BEST RIVER VIEWS & PATIO DINING IN THE TRI-STATE Where Good Food Meets Great Views

When the sun’s out and the breeze is just right, there’s nothing better than enjoying a meal outdoors.

Luckily, the Tri-State is packed with incredible restaurant patios where you can soak up the scenery while sipping on something cold and refreshing and enjoy a great meal. Whether you're craving fresh seafood, Mediterranean flavors, or a killer steak, these restaurants have got you covered.

Bud’s Rockin’ Country Bar & Grill

For great food and nightlife, Bud’s on Franklin Street is the place to be! Grab a frosty draft, catch the big game on massive TVs, or play pool and cornhole. The lively patio is perfect for relaxing with friends and a cold drink. With daily specials, live music, and a Nashville vibe on weekends, the fun never stops. Open until 3 a.m., Bud’s is your go-to spot for good times any night of the week!

2124 W Franklin St, Evansville, IN (812) 401-1730 https://www.facebook.com/ BudsOnFranklin

Cap & Cork

If you love a good steak, a perfectly cooked piece of seafood, or a bourbon selection that’ll blow your mind, Cap & Cork in Henderson is where it’s at. Their patio gives off cozy, Southern charm vibes with a front-row seat to the river. With 14 beers on tap, over 50 wines, and the largest allocated bourbon selection in Western Kentucky, you’re guaranteed to find the perfect drink to pair with your meal. If you’re so inclined, there is a large choice of cigars that you can enjoy in their indoor lounge, or outdoors with a river view!

104 N Water Street, Henderson, KY (270) 833-1101 www.facebook.com/capncorkhendo

The Dive Barge/Marina Pointe

For a laid-back, riverfront hangout with great food and views, The Dive Barge is the spot. Located on the Ohio River at Inland Marina, it serves up fresh seafood, crispy wings, and cold drinks on a spacious patio. Boaters can dock right on the barge! Nearby, Marina Pointe keeps the party going with live music, dancing, and unbeatable waterfront vibes. Pro Tip: Grab a meal at The Dive Barge, then head to Marina Pointe for drinks and live tunes!

1801 Waterworks Road, Evansville, IN

Find them on Facebook: www.facebook.com/TheDiveBarge www.facebook.com/ MarinaPointeNightclub

Marida Mediterranean Restaurant

For a Mediterranean escape with stunning riverfront views, Marida Restaurant in Newburgh is a hidden gem. Enjoy authentic Turkish and Kurdish cuisine—fresh kebabs, warm pita, and perfectly spiced hummus—while soaking in the relaxed, vacation-like atmosphere. The multi-level patio offers dreamy waterfront dining, and a new tiki bar is on the way, with more surprises coming soon.

1 East Water Street, Newburgh, IN (812) 518-3065

Find them on Facebook! https://maridarestaurant.com/

More Amazing Patio Spots in the Tri-State

If you're on the hunt for even more great patios to check out, here are some other favorites:

2nd Language – 401 NW 2nd St, Evansville, IN – An innovative global restaurant in the heart of downtown Evansville serving authentic ramen, modern Southeast Asian cuisine, hand crafted cocktails and savory desserts from their French pâtisserie. They have a beautiful outdoor patio filled with flowers and greenery.

Bar Louie – 7700 Eagle Crest Blvd, Evansville, IN – A trendy American Bar and Gril offering great burgers and sandwiches, steak and seafood, bar bites, martinis, and two spacious patios. The front patio can be enclosed and enjoyed year-round.

Bokeh Lounge – 1007 Parrett St, Evansville, IN – A hip spot for craft drinks, live music, and a relaxing outdoor front patio, with a large enclosed rear patio that offers a variety of seating options and live music throughout the week.

Cavanaugh’s – 421 NW Riverside Dr., Evansville, IN – Located in the Bally’s Evansville Casino and Hotel complex, enjoy a top tier experience including steaks, seafood and a premium cocktail program. Although there isn’t a patio, Cavanaugh’s deserves special mention for the spectacular view of the river from the dining room.

Deerhead Sidewalk Café and Bar – 222 E Columbia St, Evansville, IN – A laid-back, old-school tavern with legendary pizza, sandwiches, soups and salads, and a full cocktail bar. Their enclosed patio is the perfect spot for a business meeting, date night, or get-togethers with family or friends.

Other Great Spots Worth Checking Out

If you’re still looking for more, here are some additional local favorites with patios and great food:

10-8 Café, Evansville

Bad Randy’s Hot Chicken & BBQ Lounge, Evansville

Bru Burger, Evansville

Bubba’s 33, Evansville

Café Arazu, Newburgh

Fiesta Acapulco – 8480 High Pointe Drive, Newburgh, IN – Enjoy great cocktails and delicious Mexican cuisine at this longtime Newburgh restaurant. The large and colorful patio overlooks a large lake filled with ducks and swans. There’s even a play area for the kids.

Honey Moon Coffee Newburgh – 612 State St, Newburgh, IN – A charming café serving up artisan coffee and baked goods. They have a cozy patio space with a beautiful view of the Ohio River.

Jacob’s Pub – 2001 W Franklin St, Evansville, IN – Formerly DiLegge’s, this restaurant has a long history of serving up authentic Italian cuisine and now has a great bar program and delicious lunch specials. Their patio is currently under renovation and will soon offer a fire pit, fireplace and fresh herbs and vegetables their chef will incorporate into their menu.

Kite & Key – 2301 W Franklin St, Evansville, IN – One of Evansville’s favorite spots on Franklin Street has two outdoor patios, one in back and a new larger space on the front sidewalk. This casual café serves sweet and savory breakfasts including cinnamon rolls, French toast, omelets and specialty coffees and tea. Their lunch offerings include burgers, wraps, quesadillas, soups and salads.

Robert’s by the River – 6 Walnut St, Evansville, IN – One of the areas newer downtown restaurants serving authentic southern comfort cuisine in a casual and relaxed atmosphere. They offer lunch and dinner, a daily salad bar and specialty cocktails. Their patio is just below street level In the Hadi Shrine building, just steps away from the Ohio River.

Smitty’s Italian Restaurant – 2109 W Franklin St, Evansville, IN – An old school Italian Osteria featuring two large outdoor patios. Enjoy steaks, pasta, salads and delicious Italian desserts surrounded by trees, plants, flowers and fountains. Smitty’s also offers a full bar offering boutique spirits, craft beers and a curated wine list.

Casey’s Dugout, Evansville

Chasers, Evansville

Cosmos Bistro / Industry Bar, Evansville

Damsels Brew Pub, Evansville

Entwined Wine & Cocktail Bar, Evansville

Farmer and Frenchman, Henderson, KY

Franklin Street Pizza Factory, Evansville

Gerst Haus, Evansville

Homer’s Barbecue, Henderson, KY

Hornets Nest Steakhouse, Evansville

Knob Hill Tavern, Newburgh

Main St. Food and Beverage Food Hall, Evansville

Noche Cantina & Cocina, Evansville

Patsy Hartigan’s Irish Pub, Evansville

Prime Time North, Evansville

Prime Time Pub & Grill, Newburgh

Rockhouse on the River, Henderson, KY

Samuel’s, Evansville

Smitty’s Italian Steakhouse, Evansville

Sportsmans Grille & Billiards, Evansville

The Rooftop, Evansville