CENTRAL
Hamilton’s Grill Room
Lambertville
View: Glimpse the D&R Canal, which flows between the restaurant and the banks of the Delaware. The dozen seats in the aptly named Garden Room are the most coveted. Though lacking a water view, the courtyard garden, shaded by old sycamores, with a tinkling fountain, is magical at sunset. Food: Mediterranean, grilled seafood a specialty. Drink: BYO, or have a pre- or postprandial cocktail at the quirky, nautical-themed Boat House across the courtyard. 8 Coryell Street; 609-397-4343—Pat Tanner
Lambertville Station
Lambertville
View: Dine alfresco beside the D&R Canal at the bar and pergola-topped deck of this restored 19th-century train station. Canal views also available indoors. Starting in May, the separate Inn and newly expanded banquet facility will offer Sunday buffet brunch in a glass-enclosed room right on the Delaware. Food: American favorites, with surprises like elk ribeye and duck pot pie. Drink: Full bar, wine flights, choices include the restaurant’s private label Bridge Street Napa Chardonnay and Cabernet. 11 Bridge Street; 609-397-8300—PT
Patriot’s Crossing
Titusville
View: At the entrance to Washington Crossing State Park, Patriot’s Crossing offers 35 seats on a shaded deck overlooking the Delaware River and the D&R Canal. Food: Nachos, wings, burgers, ribs, sandwiches and a few entrées. Herb-crusted salmon, anyone? Drink: Full bar with 15 regional craft beers and 30 wines. Live music Friday and Saturday nights. 1339 River Road; 609-737-2780—PT
Rat’s (Grounds for Sculpture)
Hamilton
View: Dine beside a lily pond in a fairy-tale garden inspired by Monet’s paintings of Giverny. For snacks, try the gazebo, which overlooks a lotus pond further inside the sculpture park. Food: Highly rated French country cuisine with global influences. Drink: Full bar, patio happy hour, extensive wine list, including Rat’s signature series, produced by Unionville Vineyards. 16 Fairgrounds Road, 609-584-7800—PT
Riverside Coffee and Tea
Clinton
View: Gaze down at a waterfall on the South Branch of the Raritan River from the cozy stone porch. You can also see Clinton’s famous Red Mill. Bring Fido—the Riverside is dog-friendly. Food: Pastries, other baked goods, frozen yogurt. Drink: Non-alcoholic coffee concoctions, smoothies, teas. BYO. 51 Main Street, Clinton; 908-894-5808—MM
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