Dining with a View: Restaurants on the Water in Havre de Grace MD (Harford County)
- Lee Schafer
- Jul 20
- 5 min read
Updated: 3 days ago
As someone who calls Havre de Grace home, I’ll be the first to admit that I love nothing more than a restaurant on the water to enjoy my meal with a view—especially when the Susquehanna sparkles and the river breeze is in the air.
Our love for Havre de Grace is one of the reasons we started our apparel brand. Supporting local businesses and celebrating what makes this town unique is at the heart of what we do—and that includes highlighting some of the incredible waterfront dining in Havre de Grace.
So if you’re hoping to dine out by the water, you'll definitely want to make sure you try these local favorites!
Water Street Seafood: Our "Flavor Favorite" Restaurant on the Water in Havre de Grace
📍 654 Water Street
Water Street Seafood nails the sweet spot for me: breezy island vibes, great food, and a “kick back and relax” kind of attitude.
While it doesn’t provide an up close and personal waterfront, you will definitely feel like you found a hidden beachside getaway while you soak in the view of the Susquehanna River, the banks of which are just a short walk across the street.
A great thing about this location is that it's a tucked just North of the main shopping district, so parking is usually a breeze.
Of course if you do decide to walk, it's only about a half mile from the north end of St. John Street, so it's still walkable if you're hungry after a day of shopping in Havre de Grace.
Whenever I go, I grab a seat on the outside deck. The tables are named after tropical islands—which only adds to the vacation feel.
If eating outside is a must for you, call a day or two ahead (or earlier if it's a special occasion or holiday) to book those deck tables early—they fill up fast!
Of course, if it’s too hot or if I want to soak up the local character, the inside is just as great. Those tables? They’re named after waterfront towns that are near and dear to Marylanders, like “St. Michael’s” and “Solomon’s Island.” The place stays cool and cozy in every season, so it’s always a win.
If you go, don’t miss the Salt Life Pasta—it’s loaded with fresh seafood and bold flavors, and it’s hands-down my weakness. And for that iconic Maryland touch, I always recommend getting a round of their steamed crabs 🦀 when they’re available.
Their newly added bar is part of their expanded drink selection, which includes cocktails, wine, beer and hard ciders (My wife always recommends Ace hard pear cider when it's in season).
Clearly we just can't rave enough about Water Street Seafood in Havre de Grace. Definitely worth a visit!
Tidewater Grille: Best View for Havre de Grace Waterfront Dining
If jaw-dropping water views are what you’re after, Tidewater Grille can’t be beat. The outdoor seating is right on the edge of the waterfront, so close you might be tempted to dip your toes in.
No matter where I sit outside, I feel like I have front-row seats to the Chesapeake’s best shows—sunsets, sailboats, and the gentle sway of the river.
Be warned: on sunny weekends, everyone in town seems to have the same good idea. I always make a reservation (as far in advance as possible) to snatch one of those prized outdoor tables.
In the warmer months, Havre de Grace is also home to weekly Sailboat Races on Thursday evenings, and the lawn by the water is a top choice viewing spot, second to Concord Point Park (we'll let you guess which one has a full bar).
🥩 Menus: Breakfast / Lunch & Dinner
MacGregor's Restaurant: Convenience with an Elevated View
📍 331 St. John Street
Just up the block behind Tidewater is MacGregor’s Restaurant -- a longstanding establishment in the heart of the Havre de Grace shopping district. The building originally was an old bank, and even has a lounge space where the vault used to be, right off of the bar on the main floor.
And if it's a view you're looking for, head to the back deck where you'll find an elevated view of the river just beyond the neighboring Tidewater Grill.
The inside was recently spruced up after a Gordon Ramsey-inspired revamp—which is something you don’t see every day in a small town.
The Promenade Grille: Most Affordable Restaurant on the Water in Havre de Grace, MD
📍 352 Commerce Street
Not every waterfront meal has to be a big affair—sometimes, I just want something fast, casual, and easy on the wallet. The Promenade Grille fits the bill perfectly.
Tucked right behind Tydings Park, it’s the spot I find myself going to before or after a walk along the Promenade.
You order at the window, then settle under the gazebo, where you get a surprisingly lovely view of the harbor.
I’ll often go for their fish & chips (which are wonderfully crisp) or grab a burger if I’m really hungry.
The prices are more than fair, the vibe is as relaxed as it gets, and when I need a treat, a scoop of Hershey’s Ice Cream from their counter always does the trick.
Pro Tip: You won’t find their menu online, but we took a quick photo to help you get an idea of what to expect!
Pair these Recommended Local Favorites with Waterfront Dining in Havre de Grace
The best thing about eating out in Havre de Grace is how easy it is to turn dinner into a whole adventure. These are a few common recommendations I find myself suggesting to friends:
Pick up some Bomboy's chocolates for dessert! They are our absolute favorite Pro Tip: Don't want until after you eat, as they close usually around 5 - 6pm, but don't worry -- if you miss the chance to try the chocolate they have an Ice Cream shop right across the street!
Work up an appetite with a stroll down the Havre de Grace boardwalk (aka The Promenade). Pro Tip: In warmer months, we recommend making this a plan for after dinner. Great for a sunset view and cooler temperatures.
Keep an ear open for Live Music -- especially on the weekends. Follow your ear to spots like Coakley's Pub and the local American Legion (open to the public during all membership drive events). Pro Tip: Follow local businesses on social media for a better window into planned entertainment!
Pair Dinner with other local events in Havre de Grace (there is ALWAYS something happening in Havre de Grace). Pro Tip: Can't find an event you like? Make a stop at one of our many local breweries!
Take some time before dinner to do a little shopping in Havre de Grace! There are so many incredible shops downtown. Check out our Havre de Grace Shopping Guide for a review of the top 20 stores. If you are short on time, our shortlist includes 8 popular shops in HdG, but we will let you decide!
There’s something about having so many choices within walking distance—each spot with its own character and its own slice of the view.
Whether you’re chasing tropical vibes, hungry for river breezes and crab cakes, or just want a fast and friendly bite overlooking the water, I hope you love these favorites as much as I do. And if you spot me at the next table, say hello!
Comments