waterfront dining--ray's? emory's? another?

Question

I'm (still) planning my Northwest road trip in early November, and now I'm looking for a fine place for dinner by a waterfront. I've read the merits of Ray's Boathouse by Puget Sound and Emory's Lake House by Silver Lake. Is one better than the other? Are there other eateries that do a better job with food? (In the end, I'd rather have great food over the great view.) And is the view even worthwhile after 8pm in November in the Pacific Northwest? (I normally have dinner after 8.) 
 
And--finally--what restaurant choices with waterfront views are there for the budget-minded? After a week at Nell's, Brasa's, Zoe's, Andaluca's and a couple of top-notch sushi places, I fear my budget will not survive Ray's or Emory's.
 
Sorry for so many questions in one message.

Answer

I would offer up Anthony's Bell Street Diner on the waterfront. Solid seafood with a nice water view without being expensive.
 
Another option would be drive to Alki Beach, park the car and walk along the shops and restaurants until something catches your eye or nose, most places along the beach are actually very reasonable and not a few do some very good seafood. Many of the places on Alki also do weekend breakfast/brunch so you would actually be able to see the water in daylight while you eat.

Answer

Thanks to all for your suggestions. Ray's Boathouse (or Emory's Lake House; I still haven't decided which) remains in my plans, but Ray's Cafe, Chinook's, or Bell Street Diner look like good alternatives if my budget takes a beating over the week.

Answer

Ray's Cafe bar has a late happy hour which is a screaming deal (10pm) if you can wait that long and don't want a fancy meal. Their salmon burgers are good, as are the seared ahi, mussels in curry sauce and clams. YUM. 

At 8pm you won't see much except for lights in Seattle. For that, i agree with other posters that Saltys or Palisades would be better. I'd choose Salty's, but it's not going to be an especially low budget meal.

Answer

Anthony's has a great view, but I'm always happily content with simply going to Ivar's, ordering some fish and chips and chowder and throwing french fries to the seagulls.

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waterfront dining--ray's? emory's? another?

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