KeyTakeaways
- Beach House Grill at Chatham Bars Inn was named the top U.S. waterfront restaurant in the 2026 USA TODAY 10BEST awards.
- It offers casual seafood, a scenic patio overlooking Chatham Harbor, and unique experiences like a private clambake.
- Seasonal hours begin May 14 for lunch and June 9 for dinner; reservations are taken via the Dining Concierge.
- The award reflects a public‑voted, expert‑nominated ranking that highlights the nation’s best waterfront dining spots.
- The article also lists nine other standout waterfront eateries across the country.
Best Waterfront Restaurant Award USA TODAY’s annual 10BEST Readers’ Choice Awards recognize the finest travel, food, and lifestyle experiences through a public‑voting system that follows expert nominations. In the 2026 food category, which spotlighted top food tours, cruises, and markets, Beach House Grill earned the first‑place slot in the “Best Waterfront Restaurant” category. This accolade underscores its consistent popularity and the high esteem in which diners hold its ocean‑front setting.
About Beach House Grill
Located on the iconic Chatham Bars Inn property at 297 Shore Road, Chatham, Massachusetts, Beach House Grill occupies an outdoor patio that directly overlooks Chatham Harbor. As one of five dining venues at the inn, it provides a relaxed, family‑friendly atmosphere complemented by panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. Weekend live entertainment further enhances the lively yet comfortable vibe that makes it a preferred spot for both locals and tourists.
Menu Highlights and Beverages
The grill’s menu celebrates New England’s maritime heritage with classic local fare such as clam chowder and lobster rolls. Creative dishes include swordfish tacos, lobster nachos, and freshly harvested salads sourced from the inn’s eight‑acre farm. Signature beach‑themed cocktails—like the Cape Rose Sangria and the Daysailor—provide refreshing pairings for the sea breeze. During summer, guests can also arrange a private clambake on the beach, adding a distinctive communal dining experience.
Seasonal Availability and Reservations
Beach House Grill opens for the season on May 14 for lunch service and on June 9 for dinner. Lunch is served from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., while dinner runs from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. As of May 1, reservations are accepted exclusively through the Dining Concierge at 508‑945‑6732, ensuring a streamlined booking process for patrons seeking a guaranteed spot during the busy summer months.
Ranking Context and Voting Process
The 10BEST awards differentiate themselves by combining expert nominations with a nationwide public vote, guaranteeing that winning establishments reflect both industry professionalism and traveler enthusiasm. For the waterfront restaurant category, thousands of diners participated in the voting, and after a comprehensive review, Beach House Grill secured the top position among a competitive field of nominees from coast to coast.
Other Notable Waterfront Restaurants
USA TODAY’s full top‑10 ranking of waterfront restaurants includes additional standout venues: COASTAL in Orange Beach, Alabama; Hudson’s Seafood House on the Docks in Hilton Head Island, South Carolina; Sweetwater Marina & Riverdeck in Sweetwater, New Jersey; Lawson’s on the Creek in New Bern, North Carolina; Sibo Restaurant at Elk Cove Inn in Elk, California; Boatwerks Waterfront Restaurant in Holland, Michigan; Mersea in San Francisco, California; Waterbar Restaurant also in San Francisco; and The Strand House in Manhattan Beach, California. Each of these locations offers unique regional flavors and scenic settings.
Conclusion and Significance
Beach House Grill’s recognition as the nation’s premier waterfront restaurant not only highlights its exceptional cuisine, breathtaking vistas, and dedicated service but also exemplifies how thoughtful hospitality can create memorable summer experiences. For travelers seeking an authentic New England coastal dining adventure, a reservation at this celebrated eatery provides an ideal blend of fresh seafood, local farm ingredients, and the soothing ambience of Chatham Harbor, making it a must‑visit destination this season.