There is perhaps no better way to end a day on the Treasure Coast than watching the Florida sky catch fire with color while enjoying a fresh meal. For residents of Vero Beach and our neighbors in Indian River, St. Lucie, and Martin counties, the “golden hour” isn’t just a time of day—it is a lifestyle.
A recent culinary roundup has highlighted ten specific destinations across the region where panoramic vistas meet mouthwatering fare. Whether you are looking for a casual dockside bite in Sebastian or an upscale evening in Stuart, here is your guide to dining with a view.
Places on the water or open landscape with large windows, outdoor seating and a spirited yet serene ambiance that are designed for evening fulfillment make ideal sunset restaurants.
Indian River County: Iconic River Views
For those of us right here in **Vero Beach**, the standout choice for sunset dining is **Riverside Cafe**. Located directly under the Barber Bridge, this establishment is a local staple known for its Old Florida-style atmosphere. Because it sits on the Indian River Lagoon and faces westward, it offers some of the most direct and spectacular sunset views in the county.
Beyond the scenery, Riverside is famous as the spot where country music star and Vero Beach native Jake Owen began his career; he is known to still pop in for impromptu performances when home. Diners can arrive by boat or car to enjoy menu favorites like bang bang shrimp, tuna nachos, and pan-seared snapper.
Just north in **Sebastian**, **Squid Lips** offers a unique experience with its River Deck and Overwater Grill. While many spots along Indian River Drive face east, the open-air design allows guests to witness the dramatic changing colors of the sky over the lagoon. The Sebastian location features an open-air house on stilts at the end of a long dock, and the adjacent River Deck pavilion provides ample covered outdoor seating. Seafood lovers flock here for the raw bar, poke bowls, and fried baskets. Notably, owner Harry “Buz” Underill also launched **Lip Lickers BBQ** across the street in 2025, adding to the culinary landscape of the area.
St. Lucie County: Inlet and Lake Dining
Heading south into St. Lucie County, **Chuck’s Seafood Restaurant** in **Fort Pierce** offers a slice of history. Nestled on the Fort Pierce Inlet, this venue has been serving Old Florida recipes since the 1960s. The restaurant features a deck with stellar views of moored sailboats and islands, making it a prime spot for sunset watching. The menu remains true to its roots with signature butterflied fried shrimp, conch fritters, and giant goblet cocktails.
In **Port St. Lucie**, the scene shifts to a more modern aesthetic at **Meating Street Steak & Seafood** in Tradition. Situated on Lake Tradition, this restaurant offers exquisite lakeside sunsets complemented by an elevated menu featuring wagyu meatballs, swordfish piccata, and an extensive wine list.
Martin County: From Upscale Marinas to Hidden Gems
For Vero Beach residents planning a day trip south, Martin County offers several distinct waterfront experiences:
Rounding out the list are **Chippers Restaurant & Bar** in **Palm City**, offering lakeside golf course views at the Martin Downs Country Club, and the **Outpost Bar & Grille** in **Indiantown**, a casual spot at Indianwood Golf Club known for its comfort food and screened outdoor dining.
Whether you stay local in Vero Beach or explore the wider Treasure Coast, these venues prove that dinner tastes better with a view.
