Outdoor dining at Rat's Restaurant in Hamilton Township(Stephanie Rizzolo | for NJ Advance Media)

Summers in New Jersey always feel too short, so spending time outside is crucial in making the most of the season. There’s something about al fresco dining that feels a touch more special than having a meal under a roof within four walls, but add the element of water, and you’ve really kicked things up a notch.

Not all waterfront dining options are created equal, so we’ve rounded up 21 places that we think nail the food and ambiance factors. Whether it’s a lake, river or the Atlantic Ocean, make it a point to stop by one or many of these before the season’s over.

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