Summer is fast approaching, thus making eating outside a must. Nothing is more liberating and relaxing than enjoying the nice weather and taking in the natural ambience. But let’s be honest, just because a restaurant has an outdoor space, doesn’t mean that it’s a perfect patio. So to spare you any mishaps, check out these 15 patios across the United States to eat and drink in the aire libre. We’d love to hear from you: What is your favorite restaurant patio for food or libations with friends?
Dallas
This gastropub with too many delicious dishes to count is an obvious choice for food and atmosphere as it faces Klyde Warren Park and the Dallas Art District.
This retro dive bar rocks a large backyard patio with picnic tables and live music on weekends.
This chic terrace overlooking Turtle Creek is a major “do” for some brunch on the patio.
New York City
The Standard Hotel High Line NYC
We love The Standard Hotel in the Meatpacking District, which satisfies any mood with four amazing outdoor experiences: the cozy Biergarten on the main floor; the gorgeous Top of the Standard rooftop restaurant; the adjacent cool Le Bain rooftop bar; and The Standard Plaza, the only public square in Lower Manhattan.
Looking for a clean break? Pure Food and Wine offers delectable raw, organic, and vegan fare with a pretty patio to unwind.
Los Angeles
This lovely patio with olive trees and natural greenery is a no-brainer to take in one of the best burgers in town.
If all backyards looked like this, no one would ever leave home. This poolside dining spot is the perfect escape from busy city life.
Relax and enjoy your favorite cocktail while gazing at the twinkling lights of Los Angeles… or enjoy the immediate scenery of a celebrity or two.
Venice, Calif.
A spot on the serene patio, with exposed brick and wood paneling, is the perfect locale to enjoy tasty thin crust pizza.
San Francisco
San Francisco is pretty much sweater weather year-round, but the Foreign Cinema’s patio is always warm and the daily menu is always spontaneously delicious.
Washington, D.C.
Poste’s patio is home to a beautiful vegetable and herb garden, which the chef uses to create some of his best homegrown dishes.
Atlanta
Rated one of the best restaurants in Atlanta, it also has a pretty courtyard and gorgeous patio overlooking the Atlanta skyline. If you forgo the patio and opt for inside, make sure to get a view of Todd Murphy’s magnificent painting.
New Orleans
Enjoy this little piece of patio heaven and flavorful contemporary Louisiana cuisine located in the French Quarter.
Miami
After your long and happy day on the beach, go to this delightful and buzzing Italian restaurant in South Beach.
Martha’s Vineyard, Mass.
The Beach Plum patio overlooks the harbor of Menemsha. This is the same location where “Jaws” was filmed, but the only music that you’ll be hearing is the sweet sound of the Menemsha bell buoy bouncing on the waves. President Obama is a frequent patron here.
