acoustic artist and DJs add to the relaxing, casual ambiance while frozen drinks and cocktails complement a menu that will satisfy any craving. Open Wednesday through Saturday. 2 State St., Erie, Pennsylvania, 814-454-7160

Oliver’s Rooftop
Floor-to-ceiling windows reveal wide and open views of Erie’s bayfront and the historic US Brig Niagara ship — and energy from the bustling Harbor Place fills the rooftop restaurant and outdoor beer garden. It’s the crown jewel atop the Hampton Inn & Suites and chock full of entertainment. It’s pet friendly, offers limited boat docking and serves up food from Oliver’s own food truck. Inside the restaurant, Chef Rick handcrafts dishes with a focus on seafood, especially in summertime. 130 E. Front St., Erie, 814-920-9666

Pier 6 Rooftop Bar & Restaurant
Dine, sip and enjoy stunning views of Lake Erie’s bayfront at Pier 6 Rooftop Bar and Restaurant, located above Bay House Oyster Bar. The city’s only indoor and outdoor rooftop bar and restaurant features indoor-outdoor fireplaces, a west deck with outdoor dining under large umbrellas and an east deck with comfortable lounge seating. The menu includes a large selection of craft beers, appetizers, flatbreads, handcrafted sandwiches, pub burgers and grain bowls — along with Sunday brunch and a kids’ menu. 6 Sassafras Pier, Erie, Pennsylvania, 814-413-7437

Rum Runners (Seasonal)
Named after its signature second-to-none summertime refreshment — a delicious blend of top secret ingredients that’s consistently voted Erie’s No.1 cocktail — Rum Runners is an outdoor bay-side favorite hangout specializing in burgers, salads, sandwiches and finger food in a fun, entertaining, casual atmosphere. 133 E. Dobbins Landing, Erie, Pennsylvania, 814-455-4292

Shoreline Bar and Grille
This casual hotel eatery, located in the Courtyard Erie Bayfront, offers American eats in a light-filled room with floor to ceiling windows, bay views and patio seating. Discover a standout selection of localized dishes made with fresh, regional ingredients and a thoughtfully curated menu of local craft beers, wines, classic cocktails and “zero proof” nonalcoholic beverages. 2 Sassafras Pier, Erie, Pennsylvania, 814-636-1005

Sloppy Duck Saloon
No matter where you sit, breathtaking views of Lake Erie await. Featuring two decks that overlook the water, as well as a tiki bar, this warm and inviting casual atmosphere will make you feel right at home. Here, the party never ends as seasonal live music provides patrons with some of the Tri-State area’s best local bands, offering the perfect setting to dance the night away. On Friday and Saturday nights, stay for karaoke, which provides hours of entertainment and laughter. 726 W. Bayfront Pkwy., Erie, Pennsylvania, 814-452-6699

Smugglers’ Wharf (Seasonal)
After taking in the sights and sounds during a leisurely stroll along East Dobbins Landing, grab a bite to eat at this pirate-themed space that boasts a magical outdoor patio covered in greenery for shade. Perfect for lunch or dinner, choose from an array of seafood dishes, from coconut shrimp and Great Lakes catches of the day to Langostino crab cakes, shrimp Mediterranean pasta, Cajun catfish, lobster roll and much more. Leave room for dessert, as the 14-Carrot Cake, Peanut Butter Pie and Deep Dish Bourbon Pecan Pie should not be missed. 3 State St., Erie, Pennsylvania, 814-459-4273

Woody’s Backwater BARge & Grill (Seasonal)
Woody’s Backwater BARge & Grill became the first floating patio in Erie when it opened in June 2018. Drink festive Caribbean-style cocktails while dining on sandwiches, salads and wraps with a view of the U.S. Brig Niagara and Erie Maritime Museum. 110 E. Dobbins Landing, Erie, Pennsylvania, 814-860-1385