Dining along Seattle's downtown waterfront is a wonderful experience that includes fresh local food and drink along with fabulous Elliott Bay view and fun people watching. There are swanky sit-down restaurants and casual eateries, places where you can dine inside or outside. Not surprisingly, most of these restaurants feature Pacific Northwest cuisine and local seafood. Here are my recommendations for where to eat during a visit to Seattle's downtown waterfront.

1. Ivar's Acres of Clams

Enjoy harbor and mountain views and fresh shellfish and salmon, along with other fresh seafoods, for lunch and dinner at this favorite Seattle eatery. The Ivar's Acres of Clams location, an elegant sit-down restaurant, is located out on Pier 54, behind the casual seafood bar.More »

2. Ivar's Pier 54 Seafood Bar

This family-friendly casual seafood stand offers counter service and outdoor seating, some in an enclosed area protected from the rain or wind. Their fish and chips and clam chowder are extremely tasty and popular with the locals.More »

3. Anthony's Pier 66

There are 12 fine waterfront dining establishments in Anthony's family of Puget Sound restaurants.The Seattle waterfront location is situated near the Bell Street Pier Cruise Terminal, providing views of cruise ships at dock as well as the nearby marina.More »

4. The Fisherman's Restaurant and Bar

This family-friendly seafood restaurant is located at Miner's Landing at Pier 57, the site of the Great Seattle Wheel, The Fisherman's Restaurant serves the full range of seafood as well as steaks and pasta. To make things extra festive, some family-style-served menu items, or "feasts" are available.More »

5. Elliott's Oyster House

Located at Pier 56, just south of the Great Seattle Wheel, Elliott's Oyster House serves the freshest of local, seasonal oysters along with a full menu featuring sustainable seafoods. With a section of outdoor seating, Elliott's is also a nice place to relax and enjoy a beer or cocktail.More »

6. Six Seven Restaurant

Located in the Edgewater Hotel on Pier 67, this upscale restaurant offers an elegant setting and fabulous Puget Sound views, making it a great choice for a romantic date or special occasion.More »

7. Aqua by El Gaucho

Located at Pier 70, diners at Aqua can enjoy water and Space Needle views. Both fish and steaks are featured on the menu, along with creative cocktails and desserts. Aqua is a good choice if you're trying to make an impression.More »