There’s something special about dining outdoors during a North Idaho summer. Whether you’re overlooking the sparkling waters of Lake Pend Oreille, taking in mountain vistas, or enjoying a quiet meal tucked along the river, the scenery has a way of making every bite taste even better.
As August brings long evenings and warm days, it’s the perfect time to explore some of the area’s most scenic restaurants. From mountaintop dining to waterfront patios, these local favorites offer unforgettable views to pair with memorable meals.
Mountaintop Dining
The Nest at Sky House
Perched high above Sandpoint at Schweitzer Mountain Resort, The Nest offers panoramic views of Lake Pend Oreille and the surrounding mountain ranges. Whether you arrive after a scenic chairlift ride, a morning hike, or simply drive up for dinner, the breathtaking backdrop makes every meal feel like a special occasion.
10000 Schweitzer Mountain Rd.
schweitzer.com
Lakeside Favorites
Spuds Waterfront Grill
A longtime Sandpoint favorite, Spuds serves casual comfort food with front-row seats to the lake. Relax on the patio, watch boats drift through the marina, and soak in one of the area’s most iconic waterfront settings.
102 N. First Ave.
spudswaterfrontgrill.com
Barrel 33
Nestled along Sand Creek, Barrel 33 combines elevated comfort food with a peaceful waterside atmosphere. The outdoor seating offers a relaxing place to enjoy lunch, dinner, or a glass of wine while watching kayakers and paddleboarders glide by.
100 N. First Ave.
barrel33.com
The Bank
Located in the heart of downtown Sandpoint, The Bank’s rooftop seating provides a unique perspective of the city while keeping you within walking distance of local shops, galleries, and the waterfront. It’s an ideal stop after an afternoon exploring downtown.
105 Cedar St.
thebanksandpoint.com
Scenic Destinations Worth the Drive
The Float House
Just east of Sandpoint in Hope, The Float House delivers laid-back lakeside dining with spectacular views of Lake Pend Oreille. The drive alone is worth the trip, and the relaxed atmosphere makes it easy to linger over lunch or dinner.
47394 ID-200, Hope, ID
thefloathouseidaho.com
Pearls on the Lake
Known for its beautiful waterfront setting, Pearls on the Lake pairs elegant dining with sweeping lake views. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a sunset meal, it’s a destination that showcases the beauty of North Idaho.
6706 Highway 200, Hope, ID
www.pearlsonthelake.com
Old Ice House Pizzeria
A local favorite for pizza lovers, Old Ice House offers delicious food in a welcoming atmosphere near the lake. It’s the perfect stop after a day spent exploring Hope or the eastern shores of Lake Pend Oreille.
325 Wellington Place, Hope, ID 83836
oldicehousepizzeria.com
A Local Hidden Gem
Blue Heron Café
Sometimes the best views come with a slower pace. Blue Heron Café offers a cozy atmosphere surrounded by North Idaho’s natural beauty, making it a favorite stop for breakfast or lunch before heading out to explore the area.
111 Main St., Laclede, ID 83841
blueheroncafeidaho.com
No matter where you choose to dine, one thing is certain: the views around Sandpoint have a way of slowing you down and reminding you why so many people choose to call this remarkable place home. So grab a friend, order your favorite meal, and savor one more North Idaho sunset before summer slips into fall.
Make A Day Of It
Morning
Start your day with a scenic drive up Schweitzer Mountain. Take a chairlift ride, enjoy a leisurely hike, or simply soak in the panoramic views of Lake Pend Oreille from the summit.Lunch
Grab a table at The Nest at Sky House for mountaintop dining, or head back to town for lunch on the waterfront at Spuds Waterfront Grill or along Sand Creek at Barrel 33.Afternoon
Spend a few hours browsing the unique boutiques and galleries downtown, stroll the Sand Creek Boardwalk, rent a paddleboard, or relax at City Beach.Evening
Take a leisurely drive east along the lake to Hope and enjoy dinner at The Float House, Pearls on the Lake, or Old Ice House Pizzeria while watching the sun dip behind the Cabinet Mountains.Local Tip: August is one of the busiest months for patio dining. Arriving 30 to 45 minutes before peak dinner hours often means the best seats—and the best views.