There is an indefinable charm to dining among the natural landscape of a picturesque town or under the night sky, with the sound of rushing water nearby. Just like the melodic tunes which set the mood in a restaurant or the romantic atmosphere created by soft, dim lighting, a proper outdoor dining experience can heighten a meal like nothing else. From the sun-kissed beaches of the West Coast and the rugged terrain of the mountainous regions, to the laid-back waterfront destinations which pepper the Gulf Coast, here are some of the nation’s most scenic restaurants offering charming outdoor spaces and unique dining pleasures.

Snowmass Village, CO

In Aspen, there are countless restaurants to consider which offer breathtaking views at every turn, but venture to Snowmass Village for a particularly special one boasting premium slopeside views and modern Mexican cuisine. Venga Vega, helmed by internationally-renowned chef Richard Sandoval, sits on the edge of the Snowmass Village mall, rendering remarkable views of the mountains and the running gondolas which travel from the mall to the base village below. The restaurant is open during winter and summer seasons, and is "ski-in, ski-out" accessible from the Fanny Hill ski slope. The sprawling space, fitted with lounge seating, fire pits and an outdoor bar, is a hot spot among visitors and locals alike looking to kick back with handcrafted margs and cheesy enchiladas after a day of outdoor activities.

New Orleans

Located on the fifth floor of the new Four Seasons Hotel in New Orleans, Chemin à la Mer offers sweeping views of the Mississippi River from its airy terrace. The name, which translates to "pathway to the sea" in French, is appropriate, as the swanky restaurant offers a unique perspective of the crescent bend for which the city is known. The menu draws inspiration from chef Donald Link’s Louisiana heritage and incorporates classic French cooking techniques in dishes like cast iron-seared coulotte and cote de boeuf for two, carved tableside. A grand oyster bar showcases bounty from the Gulf, including fresh oysters, steamed Louisiana shrimp and fish ceviches — all best enjoyed over the sounds of the flowing river below.

Las Vegas

Witnessing the hypnotic dance of Bellagio’s iconic fountains never ceases to amaze, but few places offer a better view of the attraction than LAGO. The contemporary, Milan-inspired Italian restaurant by James Beard Award-winning chef Julian Serrano offers exclusive patio seating overlooking the world-famous fountains and surrounding Las Vegas strip. The menu, made up of Italian tapas, is substantial, and pastas, pizettas and gems of the sea are represented well. Find classics like linguine and clams and four cheese lasagna with beef bolognese, plus heartier plates like osso buco.